# Canokey

> hardware authentication device

**Wikidata**: [Q117005131](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q117005131)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/canokey

## Summary
Canokey is a hardware authentication device that functions as a security token for accessing electronically restricted resources. It is a small dongle that attaches to computers or other electronic devices to provide secure authentication. The device is open-source under the Apache Software License 2.0 and has evolved through multiple stable versions since its initial release.

## Key Facts
- Canokey is classified as a security token and is a subclass of dongle devices
- The device operates under the Apache Software License 2.0
- Current stable version is 3.0.3, released on March 25, 2025
- Official website is located at https://www.canokeys.org/
- Source code is available on GitHub at https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core
- Canokey is copyrighted intellectual property
- The device is described on Wikidata as a "hardware authentication device"

## FAQs
### Q: What is Canokey used for?
A: Canokey is a hardware authentication device that provides secure access to electronically restricted resources by functioning as a security token that attaches to computers or other electronic devices.

### Q: Is Canokey open source?
A: Yes, Canokey is open source and operates under the Apache Software License 2.0, with its source code available on GitHub.

### Q: What is the latest version of Canokey?
A: The current stable version of Canokey is 3.0.3, released on March 25, 2025.

## Why It Matters
Canokey represents an important advancement in hardware-based authentication security, providing users with a physical device that enhances protection against unauthorized access to digital resources. As cyber threats continue to evolve, hardware authentication tokens like Canokey offer a critical layer of security that complements software-based authentication methods. The device addresses the growing need for robust, multi-factor authentication in an era where password breaches and phishing attacks are increasingly common. By providing a tangible, portable security solution that users can physically control, Canokey helps organizations and individuals implement stronger security protocols without relying solely on potentially vulnerable software-based systems. Its open-source nature also promotes transparency and community-driven security improvements, making it a valuable tool in the broader ecosystem of cybersecurity solutions.

## Notable For
- Open-source hardware authentication device under Apache Software License 2.0
- Multiple stable version releases with continuous development since initial launch
- Physical security token design that provides hardware-based authentication
- Active GitHub repository with community development and support
- Copyrighted intellectual property with documented version history

## Body
### Technical Classification
Canokey is classified as a security token, which is defined as a peripheral device used to gain access to electronically restricted resources. It falls under the broader category of dongles, which are small pieces of hardware that attach to computers or other electronic devices.

### Development History
The device has undergone significant development with multiple stable versions released over time. Version 1.5.2 was released on December 26, 2021, followed by version 1.6.0 on March 29, 2022, and version 1.6.2 on October 15, 2022. Major version 2.0.0 launched on October 30, 2023, with subsequent updates including version 2.0.1 on November 5, 2023, version 3.0.0 on December 13, 2024, version 3.0.2 on February 19, 2025, and the current stable version 3.0.3 on March 25, 2025.

### Licensing and Distribution
Canokey operates under the Apache Software License 2.0, making it open-source software that allows for modification and redistribution under specific terms. The device's source code is maintained in a public GitHub repository at https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core, promoting transparency and community involvement in its development.

### Documentation and Support
The official website at https://www.canokeys.org/ serves as the primary information hub for users and developers. The device's properties and specifications are documented on Wikidata, where it is described as a "hardware authentication device," providing a standardized reference for the technology across various platforms and applications.

## References

1. [Release 1.5.2. 2021](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/1.5.2)
2. [Release 1.6.0. 2022](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/1.6.0)
3. [Release 1.6.2. 2022](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/1.6.2)
4. [Release 2.0.0. 2023](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/2.0.0)
5. [Release 2.0.1. 2023](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/2.0.1)
6. [Release 3.0.0. 2024](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/3.0.0)
7. [Release 3.0.2. 2025](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/3.0.2)
8. [Release 3.0.3. 2025](https://github.com/canokeys/canokey-core/releases/tag/3.0.3)
9. [Source](https://api.github.com/repos/canokeys/canokey-core)