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Goodbye Passwords. Hello Passkeys. A Friendlier and Safer Way to Sign In

Updated: Apr 9

We can all agree on one thing. Passwords are kind of the worst.

You forget them. You reset them. You try to remember if the letter "S" was a dollar sign or just capitalized. Sometimes you just give up and hit "Forgot Password" like it is part of your daily routine.

If that sounds familiar, you are definitely not alone. But there is a better way. It is called a passkey, and it is changing how people and businesses stay secure online.

And the best part? It is much easier than you might think.




So What Is a Passkey?

A passkey lets you log in using something you already have, like your phone or computer, and something that is uniquely you, like your fingerprint or face.

There is no password to type. Nothing to remember. Nothing for someone else to guess or steal. Just a simple and secure way to sign in that happens quietly in the background.


Who Is Already Using Passkeys?

Apple

If you sign in to websites or apps using Face ID or Touch ID, you are using a passkey. Apple stores them in iCloud and keeps them synced across your devices.

Google

Google accounts including Gmail and Workspace now support passkeys. One tap and you are in without typing anything.

Microsoft

Microsoft has fully embraced passkeys. With Windows Hello and Microsoft Authenticator, you can log in to your business accounts without a password.

PayPal and Online Retailers

Companies like PayPal, Amazon, Best Buy, and eBay are using passkeys to make online shopping more secure and much faster.


Passkeys vs Passwords. What’s the Difference?

Here is a simple side by side comparison:


Why Should You Care?

Passwords are not just annoying. They are also one of the most common ways that accounts get hacked. People reuse them, forget them, and accidentally give them away in phishing scams.

Passkeys take all of that stress away. They are more secure, easier to use, and already supported by the tools and devices you use every day.


If You Use Microsoft 365, This Matters Even More

If your business uses Microsoft 365, passkeys are already built into the ecosystem. You can use Windows Hello or Microsoft Authenticator to log in with your face or fingerprint. That means fewer support calls, less risk, and faster access for everyone on your team.


How to Start Using Passkeys

Getting started is easier than you might think. Here is what to do:

1. Check Your Devices

Make sure you are using:

  • A phone, tablet, or computer with Face ID, fingerprint unlock, or a device PIN

  • The latest version of iOS, Android, or Windows

  • A modern browser like Safari, Chrome, Edge, or Firefox

2. Turn On Biometric Sign In

  • On iPhone: Go to Settings, then Face ID or Touch ID

  • On Android: Go to Settings, then Security, then Fingerprint or Face Unlock

  • On Windows: Go to Settings, then Accounts, then Sign In Options and enable Windows Hello

3. Use a Password Manager That Supports Passkeys

Apple iCloud Keychain, Google Password Manager, and apps like 1Password all work with passkeys. Make sure syncing is turned on so your passkeys are backed up across your devices.

4. Start Switching Accounts

Many websites now allow you to add a passkey:

  • Sign in to your account

  • Go to your account settings or security section

  • Look for an option to add or use a passkey

  • Follow the steps to confirm your fingerprint, face, or device

5. Set Up Microsoft 365 with a Passkey

6. Help Your Team Make the Switch

Once you get the hang of it, encourage your team to do the same. The more people use passkeys, the fewer issues you will have with password resets and security problems.


The Big Takeaway

Passkeys are not just the future. They are already here. They are being used by the companies you trust every day. And they are one of the easiest ways to make your business more secure.

They protect your data, save time, and make signing in faster and more enjoyable. Whether you are managing a business or just trying to protect your own accounts, passkeys make things better.


Want Some Help?

I help small businesses take the guesswork out of technology. If you are ready to ditch passwords and start using smarter security tools like passkeys, I am here to help.

Whether you need one-time setup help or ongoing IT support, let’s talk about what works best for your business

 
 
 

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