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Magic Link Authentication Template
A product planning template for magic link authentication with email delivery, token security, UX optimization, and cross-device flow design.
Updated 2026-03-05
Magic Link Authentication
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should we offer magic link alongside password login, or replace passwords entirely?+
Start with magic link as the primary method and do not offer password creation during onboarding. Users who want passwords can set one later in settings. This approach simplifies onboarding (one fewer field) and reduces password-related support tickets. Slack takes this approach: magic link is the default, but you can set a password if you prefer.
How do we handle users with slow email delivery?+
Show a clear "check your email" interstitial page with: the email address you sent to (partially masked), a spam folder reminder, a resend button (available after 60 seconds), and a link to try a different email. For products where email delivery is unreliable (consumer apps with many Gmail/Yahoo users), consider offering SMS magic link as a fallback.
What about account security if someone gains access to the user's email?+
This is the fundamental tradeoff of magic link auth: your security is exactly as strong as the user's email security. For most B2B products, this is acceptable because corporate email is protected by SSO, MFA, and device management. For high-security products (banking, healthcare), magic links should be combined with a second factor. The [MFA template](/templates/mfa-template) covers second-factor options.
Can we use magic links for mobile apps?+
Yes, with some adjustments. Use deep links (iOS Universal Links, Android App Links) so the magic link opens directly in your app instead of a browser. Implement the polling approach so the user can also stay in the app while waiting for the email. The [access control template](/templates/access-control-template) can help define what authenticated mobile users can access. ---
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