FIDO U2F and FIDO2 are supported on various versions of Windows operating systems, particularly those with integrated support for modern authentication methods. Below is a breakdown of which Windows versions support FIDO and FIDO2:
FIDO U2F (FIDO Universal 2nd Factor):
FIDO U2F can be supported on Windows systems that have compatible browsers (like Google Chrome, Firefox, or Edge), as these browsers handle the U2F authentication process.
- Windows 7: U2F is supported via web browsers like Chrome or Firefox, but it requires external software or drivers.
- Windows 8/8.1: U2F is supported through compatible browsers, similar to Windows 7.
- Windows 10: Full U2F support through compatible browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. It also benefits from broader system support for secure authentication.
FIDO2:
FIDO2 (which includes passwordless login and multi-factor authentication) has broader system-level support, especially in newer versions of Windows. Windows Hello, Microsoft's biometric authentication system, is built on the FIDO2 framework and is integrated into newer versions of Windows.
Summary:
- FIDO U2F: Supported on Windows 7 and later, mainly through web browsers.
- FIDO2: Fully supported on Windows 10 and Windows 11, integrated into Windows Hello for passwordless and multi-factor authentication.
For optimal FIDO2 support, Windows 10 and Windows 11 provide the best experience with full system and browser compatibility.