Skip to content
English
Contact us
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

Setting up your passkey

Passkeys are a simple and secure way to log in without remembering passwords. Instead of typing a password, you confirm your identity using your device (biometric, PIN, or a hardware key). Passkeys reduce the risk of phishing, make logging in faster, and work across most modern platforms.

This article explains your setup options and our recommendation for getting started.

What is a Passkey?

A passkey is a digital credential stored securely on your device. It replaces traditional passwords with stronger authentication methods such as Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello, or a security key. Passkeys are built on the FIDO2/WebAuthn standard, so they work across Apple, Google, Microsoft, and many major browsers.

Setup Options

1. Built-in Device Authentication

  • Apple (iPhone, iPad, Mac): Use Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode. Passkeys are saved to your iCloud Keychain and sync across devices.
  • Windows: Use Windows Hello (Face recognition, fingerprint, or PIN). Passkeys are stored in your device’s Trusted Platform Module (TPM).
  • Android: Use your fingerprint, face unlock, or device PIN. Passkeys sync with your Google Password Manager.

Best for: Everyday use, since it’s seamless and synced across your devices.

2. Phone as a Passkey

If you’re signing in on a laptop or desktop without biometrics, you can use your phone:

  • Scan a QR code on the login screen.
  • Approve the request with Face ID, Touch ID, or fingerprint.

Best for: Cross-device logins, especially on shared or older computers.

3. Hardware Security Key (USB, NFC, Bluetooth)

  • Works like a digital “physical key.”
  • Brands include YubiKey and Google Titan Security Key.
  • Connect via USB-C, USB-A, NFC, or Bluetooth.

Best for: Advanced users or workplaces requiring the highest level of security.

Our Recommendation

For most users, the best setup is built-in device authentication with cloud sync:

  • Apple users: Enable passkeys in iCloud Keychain with Face ID or Touch ID.

  • Windows users: Set up Windows Hello with a PIN, fingerprint, or camera.

  • Android users: Turn on Google Password Manager with fingerprint or PIN.

This gives you the easiest login experience while keeping your accounts secure. If you need extra security (e.g., for business or admin accounts), consider adding a hardware security key as a backup.

Key Benefits of Passkeys

  • Fast: Log in instantly with Face ID, fingerprint, or PIN.

  • Safe: Stronger protection against phishing and stolen passwords.

  • Portable: Syncs across Apple, Google, and Microsoft ecosystems.

  • Flexible: Works on mobile, desktop, and with hardware keys.

Need help with anything else?

We are here to support you:

🌐 Knowledge Base

📧 Email: support@hutly.com