Passwordless login is becoming the new standard at Microsoft. The tech giant is stepping up efforts to remove passwords from the sign-in process entirely. This shift is part of a broader plan to improve security and simplify how users access their accounts.
For years, Microsoft has offered login options like facial recognition, fingerprints, and PINs through Windows Hello. Today, more than 99% of users rely on these methods to access their Windows devices. But now, Microsoft wants to go even further—by offering passwordless login on all services, including Xbox and Copilot.
At the heart of this transition is a technology called passkeys. These are secure digital keys that let you log in without needing a password. They are stored on your device and protected by biometrics or a device PIN. Passkeys can’t be stolen through phishing like traditional passwords, making them much safer.
Microsoft says the move is urgent. Last year, the company recorded over 7,000 password-based attacks every second. As more users adopt passwordless options, attackers are focusing on accounts that still rely on old login methods.
To support this shift, Microsoft is rolling out a new login and sign-up experience. It prioritizes passwordless login and offers it as the default option for new accounts. Users no longer need to create or remember a password during setup.
For existing users, the process is also easier. You can now go into your Microsoft account settings and remove your password completely. Once that’s done, you’ll sign in using a passkey or another secure method instead.
Microsoft has also introduced smart defaults. If your account already uses a one-time code, the system will prompt you to use it instead of your password. After logging in, you’ll be asked to set up a passkey. From then on, passkeys will be your main login method.
This change brings two big benefits: faster sign-ins and stronger protection. By guiding users toward passwordless login, Microsoft hopes to phase out passwords entirely over time.
“As more people switch to passkeys, password usage will drop. Eventually, we aim to remove passwords from the login process altogether,” Microsoft said.
With these updates, Microsoft is pushing toward a future where logins are simple, fast, and secure. And with phishing attacks on the rise, the shift to passwordless authentication couldn’t come at a better time.
