History of Authentication Keys

Authentication Keys are the keys carried through Expunge: Styx to remove the locks on the boss. The first key spawns when a Vex octahedron is shot, and later keys come from Nexus Guardians and gated areas.

A held key lasts about 10 seconds when first picked up. Running through the small data cubes adds time, and standing in the ring each cube leaves behind adds more. If a key expires, it respawns at the last cube passed. Keys are deposited at stations around the level; the station in front of the Cyclops removes one of the boss's three locks.

The guides cited are from 2021 (Season of the Splicer) and may be out of date.