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IMSS  /  Services  /  Information Security  /  Duo MFA  /  Authentication Methods  /  Purchase a YubiKey

Which YubiKey should I purchase

If you plan on purchasing a YubiKey to use at Caltech, it's important that you purchase the right model. The most important factors to consider are protocol support and USB connectivity (USB-A vs USB-C).

Protocol Support

Some YubiKey devices are considered "multi-protocol" because they support both OTP and FIDO protocols. Other models support only FIDO. If you will be using the YubiKey at Caltech, you may encounter systems or applications that require OTP support. IMSS recommends purchasing a YubiKey 5 Series device which includes OTP support.

USB Connectivity

Some YubiKey devices are designed for the older/larger USB-A ports, while others are designed for the newer/smaller USB-C ports. Select a YubiKey that will fit in the USB ports your computer has.

Recommendation

Choose a "YubiKey 5 Series" for the broadest protocol support.

For USB-A, IMSS recommends the YubiKey 5 NFC:
https://www.yubico.com/product/yubikey-5-series/yubikey-5-nfc/

For USB-C, IMSS recommends the YubiKey 5C NFC:
https://www.yubico.com/product/yubikey-5-series/yubikey-5c-nfc/