Introduction: A new way to sign in
Passwords have long been a weak link in online security. People reuse them, choose simple phrases, and often fall for phishing. Passkeys offer a different approach: they replace passwords with cryptographic keys that live on your device or in a secure cloud. In this explainer, we’ll break down how passkeys work, why many experts say they’re safer, and what it could mean for everyday online life.
What is a passkey and how does it work?
A passkey is a cryptographic credential used to authenticate you to a service. Instead of typing a password, you unlock a key with a biometric, a PIN, or your device’s secure hardware. When you sign in, the service uses a public key (shared with the service) and a private key (kept on your device). The private key never leaves your device, and the authentication proves you possess it without sending a secret that could be stolen in transit.
The system relies on standard technologies known as WebAuthn and FIDO2. These standards enable cross-platform compatibility, so you can sign in on your phone, laptop, or tablet without juggling different passwords. If you lose a device, you can recover access through trusted recovery methods offered by the service or your device maker.
Why passkeys are considered safer than traditional passwords
The core advantage is removing the shared secret from the internet. A stolen password typically means a breach you can’t easily reverse. With passkeys, even if a hacker intercepts data from a site, they won’t obtain the private key needed to impersonate you. Additionally, passkeys are phishing-resistant: authenticating requires you to use your device’s native prompt, which helps prevent apps or pages from tricking you into revealing credentials.
Another big benefit is resilience against credential stuffing. Since there’s no password to reuse across sites, attackers can’t leverage credentials at scale. This makes passkeys particularly appealing for busy users who juggle multiple accounts and find password hygiene overwhelming.
Potential drawbacks and things to consider
While passkeys offer clear advantages, they aren’t a perfect fit for everyone yet. Some users may rely on multiple devices and need seamless cross-device syncing. Providers are building backup options, like cloud-synced keys and recovery codes, but during the transition period there can be friction if you lose access to your primary device and haven’t set up a recoverable path.
Another consideration is the ecosystem. Passkeys work best when services adopt the same authentication standards (WebAuthn/FIDO2). While major platforms are on board, there may be gaps with smaller sites. For institutions handling sensitive data, administrators will want to plan migration carefully, including backup recovery strategies and staff training.
What this means for daily life and future security
For most people, the shift toward passkeys means fewer login headaches and stronger protection against common attack vectors. You’ll likely notice faster sign-ins on devices you trust, fewer prompts to create or update passwords, and improved consistency across apps and websites.
As more platforms support passkeys, we could see a gradual end to the era of passwords as the default authentication method. However, the transition will take time, and users should stay informed about available recovery options and device security best practices. Keeping devices updated, enabling biometric or PIN protection, and securing backups remain essential steps in the security journey.
Bottom line: Are passkeys safer?
When implemented broadly, passkeys offer a more phishing-resistant, user-friendly, and breach-resilient alternative to passwords. The shift isn’t instantaneous, but the trajectory is clear: fewer passwords, more secure and convenient logins. If you’re curious about your own accounts, check whether your favorite services offer passkey support and how you can enable them across your devices.
