Nitrokey 3 FAQ

Q: Which Operating Systems are supported?

Windows, Linux and macOS. Also some support for Android and iOS.

Q: What can I use the Nitrokey for?

See the frontpage for an overview of supported use cases.

Q: How can I check if my Nitrokey 3 is working?

On WebAuthn.io you can check various high-level functionalities, while webautn.bin.coffee provides good developer level details (technical) details.

Q: Where is the right spot for NFC on my smartphone?

Use nfc.fail to find the right spot!

Q: What happens if I lose my device?

When securing accounts using FIDO (two-factor authentication and passwordless login), you should configure another factor in your account as a backup. Depending on the service this backup factor can be a phone number, an app or even a second Nitrokey FIDO2. If you lose a device, you can still log in with the second Nitrokey (or with another second factor).

Q: How large is the storage capacity?

The Nitrokey 3 doesn’t contain storage capability for ordinary data (it can only store cryptographic keys and certificates).

Q: When will the OpenPGP card firmware be available?

OpenPGP card functionnality is currently available as a beta firmware. The announcement contains more information concerning the current status and installation instructions.

Q: Why does the Nitrokey 3 not show up in GnuPG/Nitrokey App/nitropy?

Currently the Nitrokey 3 does only show up and can be managed in nitropy. Nitrokey App and GnuPG will likely be only available once the firware update is available for the OpenPGP card.

Q: How can I set the PIN for my Nitrokey 3?

On GNU+Linux and macOS you can configure and do basic settings for your Nitrokey 3 using Chrome(ium) just visit: chrome://settings/securityKeys (clicking the link will not work for security reasons, please copy&paste it)

On Windows type “Security Keys” into the search bar on the bottom left and click the first result. Then click “Security Keys” and “Manage”. Now follow the onscreen instructions.

Q: Is the Nitrokey 3 Common Criteria or FIPS certified?

The secure element is Common Criteria EAL 6+ security certification up to OS level (See here, click “ICs, Smart Cards and Smart Card-Related Devices and Systems” and search for: “NXP JCOP 4 SE050M”).