Transcodes

Product Introduction

1. Definition: Transcodes is an Authentication-as-a-Service (AaaS) platform specializing in passkey-first, passwordless authentication and multi-factor authentication (MFA). It operates as a cloud-native SaaS solution, eliminating backend integration requirements for client applications.
2. Core Value Proposition: Transcodes exists to provide startups and small businesses with enterprise-grade, phishing-resistant authentication that deploys in under 1 hour. Its core innovation lies in eliminating passwords, refresh tokens, and dedicated auth engineering resources while supporting FIDO2/WebAuthn standards, TOTP, and hardware authenticators like YubiKey.

Main Features

1. Passkey-First Authentication:
   Transcodes uses FIDO2/WebAuthn standards for biometric logins (Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello) and hardware keys. It automatically handles RP ID/origin validation, attestation flows, and credential lifecycle management. Fallback to email OTP or TOTP occurs seamlessly when passkeys aren't supported.
2. Zero-Backend Integration:
   Clients implement authentication via a CDN script injection. The platform handles session encryption, token refresh, and domain allowlists through its web worker architecture. Server-side validation uses DPoP-bound access tokens instead of traditional refresh tokens, reducing attack surfaces.
3. Admin MFA Step-Up:
   Enforces mandatory MFA for admin dashboard access using configurable factors (TOTP, security keys, or email OTP). Policies are managed via a visual console with real-time threat monitoring and automatic session termination.
4. Phishing-Resistant Architecture:
   Implements strict domain binding and origin verification to prevent credential theft. All cryptographic operations occur in isolated web workers, with JWK (JSON Web Key) encryption for stored credentials.
5. User Data Portability:
   Allows full user data exports in standardized formats for migration to other systems, avoiding vendor lock-in. Data remains encrypted at rest using AES-256.

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Startups waste 2-5 weeks and $4k–$12k building custom auth systems, delaying MVP launches. Transcodes reduces integration time to <1 hour with no backend code.
2. Target Audience:
   • Early-stage startups needing rapid MVP validation
   • Non-technical founders using no-code web builders
   • Small businesses lacking dedicated auth engineers
   • React/Next.js/Vue.js developers seeking plug-and-play auth
3. Use Cases:
   • Securing admin dashboards with step-up MFA
   • Replacing password-based logins in legacy SaaS apps
   • Adding phishing-resistant authentication to client-side rendered apps
   • Compliance-driven projects requiring FIDO Alliance-certified solutions

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike Auth0 or Firebase Auth, Transcodes requires zero SDK installation, backend configuration, or refresh token management. It’s 30x faster to deploy than DIY passkey implementations and costs 90% less than enterprise alternatives.
2. Key Innovation: The platform’s DPoP-bound token system eliminates refresh token vulnerabilities while maintaining stateless sessions. Its web worker-based architecture enables cross-origin authentication without CORS complications, a first in AaaS solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does Transcodes support mobile app authentication?
   Currently, Transcodes specializes in web authentication via CDN integration. Native mobile SDKs are roadmap items for 2025.
2. How does Transcodes prevent vendor lock-in?
   All user credentials and metadata are exportable in standards-compliant formats (JWK for keys, JSON for profiles), enabling frictionless migration.
3. What compliance standards does Transcodes meet?
   The platform adheres to FIDO2 Level 2 certification requirements, GDPR encryption standards, and NIST 800-63B guidelines for phishing-resistant MFA.
4. Can Transcodes integrate with existing user databases?
   Yes, via its User API for importing credential hashes and metadata. Real-time sync options are available for PostgreSQL and MongoDB.
5. How does pricing compare to building authentication in-house?
   Transcodes eliminates $12k+ development costs and 4+ weeks of engineering effort. Subscription plans start at $19/month for core features, including admin MFA and 10k monthly active users.