Get to Know the BOS: FastAuth for Easy, Web2 Style Onboarding and Account Recovery
The NEAR Blockchain Operating System (BOS) has recently launched on near.org, introducing an array of powerful features, including one of its flagship functionalities: FastAuth.
FastAuth offers users a superior onboarding experience, reminiscent of Web2-style convenience. It enables effortless account creation for any application on the BOS, eliminating the need for new passwords or the purchase of cryptocurrencies.
FastAuth also presents an incredible opportunity for developers, as it offers the easiest and fastest way to entice users to try new components and apps.
This aspect alone makes the BOS an attractive platform for developers, lowering the adoption threshold and potentially bringing billions of Web2 users into the Web3 space.
How does it work?
FastAuth operates by empowering users to create a single account that can be seamlessly used across various websites and apps integrated with the BOS. For developers building components on NEAR, FastAuth becomes an invaluable tool.
It boasts a Web2-style onboarding experience that prioritizes user experience, allowing users to swiftly create an account using biometrics, phone prompts, or an email address.
This enables users to quickly engage with an app and effortlessly re-authenticate from different devices. Unlike the traditional Web3 account management that relies on seed phrases and wallets, FastAuth simplifies the process by combining it with decentralized email recovery.
Users no longer need to remember seed phrases or install third-party wallet applications, as account recovery is achieved through a decentralized process known as “multi-party computation.”
This breakthrough introduces an easy, secure, and decentralized account recovery system, paving the way for mass adoption.
Furthermore, FastAuth eliminates the necessity of downloading third-party applications, allowing for a seamless experience directly from the browser on desktop or mobile devices.
By providing an easy and user-centric approach, FastAuth makes the open web accessible to everyone, facilitating mainstream adoption. Developers working on the BOS can leverage this user-friendly experience to effortlessly reach users with their Web3 components, apps, and experiences.
Opening the doors of WEB 3 has never been so easy
https://near.org/signup
Another remarkable aspect of BOS FastAuth is its ability to allow users to create an account without requiring any crypto. In the past, entering the Web3 space and interacting with apps necessitated acquiring cryptocurrencies upfront.
However, FastAuth changes the game by enabling new users to get started immediately, free of the need to purchase or receive crypto. This represents a significant advantage for developers, enterprises, and end-users alike. Leveraging NEAR’s Meta Transactions and Zero Balance Accounts, FastAuth allows users to register an account without any charges.
Developers can take advantage of this by utilizing Meta Transactions and relayers to sponsor initial interactions for new users without the need for them to purchase $NEAR.
This streamlined onboarding experience dramatically increases conversion rates for users trying out components and apps for the first time, while also expanding the potential audience by making the platform more accessible to mainstream users.
FastAuth creates an easy path for enterprises to integrate Web3 and crypto technology into their business operations. With just a few lines of code, they can onboard existing users into powerful new community and commerce experiences that are accessible, highly secure, and decentralized.
End-users can also enter the world of Web3 apps and experiences effortlessly, setting up secure, fully user-owned accounts in a matter of seconds.
Conclusion
Looking ahead, FastAuth aims to expand its capabilities and features. Some upcoming enhancements include extending relayers and FastAuth to additional gateways beyond near.org, further decentralization through multi-party computation, multi-chain compatibility, and the introduction of two-factor authentication.
The introduction of FastAuth on the BOS marks a significant milestone in achieving a seamless and user-friendly onboarding experience for Web3. With its innovative approach, FastAuth paves the way for broader adoption, empowering developers and users alike to explore the limitless possibilities of the NEAR ecosystem.
