Memory is a strange thing and works in stranger ways. We tend to remember the date, day, and even time of some of the special occasions or things that characterize our loved ones. Unfortunately, passwords are not on that list. For apps and websites, password recovery is relatively easy. However, for devices, especially in business environments, recovery isn’t always straightforward. Hence, it’s human to be grateful to Microsoft for Windows Hello.
Traditional device scenarios forced users to choose easy-to-guess or weak passwords. For complex passwords, the tendency to write them down was prevalent. Adopting the same password for different apps and websites is, in fact, still a common practice. Strong support for this argument comes from a survey conducted on IT professionals—30%1 of them admitted to having experienced a password-related data breach.
Windows Hello, a pioneering authentication system by Microsoft, redefines how users access their devices and applications. In this blog, we will get into Windows Hello for Business and how organizations can use a Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution to manage Windows Hello for Business.
What is Windows Hello?
Windows Hello is a feature that leverages biometric and multifactor authentication (MFA) to grant users access to their devices, data, applications, and services. Whether facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or iris detection, Windows Hello empowers users to authenticate effortlessly, eliminating the need to remember complex passwords. The feature is available from Windows 10 onward.
The sign-in mechanism of Windows Hello serves as an alternative to passwords. It is generally regarded as a more user-friendly, secure, and dependable way to access crucial devices and data than the conventional method of logging in with passwords.
Windows Hello & FIDO (Fast IDentity Online)
With password authentication methodologies like FIDO set to rule the future, Windows Hello for Business is expected to play a significant role. Incorporating the FIDO specification enables Microsoft’s partners to offer security keys, adding an extra layer of protection for signing in through Windows Hello.
The FIDO specification, established in 2014 by the FIDO Alliance comprising over 250 companies, originated from a founding group consisting of PayPal, Lenovo, Nok Nok Labs, Validity Sensors, Infineon, and Agnitio. FIDO authentication technology is currently integrated into numerous devices, as stated by the alliance.
Additionally, Microsoft has endorsed the most recent iteration of the security protocol, FIDO2, enabling users to utilize standards-based devices like USB security keys for heightened security measures when logging into Microsoft accounts.
How Windows Hello for Business Works (and Its Benefits)
Windows Hello isn’t just another authentication method; it’s a sophisticated system that revolutionizes how users interact with their devices and applications. Windows Hello for Business extends the capabilities of Windows Hello by offering enterprise-level security and management features, such as device attestation, certificate-based authentication, and conditional access policies. Let’s look into its core elements and their innate benefits.
Biometric Authentication
At the heart of Windows Hello for Business lies biometric authentication, a cutting-edge technology that verifies a user’s identity based on unique physical characteristics. Whether it’s facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or iris detection, biometric authentication offers a level of security unparalleled by traditional password-based systems.
Facial Recognition
Facial recognition technology analyzes distinctive facial features, such as the arrangement of eyes, nose, and mouth, to create a unique biometric profile for each user. Windows Hello leverages advanced algorithms to capture and authenticate facial data, ensuring accuracy and reliability even in varying lighting conditions.
Fingerprint Scanning
Fingerprint scanning transforms the unique patterns on an individual’s fingertips into digital signatures for authentication. Windows Hello for Business utilizes state-of-the-art fingerprint sensors to capture and match fingerprint data with unparalleled precision, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking a seamless and secure authentication experience.
Iris Detection
Iris detection takes biometric authentication to the next level by analyzing the intricate patterns of the iris, the colored part of the eye. Windows Hello for Business employs specialized cameras to capture high-resolution images of the iris, enabling swift and accurate authentication while maintaining user privacy.
Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
In addition to biometric authentication, Windows Hello for Business incorporates multifactor authentication (MFA) to fortify security further. MFA combines two or more independent factors, such as something you know (e.g., a PIN) and something you are (e.g., biometric data), to verify a user’s identity, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
PIN Authentication
Windows Hello for Business allows users to set up a personal identification number (PIN) as an additional authentication factor. Unlike traditional passwords, PINs are tied to specific devices and are less susceptible to phishing attacks or brute-force cracking, enhancing security without sacrificing convenience.
Keyless Convenience
Gone are the days of fumbling with passwords or typing lengthy passphrases. With Windows Hello, users can authenticate seamlessly without needing physical keys or tokens, streamlining the authentication process and boosting productivity.
Advanced Security Features
Windows Hello incorporates advanced security features to safeguard user data and privacy. Windows Hello adheres to stringent security standards to thwart potential threats and vulnerabilities, from encrypted biometric data storage to secure handshake protocols.
Controlling Windows Hello for Business Using UEM
Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) plays a critical role in the modern workplace, enabling businesses to manage and secure various endpoints, including those utilizing authentication via Windows Hello for Business.
A UEM solution like Scalefusion enables IT admins to set up Windows Hello configurations and deploy them to managed Windows 10 & 11 devices. Leveraging Microsoft Entra joined devices supported by Scalefusion, administrators can enhance device security by configuring Windows Hello settings.
Some critical prerequisites to control Windows Hello settings on managed devices from the Scalefusion dashboard are:
- The device must be Windows 10 (or Windows 11)
- Admin must log into the dashboard using O365 credentials
- Entra ID setup must be complete
- The device should be enrolled using Entra ID
Once the above parameters are met, admins can start managing Windows Hello configuration.
Configure Windows Hello for Business Using Scalefusion
Scalefusion lets admins configure Windows Hello for Business settings based on organizational requirements. To begin with, admins must enable Windows Hello on the Scalefusion dashboard. Another option is enabling Windows Hello only on devices with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip.
Additionally, admins can choose to enable or disable biometric authentication. PIN settings can be configured similarly to how passcode policies are set from the Scalefusion dashboard. The settings include PIN complexity (length, digits, lowercase, uppercase, special characters), PIN expiration, and PIN history.
Connect with our experts to schedule a demo and learn more about how Scalefusion UEM can help configure Windows Hello for Business. Get started today with a 14-day free trial.
Reference:
1. GoodFirms
FAQ
1. What is Windows Hello?
Windows Hello is a biometric authentication feature in Windows 10 that allows users to log in securely using facial recognition, fingerprint, or iris scan. It replaces traditional password-based logins, offering convenience and enhanced security by utilizing unique physical attributes for user identification.
2. How do I enable Windows Hello?
To enable Windows Hello, go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Under Windows Hello, select Set up to configure facial recognition, fingerprint, or PIN login. Ensure your device supports compatible hardware like a webcam or fingerprint scanner for facial or fingerprint recognition.
3. Is Windows Hello necessary?
Windows Hello provides convenient and secure authentication methods like facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or PIN. While not strictly necessary, it enhances security and streamlines user access to Windows devices, offering an extra layer of protection beyond traditional passwords.
4. How safe is Windows Hello?
Windows Hello offers strong security by using biometric authentication or PINs to sign in to your Windows devices. It utilizes facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or iris scanning, which are difficult to spoof. However, as with any security measure, it’s essential to use a strong PIN and ensure your device’s software is current.
