Passwords have long been the cornerstone of online security, but they may soon become a thing of the past. In a significant move, tech giant Microsoft has announced a major shift: users can now log into their accounts without passwords by default.
What Are Passkeys?
So, what exactly are passkeys? In simple terms, passkeys are a secure and convenient alternative to traditional passwords. Instead of typing in a password or entering a two-factor authentication code, users can access their accounts using a device they already own like a smartphone, tablet, or PC and authenticate with biometrics such as Face ID, fingerprint, or a simple PIN.
According to tech experts, this method improves both security and ease of use. By removing the need to remember complex passwords, users can enjoy a smoother and safer login experience.
How Do Passkeys Work?
When using passkeys with Microsoft accounts, here’s what typically happens:
- You try to log in to your Windows account or Outlook email.
- A notification appears on your phone.
- You authenticate with your fingerprint or face recognition.
- Once verified, you’re instantly logged into your account no password needed.
This approach is already partially implemented by companies like Google and Apple, and resembles Saudi Arabia’s government authentication system “Nafath”, where biometric data is used for secure verification across official portals.
Are Passkeys More Secure Than Passwords?
Security is a common concern, and rightfully so. Traditional passwords, when strong, can be complex a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. But this complexity often becomes a burden for users, leading to bad habits like reusing passwords or writing them down.
Passkeys, on the other hand:
- Eliminate the need to remember multiple complex passwords.
- Reduce phishing risks, since there’s nothing to type or steal.
- Are encrypted and device-specific, which makes them harder to compromise.
That said, passkeys typically require internet access on your device. If you’re traveling or lose connectivity, it might create some hurdles. Fortunately, fallback options like SMS codes are often available after repeated failed login attempts.
The User Experience: What People Are Saying
Many users are already struggling with managing multiple passwords:
- Omar: “I use one password for everything easy to remember, but not the safest.”
- Ahmed: “I have eight passwords and still forget them often.”
- Rima: “I use variations of my birthday to make things easier.”
Clearly, the burden of password management is real. That’s where passkeys offer a welcome relief, simplifying the experience without compromising safety.
Are Passkeys the Future of All Online Accounts?
While Microsoft has adopted passkeys as a default login method, this approach is not yet universal. Other companies and platforms are taking a wait-and-see approach or slowly rolling it out in phases.
Each tech company has its own policies, and until there’s a unified standard, users will likely encounter a mix of password and passwordless systems across the web.
What About Authenticator Apps?
Another popular alternative to passwords is authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. These apps:
- Generate time-based one-time codes every 10–20 seconds.
- Don’t require internet access to function.
- Must be pre-installed and linked to your account.
While they add a robust layer of security, they still require setup and maintenance. However, they remain a reliable solution for accounts not yet supporting passkeys.
Final Thoughts
The shift toward a passwordless future is clearly gaining momentum. While passkeys are not yet a universal solution, their benefits are undeniable: higher security, lower stress, and better user experience.
As more companies adopt this new standard, users should start exploring and setting up passkeys where available. It’s a step toward a simpler and more secure digital life.