Microsoft Launches Passkey Support For All Consumer Accounts

Microsoft has recently made a significant stride towards a passwordless future by introducing passkey support for all consumer accounts. This innovative approach allows users to sign in to their Microsoft accounts effortlessly, without the need for traditional passwords. Instead, passkeys utilize the device's own authentication methods, such as facial recognition, fingerprint sensors, or PINs, to provide a secure and convenient login experience.

Passkeys are built on WebAuthn technology, which generates two keys: a public key stored by the service and a private key kept on the user's device. This dual-key system enhances security while simplifying the sign-in process. In case of device loss or damage, passkeys can be recovered through multiple devices, phone numbers, email addresses, or hardware security keys.

The adoption of passkeys is not limited to Microsoft; major tech companies like Apple and Google have also embraced this technology. With over 400 million Google accounts utilizing passkeys, it's clear that this method is becoming a popular alternative to traditional passwords.

Microsoft's journey towards eliminating passwords began with the introduction of Windows Hello in Windows 10, which allowed users to log in using biometric data. The company continued to advance this initiative by supporting FIDO security keys and eventually offering a completely passwordless option for Microsoft accounts in 2021.

The widespread implementation of passkeys marks a milestone in the tech industry's collective effort to enhance online security and user convenience. As more services and applications integrate passkey support, we move closer to a future where the hassles and risks associated with passwords are a thing of the past. This development not only streamlines the user experience but also represents a significant advancement in digital security practices.

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