Advancing Passkeys: Microsoft’s New Updates for Easier and More Secure Sign-Ins

Happy World Passkey Day!

As the global trend moves from passwords to new authentication methods like passkeys, we are thrilled to join the FIDO Alliance in celebrating the inaugural “World Passkey Day.” Microsoft, along with many other organizations, has committed to the Passkey Pledge, aiming to enhance the adoption and integration of passkeys throughout the upcoming year. This aligns with our goal to ensure that logging into accounts is both easy and secure.

The Move Towards Passwordless Sign-Ins

About a decade ago, Microsoft introduced a revolutionary concept: imagine logging in by simply smiling! This concept became reality with the launch of Windows Hello, allowing users to securely access their accounts using facial recognition, fingerprints, or a personal identification number (PIN). Windows Hello set the stage for a new era of authentication, with over 99% of users signing into their Windows devices with their Microsoft account via this method.

However, as we navigate through our digital lives, we recognize that signing into just your device isn’t sufficient. A comprehensive solution is necessary for signing into any account without using a password. Through collaboration with the FIDO Alliance and other industry partners, Microsoft has developed passkeys—an authentication method designed to be secure and resistant to phishing attacks. Today, numerous apps and websites support passkeys, allowing users to log in using biometrics or a PIN. This shift is significant as it reflects the changing landscape of online security.

To find a range of websites that accept passkeys, check out the Passkey Directory – FIDO Alliance.

Over the last few years, two important trends have emerged: there’s been a marked increase in the use of passwordless sign-ins, and a sharp rise in password-related cyberattacks. Cybercriminals are aware that the password era is coming to a close, and they’re leveraging automated methods to cheat system logins. Last year alone, there were approximately 7,000 password attacks occurring every second—this marks a significant surge compared to previous years.

Users Prefer Passkeys for Microsoft Accounts

Last year, we rolled out passkey support for consumer Microsoft apps and services, such as Xbox and Copilot. This has resulted in nearly one million new passkeys being registered every day. Sign-ins using passkeys are remarkably effective—users are three times more successful logging in with a passkey versus using traditional passwords (98% compared to 32%). Not only are they easier to use, but passkey logins are also eight times faster than inputs requiring passwords and multifactor authentication.

We believe that combining usability with strong security measures is essential. To further our progress towards a passwordless world, we are implementing several noteworthy changes:

1. Updated Sign-In User Experience (UX): Our newly designed sign-in and sign-up process is modernized and simplifies the overall experience while prioritizing passwordless methods.
2. Passwordless by Default for New Accounts: New Microsoft accounts will now automatically be set to passwordless. New users will have several options for signing in without a password, and they won’t need to create a password at all.
3. Preferred Passwordless Sign-In: We are making it easier to log in by automatically detecting the best method available, promoting safer options, and facilitating a faster login experience.

As we look towards a future without passwords, with billions logging into their accounts every day, the potential for passkeys is tremendous. More than 15 billion user accounts can currently access services through passkeys, yet we seek to broaden this use to ensure every sign-in is passwordless. Embrace this shift by securing at least one of your accounts—preferably as many as possible—with a passkey for greater security and convenience.

To learn how to create a passkey for your Microsoft account, click here. Windows users can learn more about saving and managing passkeys here: Save a passkey in Windows – Microsoft Support

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¹ A breakthrough year for passwordless technology, Alex Simons. December 17, 2020.

² Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2024

³ New user experience for consumer authentication, Robin Goldstein. March 26, 2025.