- Microsoft is adding passkey syncing support to Microsoft Edge 142 on Windows 11 (and 10), allowing users to securely store and sync passkeys through Microsoft Password Manager.
- The feature lets users sign in to supported websites using biometrics or PINs instead of passwords, improving security and convenience.
Microsoft is rolling out a new security feature for Microsoft Edge that enables passkey saving and syncing across Windows 11 (and 10) desktop devices through the Microsoft Password Manager. The feature is initially available for Microsoft account users, with expansion to more platforms expected soon.
Passkeys come to Microsoft Password Manager
Passkeys are a modern and secure alternative to traditional passwords. Instead of relying on text-based credentials, passkeys use the FIDO2 open standard based on public-key cryptography. Each account generates a unique private key that stays securely stored on your device, while only the public key is shared with the website. This design makes passkeys phishing-resistant and immune to password reuse or guessing attacks.
On Microsoft Edge version 142, you can now store your passkeys directly in the Microsoft Password Manager and sync them securely through your Microsoft account. Passkeys can be created when visiting websites that support this authentication method, and once saved, they can be used to log in with Windows Hello, including fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN.
How the new syncing feature works
When you create your first passkey, the browser will prompt you to set up a Microsoft Password Manager PIN, which encrypts and protects your passkeys in the cloud. The PIN also acts as a verification layer when accessing passkeys on a new device.
All stored passkeys are encrypted end-to-end and backed by the Azure Confidential Ledger, providing a transparent, tamper-proof log of all unlock and reset attempts.
You can manage your passkeys from the Microsoft Edge settings on edge://settings/autofill/passwords/settings. If you forget your PIN, you can reset it on a device that already has access to your passkeys.
Integration beyond Microsoft Edge is coming soon
Microsoft confirms that future updates will enable passkey support beyond Microsoft Edge, including other browsers and Windows 11 (and 10) apps through a dedicated plugin. However, at this stage, syncing only works for personal Microsoft accounts on Windows and is not yet available for mobile or Microsoft Entra (work or school) accounts.
Passkeys in the browser requirements
To use the feature, you’ll need to have version 142 or higher for the Edge browser, a Microsoft account, and a Windows 11 or Windows 10 device.
Why passkeys are the smarter, safer choice
Passkeys are quickly becoming the preferred choice for online security among major tech companies due to their clear advantages. They offer stronger protection than traditional passwords, as they cannot be guessed, stolen, or phished.
Signing in is faster and more convenient, requiring only a fingerprint, facial recognition, or device PIN instead of manual typing.
Also, passkeys are privacy-focused, all biometric data is processed locally on your computer, and they sync seamlessly across devices through your Microsoft account.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 22 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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