Passkeys: What They Are and How to Use Them



Passwords are slowly becoming a thing of the past. Tech giants like Apple, Google, and Microsoft are rolling out a new way to log in called passkeys — and they might just make passwords obsolete.

So, what are passkeys, and how can you start using them? Let’s dig in.

What Are Passkeys?

A passkey is a new, more secure way to sign in to websites and apps without using a traditional password.

Instead of typing in something you know (like MyDog123!), you confirm your identity with something you have (your phone or computer) and something you are (like a fingerprint or face scan).

Behind the scenes, passkeys use cryptography — meaning your login is protected by a unique digital key stored securely on your device, not by a password that could be stolen in a data breach.

Why Passkeys Are Safer

  • No password to steal: Hackers can’t guess or phish what doesn’t exist.

  • Unique for each site: Each account has its own passkey, so there’s no “reuse” problem.

  • Phishing-resistant: Even if you click on a fake login page, your passkey won’t work because it’s tied to the real website.

  • Stronger than SMS or authenticator codes: There’s no code to intercept or trick you into giving up.

How to Use Passkeys

  1. Check if a site supports passkeys

    • Many services (Google, Apple, Microsoft, PayPal, eBay, and more) are already rolling them out.

    • When setting up your account, look for “Sign in with a passkey” or “Add a passkey.”

  2. Set up a passkey

    • On your phone or computer, enable Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello, or a device PIN.

    • The site will create a passkey linked to your device.

  3. Log in with a passkey

    • Instead of typing a password, you’ll confirm with your face, fingerprint, or device unlock.

    • If you’re on a new device, you can use your phone to approve the login.

Real-World Analogy

Think of passwords as car keys. You can lose them, someone can copy them, or they can be stolen.

Passkeys are more like a push-to-start button in modern cars. Only your specific car (device) and your fingerprint (or face) can start it. No one can just grab a key and drive away.

Tips for Getting Started

  • Start with your most-used accounts: Enable passkeys for Google, Microsoft, or Apple first.

  • Use a backup plan: Keep your password manager handy in case a site doesn’t support passkeys yet.

  • Sync across devices: Apple iCloud Keychain, Google Password Manager, and 1Password already support passkeys across your devices.

Bottom Line

Passkeys are a huge leap forward in online security. They’re easier to use than passwords, far more secure, and designed to resist phishing and data breaches.

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