Enabling and Disabling Web Authentication in Joomla 4 through the Plugin

Joomla! 4 introduces a myriad of features that enhance user experience, security, and overall system functionality. One of these features is Web Authentication, which allows users to log into the Joomla! website without a password, using biometric verification or security keys. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to enable and disable this feature through the Joomla! 4 plugin system.

Prerequisites:

• You must have Joomla! 4 installed and running.
• Admin access to the Joomla! backend.

Enabling Web Authentication:

1. Login to the Joomla! Administrator Panel: Access your Joomla! backend by going to your website's URL followed by /administrator (e.g., www.yoursite.com/administrator). Enter your admin credentials to log in.

2. Navigate to the Plugin Manager: On the left sidebar, click on Extensions and then select Plugins.

3. Search for the WebAuthn Plugin: In the search bar, type in "WebAuthn". The "System - WebAuthn Passwordless Login" plugin should appear in the results.

4. Enable the Plugin: Click on the red "X" button (or the status switch) next to the plugin name. Once clicked, it will turn into a green check mark, indicating that the plugin is now active.

5. Configure the Plugin (Optional): If you wish to modify any settings, click on the plugin name to access its configuration. Adjust the settings as desired, and then click Save & Close.

Your Joomla! website now supports Web Authentication. Users will be able to set up and use Web Authentication methods from the frontend login module.

Disabling Web Authentication:

1. Login to the Joomla! Administrator Panel: Like before, access the backend of your website.

2. Navigate to the Plugin Manager: Under Extensions, choose Plugins.

3. Search for the WebAuthn Plugin: In the search bar, input "WebAuthn" to locate the plugin.

4. Disable the Plugin: Click on the green checkmark (or the status switch) next to the plugin name. It will change to a red "X", signaling that the plugin is deactivated.

Web Authentication is now disabled, and users won't be able to use it for logging into your Joomla! website.

Conclusion:

Joomla! 4's Web Authentication feature is a great step towards enhanced security and user experience. By allowing users to authenticate using biometrics or security keys, it significantly reduces the risks associated with password-based logins. Whether you choose to enable or disable it, make sure to always prioritize the safety and convenience of your users.