Say goodbye to forgotten passwords, endless reset emails, and sticky notes on your monitor. Passkeys — a safer, simpler alternative to traditional passwords — are quickly gaining traction as the new standard in digital security.
But what exactly are passkeys, and how do they work? Here’s what businesses and individuals need to know about this emerging technology and why it might be time to move on from passwords for good.
What Are Passkeys?
Passkeys are a passwordless authentication method based on cryptographic key pairs. Instead of typing a password, you use your fingerprint, facial recognition, or a device PIN to log in — no memorization required.
A passkey consists of:
- A public key stored by the website or service.
- A private key stored securely on your device (and never shared).
Together, they authenticate you automatically and securely — without ever transmitting sensitive information like a password.
Why Are Passkeys More Secure?
Passwords are vulnerable by design. They can be guessed, stolen, reused, or phished. Passkeys solve these issues by being:
- Phishing-resistant: There’s nothing to “give away” to attackers.
- Unique and device-bound: One passkey per site, stored locally or in your secure cloud account.
- Protected by biometrics or PINs: Only you can use your passkey.
Even if a hacker breaches a website, your private key remains safe — because it was never there in the first place.
How Are Passkeys Used?
Major platforms like Apple, Google, and Microsoft already support passkeys. When logging into a website or app that supports passkeys, you’ll be prompted to:
- Authenticate with your fingerprint, face, or device PIN.
- Your device verifies your identity using the stored private key.
- You’re in — no password needed!
And since passkeys sync securely across devices (if you allow it), you can log in on your phone, tablet, or desktop with ease.
What This Means for Businesses
Businesses should start preparing for a passwordless future now. Here’s why:
- Improved user experience = fewer login issues and support requests.
- Lower security risks = fewer phishing, credential stuffing, or brute-force attacks.
- Better compliance = passkeys align with evolving cybersecurity best practices.
Pro tip: Work with your IT provider to evaluate passkey support in your apps, customer portals, and internal systems. Many major identity providers (like Microsoft Entra ID and Okta) are already integrating passkey options.
When Will Passwords Disappear?
We’re still in a transition period. Many services still rely on passwords, but the momentum behind passkeys is growing fast. Expect to see more login options labeled “Sign in with passkey” or “Use your device” in the months ahead.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Change
Passwords had a good run — but passkeys are shaping up to be the smarter, safer way forward. As support grows across platforms and services, adopting passkeys can simplify your digital life while boosting your cybersecurity.
Ready to Go Passwordless?
Tobin Solutions can help your business explore secure authentication solutions that work for your team and your technology. Contact us today!
We guarantee a better technology experience — one passkey at a time.
