Windows 11 is under development to include a feature that enables users to sign into websites using their fingerprint or face recognition. Microsoft has elevated the security features of their newest operating system by supporting the fresh passkey standard. This effort is aimed at substituting old-style passwords with a more secure and easy-to-use authentication technique. In a recent Insider Preview Build, Microsoft incorporated Windows Hello to facilitate the creation and authentication to applications and websites using passkeys.
This allows end-users to verify their identity using a PIN, fingerprint, or facial identification. To use this functionality, users need to go to a website that offers passkey support, establish a passkey in the website's settings, and log out to see the option of signing in using the innovative authentication method.
In Edge or Chrome web browsers, this sign-in option is under "Windows Hello or external security key." Stored passkeys can be managed by going to "Accounts" and then "Passkeys" in the Windows settings. The Microsoft Edge browser has supported the root Web Authenticat prior.
Microsoft is making significant strides in enhancing user security and ease of use in Windows 11. The upcoming authentication feature, which utilizes passkeys that a user can verify through a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition, aims to replace traditional password authentication. This advanced authentication technique, supported in the Chrome and Edge browsers, leverages user biometrics and hardware to authenticate web applications and sites securely. Microsoft's effort in pioneering these improved security standards showcases their commitment to user security and an improved user experience.
Windows 11 is introducing a new passkey standard to replace traditional passwords and improve security. In the latest Insider Preview Build (23486), Microsoft has enabled Windows Hello to allow users to sign into websites and applications using a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. To use the feature, a user needs to visit a website that supports passkeys, set up a passkey in the website's settings, and log out in order to view the sign-in option. In Edge or Chrome browsers, this sign-in option can be found under "Windows Hello or external security key." Saved passkeys can be managed through the "Accounts" and then "Passkeys" section in Windows settings. Prior to the passkey standard, Microsoft Edge supported the Web Authentication (WebAuthn) API. The WebAuthn API provides a secure way for users to authenticate to websites and applications without a username and password. It is based on an open standard that is supported by a wide range of browsers and devices. With the introduction of the passkey standard, Microsoft is expanding its support for secure authentication across multiple websites and applications.
Windows 11, Windows Hello, Passkeys, Web Authentication, Biometrics, Fingerprint Recognition