What do HOTP, TOTP, and OTP codes mean anyway? What is the difference between them?
It has become uncommon to simply register on a website, enter a password, and log in to your account. We see that it is very common that we have to receive verification codes in order to create an extra layer of security. However, there are differences. In this article, we will talk about what OTP, TOTP, and HOTP mean. We will explain to you the difference between them.
All of these protocols are related to methods of generating one-time passwords. Basically, it is a code that you must enter to log into an account, such as a social network, a remote database, etc. It is a complement to traditional passwords.
- Methods for generating one-time keys
These methods are already in abundance today and will become more common. They will allow you to protect your accounts as much as possible and prevent any intruder from accessing them. Even if they manage to know the primary password, they will also need to have the one-time code that is used to enhance security.
- OTP
These are the first letters, in English, of a one-time password. Basically, they are one-time passwords. It's a key that we can receive via email or SMS, for example. When we log into an account, we enter the password and then we are asked for this one-time code to verify.
It is responsible for creating an additional layer of protection. This code can contain letters and numbers and will be random. It is a very common method of multi-factor authentication and is used in banking accounts, social networks, etc. It is worth noting that this password, this code that they send, can only be used once. However, there is no time limit on its use.
For security reasons, it is important to use the code you receive. Otherwise, it may remain there so that a hacker can break into your account later. Once you use it, it will no longer be valid for use, and you will have to request a new one.
- TOTP
Very similar to what is known as TOTP. But on this occasion they add something that will be essential: time. The letter T comes from time. Basically, the password or key we receive will change from time to time. Usually it is very fast, from 15 seconds to a minute or so.
It uses an algorithm that is responsible for generating these codes and changes from time to time. It is a fairly secure way to protect the account. We have to enter the corresponding key as well as a code in order to be able to enter. By having a limited time to be able to use it, the degree of security increases.
There are very popular apps that rely on this, such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. This certainly improves the security of using OTP. You can use it to log in to social networks, bank accounts, and many other online platforms that you have protected with two-step authentication.
- HOTP
Third, there is another type called HOTP. In this case, the HMAC algorithm is used and it is event-based. When you request a new code, a new code is automatically generated. It does not depend on time, but on that counter, on that event that occurs. Basically, the OTP is renewed every time you log in.
We can say that it is a method that is not used very often today. It is more common to use the time-based TOTP method, as it is considered more secure.
Ultimately, there are differences between OTP, TOTP, and HOTP, although all three methods will work to log into an account using an additional code. In all of these cases, they provide greater security. Don’t rely solely on password protection for your accounts; use two-factor authentication methods to create an extra layer of security.