With the rise of cyber threats passwordless authentication has become essential. Tech giants are adopting passkeys as an innovative solution. Microsoft has partnered with the FIDO (Fast IDentity Online) Alliance to support secure passkey integration emphasizing Microsoft’s commitment to a cross-industry effort aimed at a passwordless future.
Passkeys on Windows offer better protection against phishing and other cyber attacks, with added simplicity for the end user. Whether you are using Windows 10 or just upgraded to Windows 11, learning and using passkeys can elevate your digital experience.
We take you through what Windows passkeys are, how they work, and why they shape the future of online security.
A Windows passkey is an advanced login method designed to replace passwords with a safer and simpler authentication experience. At its core, passkeys are built on cryptographic principles, involving a private key that stays securely on the user’s device and a public key stored on the service's server for verification. This design ensures that only the rightful user can authenticate, eliminating the need to remember or type passwords.
Passkeys are powered by the FIDO (Fast IDentity Online) Alliance standards, which promotes passwordless authentication solutions. Specifically, passkeys leverage WebAuthn (Web Authentication), a web standard developed by FIDO and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). This combination of cryptographic technology, FIDO standards, and WebAuthn support makes passkeys a comprehensive solution for modern digital security.
To provide smooth and secure authentication, passkeys integrate with the device’s biometric features, such as fingerprint and facial recognition, along with other unlock methods like PIN. These methods are protected by device-level encryption, enhancing both user security and convenience.
Microsoft’s active participation in the FIDO Alliance reflects its commitment to a universal approach to authentication. By collaborating with industry leaders, Microsoft aims to overcome the weaknesses of passwords, introducing intuitive passkey solutions across its ecosystem.
As part of this commitment, Microsoft has introduced significant updates to Windows, focusing on making passkey use more intuitive and widespread.
At the Authenticate 2024 event, Microsoft announced several new developments that will be available in Windows Insider channels, including:
Windows Hello is an integrated biometric authentication system that supports the use of passkeys, It enables user authentication using facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or a secure PIN. Windows Hello is available on Windows 10 and 11.
Windows Hello passkeys ensure that the biometric data is processed and stored locally on the device, enhancing privacy and reducing exposure to external threats.
If you’re ready to start using passkeys on Windows, follow these detailed steps:
Once your passkey is set up, using it for authentication is simple:
If your passkey is not working on Windows, ensure your device is updated, Windows Hello is correctly set up, and any security key is properly connected.
Enhanced Security: One of the most significant advantages of Windows passkeys is their robust security framework. Compared to passwords, which can be compromised, a passkey is a pair of public and private keys. The private key, which is crucial for authentication, never leaves the user’s device and is protected by device-level encryption. That means that even if the public key stored on a server is exposed, it cannot be used to gain unauthorized access.
Cross-Platform Functionality: Windows passkeys are aligned with the standards of FIDO and WebAuthn, enabling users to use them across all platforms and devices without a hitch. This means a user can use their passkeys on compatible services and apps beyond just Windows, but also those that work within the Apple or Google ecosystems.
Privacy First: When using passkeys with Windows Hello, all biometric data is processed and then stored locally on a device; it's never sent to or stored on an external server. This local storage ensures that sensitive data is never at risk. By keeping biometric information private, passkeys give users the feeling of identity ownership.
Convenient and User-Friendly: Windows passkeys make the authentication process simple and quick. Users no longer need to remember complex passwords or worry about forgetting them. Logging in is as easy as a fingerprint scan or facial recognition, simple but very secure. This simplicity is especially beneficial for individuals managing multiple accounts, reducing the time and effort needed for secure sign-ins.
Reduced Password Management Issues: Passkeys eliminate the need for password resets and the common frustrations associated with password management. This leads to fewer support calls and a better user experience overall. For organizations, this also translates to cost savings and increased productivity, as employees spend less time dealing with password-related issues.
Windows passkeys are a significant step toward a future without passwords. By embracing standards from FIDO and WebAuthn, Microsoft further solidified its commitment to innovative authentication solutions.
The integration of Windows Hello means users get a smooth, private, and secure experience across their devices. With enhanced native UX, support for third-party passkey providers, and cross-platform compatibility, Microsoft is working toward a future without passwords.
As advancements continue, users can expect a more unified and secure digital experience that prioritizes both usability and protection.
