Microsoft has recently achieved a significant milestone in their campaign against passwords with the introduction of Passkeys for Microsoft user accounts. This move aims to encourage users to shift away from passwords, which are prone to vulnerabilities, Microsoft has been constantly working to provide users with more secure sign-in options.
According to a recent blog post by Microsoft, they have been gradually rolling out alternatives to passwords since the launch of Windows Hello in 2015. Meantime their identity system detected huge increase (3,378%) in password attacks, makes password attacks more popular and not sufficient enough to protect us online.
Pic Courtesy: Microsoft
Passkeys follows more secure method of signing into websites and apps. These Passkeys rely on a pair of unique cryptographic keys. One key is securely stored on the user's device, safeguarded by biometrics or a PIN, while the other key remains with the app or website. Both keys are required for authentication, following the concept of needing both customer’s key and the bank's key to access a safety deposit box.
Passkeys offer unique key pair combinations, ensuring they only function on the designated website or app. This prevents users from inadvertently signing in to malicious look-alike sites, making passkeys highly resistant to phishing attempts.
Microsoft's initiative follows the footsteps of other tech giants such as X, who have also embraced Passkeys as part of their authentication framework.
How to Set up a Microsoft Passkey
- Visit the Microsoft website and click login on the device where you wish to establish the Passkey.
- Click on Sign-in Options.
- Choose the authentication method Face, fingerprint, PIN, or security key.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
How to Sign-in using a Passkey
- Instead of entering your email address during sign-in, select the "Sign-in options" button.
- Choose the authentication method Face, fingerprint, PIN, or security key.
- Opt for "use saved Passkey" to complete the sign-in process.
Microsoft plans to expand the adoption of password-free sign-on gradually. Therefore, it's advisable for users to transition to Passkeys sooner rather than later for enhanced security and convenience.