Have you ever considered a world where those long, complex passwords people often forget would no longer be necessary? Well, it seems like that day might be coming sooner than we thought.
Google has now made Passkeys the default way to sign in for all personal accounts on its network, marking the start of a new era in online security. Goodbye passwords, hello Passkeys!
You might be wondering, what exactly is a Passkey?
It's the next big thing in online safety, and if you're a business owner with employees, you should definitely pay attention to this groundbreaking innovation.
Here's all the vital information you need to know.
What are Passkeys?
Imagine logging into your account using just a simple four-digit PIN or even your biometric data like your fingerprints or facial recognition. That's precisely what a Passkey is.
It might sound easy, but don't be fooled by its simplicity. This new technology significantly reduces the chances of someone stealing your login information or taking control of your account.
How do Passkeys work?
Setting up a Passkey is a breeze. You can visit Google's official Passkeys website, create a PIN or link your biometrics (like your fingerprint or face), connect your smartphone, and you're good to go.
Just keep in mind that your computer should be running at least Windows 10, or your Mac should have macOS Ventura or a newer version. On your phone, you'll need Android 9 or iOS 16.
Currently, Passkeys work with Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Google Chrome browsers.
What are the advantages of Passkeys?
Google reports that 64% of people find Passkeys easier to use than traditional login methods.
Not only are they more straightforward and more secure, but they're also faster. Logging in with a Passkey is 40% quicker than using a regular password.
What's coming next?
Google's decision to make Passkeys the default sign-in method is just the beginning. The tech giant is already collaborating with selected partners to make this new way of logging in available on Chrome and Android. It's already accessible on platforms like Uber and eBay, and there are plans to expand it to WhatsApp soon.
So, it might be a good idea to start thinking about how Passkeys can benefit your business, as Google could also introduce this feature for business accounts.
However, if you're not quite ready to embrace Passkeys, you can still choose to opt out. Simply go to the Sign-in options page, look for "Skip Password When Possible," and turn off the switch.
We recommend trying it and experiencing how much easier and more secure it can make your online activities. And, of course, if you need any assistance, don't hesitate to reach out.