Microsoft Partners with 1Password to Enhance Passkey Support in Windows 11
New passkey support and 1Password integration bring passwordless logins to Windows 11.
Key Takeaways:
- Microsoft boosts Windows 11 security with expanded passkey support.
- New 1Password integration simplifies passkey management.
- Users can now sign in using biometrics via Windows Hello.
Microsoft is strengthening passkey support in Windows 11 as part of its ongoing shift away from traditional passwords toward more secure, phishing-resistant authentication. A new partnership with 1Password allows users to seamlessly sync and manage passkeys directly within Windows 11.
A passkey is a modern, secure way to log into apps and websites without using a traditional password. It uses cryptographic keys stored on users’ devices and verifies their identity using biometrics (like a fingerprint or face scan) or a device PIN.
How to enable and use new passkey integration in Windows 11
Microsoft says that users can enable passkey integration on Windows 11 PCs by following the steps mentioned below:
- Install 1Password Beta on the Windows 11 PC.
- Head over to Settings > Passkeys > Advanced options to enable the plugin credential manager.
- Enable support and use Windows Hello to complete user verification (face, fingerprint, or PIN).
- Users will either need to create new passkeys or use their existing passkeys saved to the plugin credential manager.
To use an existing passkey, Windows 11 users will visit a website where they have already saved a passkey in their credential manager. Select it and then sign in quickly using Windows Hello without needing to type a password.
To save a new passkey, users must visit a website that supports them and choose the option to create a passkey for their account. Select the credential manager to store the passkey, and confirm their identity using Windows Hello. Finally, the passkey will be securely saved.
Microsoft is currently testing its new passkey integration with Windows 11 Insiders on the Dev Channel (Build 26200.5670). The company has also released a credential manager API plugin that allows other password managers to integrate with Windows 11.
Microsoft’s broader vision for passwordless security
Over the past few years, Microsoft has consistently moved toward eliminating passwords in favor of passkeys, aligning with its broader vision for a passwordless future. Passkeys, which rely on cryptographic authentication and biometric verification, significantly reduce the risks of phishing and credential theft.
Microsoft has integrated this approach across its ecosystem, including Windows Hello, Microsoft Authenticator, and Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory), making it easier for users and organizations to adopt passwordless sign-ins.
Rabia has a master's degree in Software Engineering and she has years of experience writing professionally about Microsoft products and other technologies. Rabia has also written for OnMSFT.com as well as Windows Report. She is always up to date on t...
