The iShield Key 2 has a user-friendly touch contact at the top, making it particularly easy to use. Copyright: Swissbit.

Universally applicable security key combines phishing-resistant authentication with physical access protection

Swissbit presents the iShield Key 2, the next generation of its hardware-based authentication solutions. Equipped with an NXP chip, the new product family offers phishing-proof authentication for companies and public authorities worldwide with numerous models and feature sets. The iShield Key 2 series is based on the FIDO2 standard and supports passwordless authentication with a capacity of up to 300 passkeys. The Pro versions extend the functionality with one-time passwords according to HOTP and TOTP as well as PIV for integration into smartcard-based systems. The iShield Key 2 MIFARE variant offers a unique selling point, combining digital authentication with physical access protection in a single device – for example, for access control to buildings or for secure printing environments. A FIPS 140-3 Level 3-certified version is also available for particularly security-critical applications. All models feature a robust, slim, industrial-grade housing and are manufactured at Swissbit’s site in Berlin.

Comprehensive portfolio, maximum flexibility

The iShield Key 2 is available with USB-C at market launch, with USB-A variants planned for the end of the second quarter of 2025. All versions support NFC for contactless use. The product portfolio is divided into three main lines: iShield Key 2, iShield Key 2 MIFARE and iShield Key 2 FIPS. Each of these lines is available as a pure FIDO2 version and as an extended Pro variant with support for HOTP, TOTP and PIV. This allows companies to select the right solution for their specific requirements and use cases.

Physical access control and more

Thanks to chip technology from NXP, the iShield Key 2 MIFARE DESFire EV3 supports true hybrid applications – for example, for use in time management systems, payment applications or as an ID solution on company premises or campuses. In addition, further access technologies such as HID SEOS or LEGIC advant / LEGIC neon can be integrated as an option to continue using existing infrastructures.

Security and certifications

All models in the iShield Key 2 series are FIDO-certified and support OpenSC for open smart card integration. For applications with strict compliance requirements, the FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certified version ensures compliance with the highest security standards. Variants with Enterprise Attestation are also available, allowing organisations to restrict access to verified, company-owned security keys.

Overview of the new iShield Key 2 series from Swissbit. Models with Enterprise Attestation are also available. Copyright: Swissbit.

Future-proof thanks to update function

All models can be updated remotely via secure channels – for firmware updates or retrofitting additional applications, for example. This ensures that the iShield Key 2 is always up to date, even during operation.

‘With the iShield Key 2, we offer a universal security key that both meets the growing importance of digital identities and sets new standards in physical access control,’ says Claus Gründel, General Manager Security Solutions at Swissbit. ’The product range offers our customers maximum flexibility and control over their security infrastructure.’