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Security Key as Hardware Token for RWTH Single Sign-On (WebAuthn/FIDO2)

guide

The hardware token for RWTH Single Sign-On (WebAuthn/FIDO2) is used with a physical (hardware) security key by default. Information on these security keys can be found here.
To set up this token, both part of the setup in the token manager and verification outside the token manager must be carried out.

1. Requirements for the use of the hardware token

You have a hardware security key (hardware token).
- Compatible with both token types “Hardware token for VPN and RWTH Single Sign-On (HOTP)” and “Hardware token for RWTH Single Sign-On (WebAuthn/FIDO2)” are e.g. YubiKeys, Nitrokeys (Pro 2 and 3) and selected Feitian Keys.
- To set up this token, the security key must at least support the WebAuthn/FIDO2 protocol.

2. Configuration in the Tokenmanager

Video tutorial on token setup for the RWTH Single Sign-On.

Step 1
Insert your security key into the USB slot of your PC.

Step 2
Go to the Token Manager.

Step 3
Log in with RWTH Single Sign-On.

Step 4
Click on the blue Create button at the bottom left of the Token Manager.

Screenshot of the IDM self-service, the ‘Tokenmanager (MFA)’ is selected. The ‘Create’ button is located at the bottom of the page. Existing token procedures may be listed in a table above it.

Step 5
Choose Hardware Token for RWTH Single Sign-On (WebAuthn/FIDO2).

Screenshot for selecting the type of token. The different types are arranged in a table. “Hardware token for RWTH” is in the second place. This option must be selected, the ‘Next’ button is at the bottom of the page.

Step 6
Click on Next.

Step 7
Enter a unique description for the security key (e.g. My hardware key). This helps you to differentiate between tokens, especially if you have created several tokens.

Screenshot of the page for finalising the key. A name for the key must be assigned under ‘Description’. The ‘Create’ button is located directly underneath.

Step 8
Click on Create.

Step 9
Start the verification process for the hardware token in the credential manager or browser by clicking on Register.

Screenshot of the page for verifying the token. The ‘Register’ button is located below the information field.

3. Verification outside the Token Manager

By clicking on Register, you leave the Token Manager and must now confirm the token.
You can either carry out the verification with a Credential Manager or do this in the browser on your end device. How you proceed is up to you, but may vary depending on the end device.
The following instructions provide examples of verification:

Verification using Windows credential manager

Step 1
To set up your hardware token, please follow the on-screen instructions.

Screenshot of the ‘Windows-Sicherheit’ window. The ‘OK’ button is located at the end of the pop-up.

Step 2
If the data is correct, confirm with OK.

Screenshot of the ‘Windows-Sicherheit’ window. The ‘OK’ button is located at the end of the pop-up.

Step 3
Whether a PIN is required depends on whether and how the hardware key was previously set up.
If you are prompted to enter your PIN, enter the secure PIN you chose previously.

Screenshot of the ‘Windows Security’ window, which prompts you to enter your PIN. The ‘OK’ button is located at the end of the pop-up.

Step 4
If the data is correct, confirm with OK.

Screenshot of the ‘Windows Security’ window, which prompts you to activate the security key.

Step 5
Then follow the instructions on the screen and tap the security key with your hand.
On the Yubikey, tap the circular golden recess with the Y on it.

If your operating system does not have its own credential manager, such as that of Windows, the tokens are set up by your web browser.

Verification using Firefox

Step 1
Do not anonymize your data in the first step, otherwise the token setup will fail:

Screenshot showing the setup pop-up. Proceed is located at the end of the pop-up.

Step 2
Then click on Proceed.

Step 3
The hardware key can now be connected to the system.
Whether a PIN is required depends on whether and how the hardware key was previously set up.
If you are prompted to enter a PIN, enter the secure PIN you have chosen yourself.

Screenshot of the pop-up window that prompts you to enter your PIN. The ‘sign in’ button is located at the end of the pop-up.

Step 4
Then click on Sign in.

Step 5
Complete the process by tapping the security key.
On the Yubikey, tap the circular golden recess with the Y on it.

Screenshot of the pop-up window that prompts you to activate the security key.

Verification using Chrome

Step 1
If there is no key connected to the system yet, you will be asked for the type of device to be used. Please select USB security key:

Screenshot of the ‘Create passkey’ window. The ‘USB security key’ button is the second selection option. Screenshot of the ‘Create passkey’ window. The ‘USB security key’ button is the second selection option.