Abstract: A device is disclosed, having a programmable processor programmed to cause a fuel cell authentication device to obtain a first unique identifier element (UIE) associated with a first hydrogen fuel cartridge and host information associated with a host device configured to use fuel from the first fuel cartridge. Said device may determine that the first fuel cartridge is authorized for use with the host device, based on data exchanged via a data communication network with a remote cartridge tracking system, the first UIE, and the host information. Yet further, the authentication device transmits authorization data to the host device indicating that the host device is permitted to use fuel from the first fuel cell cartridge.