This is the final part of a three-part blog series that discusses the challenges with passwords in the modern security landscape and how Okta FastPass can help. 

In part one of this three-part series, we discussed the challenges of managing passwords in the modern security landscape. In part two, we talked about how FastPass can help address these challenges. In this final post, we’ll discuss how you can transition your organization to FastPass. 

Switching from lower factor assurance systems such as SMS and voice MFA to Okta FastPass is a critical upgrade for your organization's security posture. Here are the best practices for organizations to consider. 

Please note that these are generic steps, and it's recommended that you speak with your Customer Success Manager or Technical Account Manager (TAM) to determine your Okta FastPass eligibility and upgrade approach. 

Phase 1: Prepare and Plan

• Enable Okta Identity Engine (OIE): FastPass requires the Okta Identity Engine's modern policy framework.
• Update Okta Verify: Ensure users have the latest version of the Okta Verify app on their devices.
• Create a Pilot Group: To test the process, start with a small, security-aware group (like your IT team).
• Communicate Clearly: Inform your pilot group about the change, explaining the security benefits and new user experience.

Phase 2: Implement and Configure

Review this link for more information on how to configure Okta FastPass

• Enable Okta Verify and FastPass: In the Okta Admin Console, enable Okta Verify and turn on the FastPass feature for all device platforms.
• Configure Enrollment Policy: Create a new Authenticator Enrollment Policy for your pilot group, requiring them to enroll in Okta Verify.
• Create a Dedicated Authentication Policy: Build a new authentication policy for your pilot group that requires a phishing-resistant authenticator. This will force them to use FastPass.
• Enforce Biometrics (Optional): Strengthen security further by requiring biometrics or a PIN with FastPass.

Phase 3: Rollout and Finalize

• Expand in Phases: Gradually add more users to the FastPass group as the pilot proves successful.
• Provide Support: Ensure your help desk is ready to assist with any questions.

Review the Launch Kit for Admins

• Monitor adoption: Track FastPass adoption and, once the migration is complete

Note: Speak to your Customer Success Manager (CSM) about how to track FastPass adoption

• Plan the Decommission of other factors: Evaluate the usage of low assurance factors (SMS/Voice) and conduct an impact analysis on your business. Create a phase-wise plan to deactivate SMS and voice authenticators and to fully remove these vulnerable methods from your environment. 

Note: Speak to your Customer Success Manager (CSM) about the best practice approach to deactivating SMS and Voice authenticators in your environment. 

The evolution of cyber threats demands an evolution in our defenses. Relying on authentication factors that are vulnerable to phishing is no longer sustainable. By proactively embracing phishing-resistant methods, organizations can build a more secure foundation, protect their valuable assets, and ensure their place in a digitally transforming world. This isn't just an IT upgrade; it's a strategic imperative for long-term resilience and trust.

The Benefits of Adopting Okta FastPass 

Security & Compliance

• Phishing Resistance: FastPass is designed to be highly resistant to phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks. It uses a cryptographic process to bind the authentication to a specific, legitimate domain, ensuring that an authentication attempt on a fake site will automatically fail.
• Stronger Device Posture: FastPass collects "rich device context," which includes information about the device's security status, such as its operating system version, disk encryption status, and whether it's jailbroken or rooted. This allows administrators to create policies that only grant access to compliant devices.
• Adherence to High Standards: FastPass helps organizations meet stringent security and compliance frameworks, including NIST 800-63B Authentication Assurance Level 3 (AAL3), which is crucial for organizations in highly regulated industries and government sectors.
• Defense in Depth: FastPass can integrate with third-party security tools like CrowdStrike to leverage their risk signals and make more informed, dynamic access decisions, strengthening a Zero Trust security model.

Operational Agility

• Reduced Help Desk Costs: By providing a passwordless login experience, FastPass drastically reduces the number of password-related support tickets. Okta's own internal IT team saw a 98% reduction in password reset tickets after deploying FastPass.
• Simplified Onboarding: The enrollment process is streamlined and self-service, allowing new users to enroll their devices as part of their first login. This reduces the time and effort required to get new employees productive.
• Automated Security Management: FastPass automatically verifies device posture with every login, eliminating the need for manual checks and ensuring all access attempts meet security policies without administrative overhead.

User Experience

• Seamless, Passwordless Access: FastPass enables one-touch, passwordless sign-ins using the device's native biometrics (like Face ID, Windows Hello, or Touch ID). This removes login friction and provides a consistent, fast, and secure experience across all devices and platforms.
• Consistent Across Platforms: It provides a unified and user-friendly authentication experience for employees on any supported platform, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
• Increased Productivity: By eliminating the need to remember and type passwords, or to manually approve push notifications, FastPass saves employees valuable time, allowing them to get to their work faster.