What Are Passkeys and How They Improve Your Online Security
Passwords have long been the standard method for protecting online accounts, but they often lack strength, are reused, or are stolen. Passkeys, the next-generation login method, aim to replace passwords entirely. They utilize strong cryptographic keys securely stored on your device, enabling you to sign in to websites and apps without ever entering a password. Passkeys are resistant to phishing, data breaches, and password theft. Major companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft support passkeys, which simplify logins while significantly enhancing your online security.
How to Tell if Your Account Supports Passkeys
Before switching to passkeys, you need to see if the service or website supports them. Many major platforms – like Apple, Google, Microsoft, and PayPal – already do. To check:
- Sign in to your account on the website or app.
- Go to Account Settings, Security, or Login & Password.
- Look for options such as:
- Passkeys
- Passwordless Sign-In
- FIDO2 Security Keys
- WebAuthn
How to Add Passkeys for Password-less Login
Adding a passkey to the Apple Passwords app isn’t something you create manually – passkeys are generated automatically when a supported website or app offers them. Here’s how you can add one:
- If you see a passkey option, on your account website or app select it to set up or enable passkeys.
- Authenticate using your device’s Face ID, Touch ID, or a PIN.
- The passkey is automatically saved in the Apple Passwords app and synced via iCloud Keychain.
If you’re converting an existing account, your passkey replaces your password for future logins.
Using Passkeys
The next time you login to your account that is authorized to use passkeys choose Sign in with a passkey. Your device will ask for Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode. No password typing needed.
Managing Passkeys in the Passwords App
In the Passwords app you can delete or share account passcodes via AirDrop, but you cannot manually create or edit a passkey – only the service can generate one. Here is how to manage your account passkeys.
- Open and unlock the Passwords app on your iPhone/iPad or Mac.
- Select the account you wish to manage.
- If a passkey exists, it will show as “Passkey” instead of a password.
Learn More
Learn more about passkeys from these authoritative sources:
