Facebook security key aims to keep hackers out of your account

It is entirely optional, designed as an extra layer of protection for users beyond the password

Security keys make the two-factor authentication process a little slicker (Reuters)

Facebook has added an extra layer of protection to the site by introducing support for security keys.

You can now authenticate your login information by tapping a piece of hardware that plugs into your computer’s USB drive. It clips to your keyring too, so you can carry it around with you everywhere.

A form of two-factor authentication, security keys are entirely optional, designed as an extra layer of protection for users, beyond the password.

Two-factor authentication typically involves the site or service you’re logging in to sending you a code via SMS, which you have to wait for and then enter.

A security key streamlines the process, as it’s quicker to plug a USB stick into your machine than it is to wait for a message and copy it, especially if you have patchy signal. It also cuts out any risk of a phishing attack.

If you do opt to use one, you can rest safely knowing that even if a hacker managed to steal your login details, they wouldn’t be able to access your account without the key.

Facebook has become the first major social network to support security keys, though they’re already available to Google, Dropbox and GitHub users.

You can purchase a Yubico security key from £16.99 at Amazon.