Microsoft officially released passkey support (a more secure version of passwords) and is working on enhancing its native support.
A newer version of Windows 11 included a feature that lets users sign into websites that required passkeys using Windows Hello biometrics login. Users will be able to view and manage all of their saved passkeys for every website and app they use right from their desktops.
At this stage, more companies need to have the infrastructure to support passkeys for them to completely erase passwords, various tech companies, from giants like Microsoft to password managers to social media companies are pursuing passkeys as a replacement for passwords entirely.
Unlike passwords, they can’t be stolen or used by hackers, since they rely on biometric logins and present a significantly safer alternative to the growing severity of password data breaches.
Passkeys are cryptographic keys that replace passwords. Users create a unique passkey pair during setup, consisting of a public key stored on the device and a secure private key. Passkeys offer enhanced security by being immune to phishing attacks and eliminating the need for memorizing passwords.
They also protect user privacy by removing the need for third-party services to handle passwords. Windows 11 integrates passkeys with hardware-backed protection, ensuring the private keys remain secure. It’s manageable right from the Settings app.
Microsoft and other tech giants like Apple and Google’s ongoing commitment to enhancing user security comes after global cybersecurity incidents and several years of data breaches ramping up in severity, including the largest attack on Canadian oil companies in history happening only days ago.
Large-scale attacks using employee credentials are also remedied by the adoption of passkeys since threat actors can no longer remotely log in to administrative accounts by stealing the companies password
Overall the push toward passkeys should help general users out with their everyday password management and security.