Passkeys Explained: Set Them Up (Apple, Google, Microsoft)

A passkey replaces your password with your face, fingerprint or PIN. It can't be phished or leaked in a breach. Here's how to start.

How it works

Your device keeps a private key and the website only gets a public key, so there's no password to steal or reuse.

Google account

myaccount.google.com > Security > Passkeys and security keys > Create a passkey.

myaccount.google.com > Security > Passkeys

Apple

When a site or app offers 'Create a passkey', accept; it's saved in the Passwords app and synced with iCloud Keychain.

Passwords app

Microsoft and others

Open your account's security settings and search for 'passkey'. Add one on your phone first.

Keep a backup way in

Keep your recovery phone/email up to date and, for important accounts, a second passkey or security key.

FAQ

What if I lose my phone?

Passkeys sync to your Apple, Google or password-manager account, so a new device gets them after you sign in.

Can I still use my password?

Usually yes. Passkeys are added alongside your password; some services let you remove the password later.