Quick Summary
The Yubico YubiKey 5Ci is a two factor authentication security key with dual connectors for Lightning and USB-C. It is designed for logging in with a tap and for protecting online accounts with more than a password.
This multi protocol hardware authenticator supports FIDO U2F, FIDO2, Yubico OTP, OATH TOTP, OATH HOTP, Smart Card (PIV), OpenPGP and challenge response capability.
Who It Is Best For
This key suits buyers who want hardware based authentication for online accounts and apps, and who need a device with both Lightning and USB-C connectors. It is also relevant if you want to use it with iOS mobile apps or with USB-C connections.
Key Details
| Detail | Verified information and buyer relevance |
|---|---|
| Product | Yubico YubiKey 5Ci, a two factor authentication security key. |
| Connectors | Dual connectors for Lightning and USB-C ports, which affects which devices and ports it can be used with. |
| Authentication type | Multi protocol hardware authenticator for strong hardware based authentication. |
| Supported protocols | FIDO U2F, FIDO2, Yubico OTP, OATH TOTP, OATH HOTP, Smart Card (PIV), OpenPGP and challenge response capability. |
| App support | Described as supporting thousands of apps and protecting their accounts. |
| Lightning compatibility note | The Lightning connector is described as currently compatible with a limited number of applications. |
Why Buyers Choose It
- Dual Lightning and USB-C connectors give you a single key for different port types.
- Support for multiple authentication protocols broadens the kinds of accounts and apps it can be used with.
- The tap-based login approach is geared towards faster access than typing a password alone.
What To Know Before You Buy
Check that your device has a Lightning or USB-C port before ordering. The Lightning connector is only described as working with a limited number of applications, so compatibility should be reviewed carefully for your intended use.
Confirm that the account or app you want to protect supports the relevant authentication protocol. This key is aimed at buyers who want to add hardware based protection rather than rely on a password alone.
Common Buyer Questions
Which devices can it connect to?
It has Lightning and USB-C connectors, so the key is intended for use with devices that use one of those port types.
What kinds of authentication does it support?
It supports FIDO U2F, FIDO2, Yubico OTP, OATH TOTP, OATH HOTP, Smart Card (PIV), OpenPGP and challenge response capability.
Is Lightning compatibility universal?
No. The Lightning connector is described as currently compatible with a limited number of applications, so check your specific app first.
Final Buying View
The Yubico YubiKey 5Ci is a dual-connector security key for buyers who want hardware based two factor authentication on Lightning or USB-C devices. Confirm the connector type and your app compatibility before choosing it.
