Microsoft is celebrating World Password Day (IT people deserve a holiday too!) by helping them get killed. The company finally has rolled out support for user passwords for Microsoft accounts, nearly two years behind Apple and Google.
Once you set it up, the passcode lets you sign in to your Microsoft account using your face, fingerprint, or device PIN. It works not only on Windows, but also on the mobile and desktop platforms of Apple and Google.
Access keys are an easier and more secure way to access your account. They use what’s called a cryptographic key pair to ensure that only you can log in. One half of the pair is stored on your local drive, accessible only through your secure local login. The other part remains in the app or website. Requiring both to log in acts as a deterrent to things like password leaks and phishing attacks.
In addition to Apple, Google, and now Microsoft, companies that accept passwords include Amazon, 1Password, Dashlane, Docusign, eBay, PayPal, and WhatsApp (among others). Google said Thursday that its passwords have now been used a billion times.
Microsoft password support is rolling out today across the company’s desktop apps and websites, including Microsoft 365 (Office) and its Copilot AI assistant. The Windows maker says password support for its mobile apps “will follow in the coming weeks.”
You can start from by signing in to your Microsoft account here and following the instructions.
https://www.engadget.com/you-can-finally-use-passkeys-to-sign-into-your-microsoft-account-155431241.html?src=rss
