Passwords have become an issue where they are at risk from attackers. Passkeys help solve the issues that come along with passwords.
A passkey is a modern, password‑free way to sign in to apps and websites. Instead of typing something you know, you prove who you are using something you have (your device) and something you are (biometrics) or can do (your device PIN). It replaces passwords entirely and is designed to be both easier and far more secure.
What is a passkey actually?
A passkey is a cryptographic key pair created on your device:
- Private key — stays securely on your phone, laptop, or hardware module and never leaves it.
- Public key — sent to the service you’re signing into.
When you log in, the service sends a challenge that only your private key can answer. You unlock that private key using Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello, or a device PIN. As passkeys never leave the user’s device, if a breach occurred there is nothing useful for the attackers to steal.
Why passkeys matter?
Passkeys solve the biggest problems with passwords:
- Phishing-resistant — attackers can not trick you into typing a passkey because there’s nothing to type.
- No reuse of passwords — each passkey is unique to a specific site or app.
- Harder to steal — there’s no password database to breach.
- Convenient — you sign in with a quick biometric check instead of remembering anything.
- Supported across major ecosystems — Apple, Google, and Microsoft all use the same FIDO2/WebAuthn standard
Overview
Passkeys help keep your accounts safe from hackers and are more convenient to use for users. There is no need to reuse the same passwords with passkeys.
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