Passkeys Explained: The Future of Passwordless Security

Updated on June 19, 2025, by ITarian

Are passwords really on their way out? It seems so. With major tech giants like Apple, Google, and Microsoft embracing passkeys, it’s time to ask: what is a passkey, and why is it becoming the go-to method for secure logins?

A passkey is a passwordless login credential that allows users to authenticate into websites and applications using their devices and biometrics instead of entering a traditional password. This modern approach uses public-key cryptography and follows the FIDO2 standard, making it nearly impossible to phish or crack.

Let’s explore how passkeys work and why they’re reshaping the future of digital security.

Why the Industry Is Moving Beyond Passwords

In 2024, over 80% of hacking-related breaches involve stolen or weak passwords. This outdated security method opens the door to phishing, credential stuffing, and brute-force attacks. That’s where passwordless authentication comes in.

With a passkey:

There is no password to remember or steal
Logins are faster and more secure
User experience improves dramatically

How a Passkey Works

A passkey is based on public-key cryptography. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

Device Generates Two Keys:
- A private key stays securely on your device
- A public key is stored with the website or service
You Authenticate Using Biometrics:
- Face ID, fingerprint, or PIN
- Confirms it’s really you
The Device Signs a Challenge:
- Using the private key
- Verifies your identity without exposing the secret

This setup prevents credentials from being intercepted or reused elsewhere.

Benefits of Passkeys

Switching to passkeys offers several security and usability advantages:

Phishing-Resistant: No password means nothing for attackers to steal
Biometric Login: Authenticates with face, fingerprint, or device PIN
Cross-Device Sync: Apple and Google allow syncing across iCloud or Google accounts
No Need for Password Managers
Easy Recovery: Lost device? Restore passkeys via cloud accounts

Passwordless Authentication vs Traditional Methods

Feature	Passwords	Passkeys
User Memory	Required	Not needed
Susceptible to Phishing	Yes	No
Biometric Login	Optional	Built-in
Sharing Risk	High	None (non-transferable)
MFA Required	Often	Integrated by default

As you can see, passwordless authentication isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a smarter, safer method of securing access.

The Role of the FIDO2 Standard

Passkeys are built on the FIDO2 standard, which includes:

WebAuthn: Enables passkey support in web browsers
CTAP2: Connects authenticators (phones, tokens) to devices

The FIDO2 Alliance, backed by tech leaders, aims to eliminate passwords entirely by promoting stronger and easier authentication methods.

Where You Can Use a Passkey

Major platforms and services now support passkeys:

Apple: Safari, iOS, macOS
Google: Chrome, Android
Microsoft: Edge, Windows Hello
1Password: Passkey manager
Dropbox, PayPal, eBay, TikTok and more

You can sign into your bank, apps, or business tools with a tap or glance—no passwords required.

Biometric Login: Convenience Meets Security

Passkeys often work in tandem with biometric login features, offering:

Instant recognition via fingerprint or face
Strong identity assurance
Built-in security chip (like Apple Secure Enclave)

Unlike passwords, biometric data never leaves your device, adding an extra layer of privacy and security.

Implementing Passkeys in Your Organization

If you’re an IT manager or founder, here’s how to start:

Enable WebAuthn on Your App
Update Identity Providers (like Okta or Azure AD)
Educate Employees on Passwordless Security
Start with MFA and transition to Passkeys
Use Analytics to Track Adoption & Risk

Passkeys are ideal for reducing helpdesk requests, improving user satisfaction, and cutting costs.

Industry Impact of Passkeys

• Finance: Prevents fraud during high-value transactions

• Healthcare: Secures patient records with biometric checks

• Retail: Speeds up checkout and improves customer experience

• SaaS/Enterprise: Secures business apps and employee accounts

• Education: Simplifies student and faculty logins

Final Thoughts

So, what is a passkey? It’s your key to a safer, simpler digital future. By eliminating passwords, passkeys stop the cycle of reset emails, hacked credentials, and frustrated users.

With backing from the FIDO2 standard, biometric login, and wide industry adoption, passkeys offer a practical and powerful upgrade to your cybersecurity toolkit.

Ready to go passwordless? Start your free trial today.