In today’s digital world, passwords are the keys that keep our online lives secure. But with the ever-increasing number of online accounts, it can be a daunting task to remember all the different passwords. Fortunately, Google has introduced a new feature called Passkey that aims to simplify this process. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps for how to set up Google Passkey and clear out your doubts such as whether should I use Google Passkey or not.
How to Set Up Google Passkey
With Google Passkey, users can easily log in to their favorite websites without having to remember complex passwords but what exactly is Google Passkey?
What is Google Passkey?
Google Passkey is a new password-less authentication method that enhances online security and offers a convenient authentication experience for users. It uses fingerprints, face scans, or other screen locks to provide a unique, secure authentication method for websites and apps. Passkeys are based on public key cryptographic protocols, making them resistant to phishing and other online attacks, and more secure than other forms of multi-factor authentication. Users can set up Passkeys on the same device or from a different device by scanning a QR code to connect the devices.
For Android
1. Open Google App from your phone menu.
2. Tap on your profile picture in the top right corner.
3. Slide the menu towards the left to see the Security option.
4. Scroll down a little and tap on Passkeys.
5. As you can see our device already has a passkey setup. This is because Google has automatically generated passkeys for all Android users.
Also Read: Fix Uplay Google Authenticator Not Working
For iPhone
In case you have an iPhone then you won’t get an auto-generated passkey and will have to generate one.
1. Open Google App and Click on your profile picture.
2. Tap on Manage your Google Account.
3. Tap on Security.
4. Scroll down a little and Tap on Passkeys.
5. Google would ask for your password to confirm it’s you. Tap on Continue.
6. The new passkey will get saved to iCloud Keychain.
Also Read: How to Use Microsoft Authenticator
Where is My Google Passkey?
Where is my Google Passkey does not have a singular answer as they are saved at different locations according to the operating system and device you are using. But basically, your passwords are saved at below mentioned location.
Windows: Passkeys can be used on Windows 10 or later versions, and to save them, you need to set up Windows Hello. However, it is important to note that passkeys are only saved on your computer, and Windows Hello does not offer synchronization or backup options. In the event of a lost computer or operating system reinstallation, the passkeys cannot be recovered.
Android: If you use passkeys on your Android device once you set them up they are stored in the Google Password Manager, which ensures secure backup and synchronization between your Android devices. However, it is important to note that in order to store passkeys, your device must have Android 9.0 or a later version, and you must enable a screen lock.
iPhone & iPad: Passkeys can be used on iOS or iPadOS 16 or later versions, and they are stored and synchronized through your iCloud Keychain across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices.
Should I Use Google Passkey?
Whether should you use Google Passkey or not depends on your personal preferences and level of comfort with new technologies. If you find it challenging to remember complex passwords or are concerned about the security risks associated with using the same password across multiple accounts, then Passkey could be a valuable tool to consider.
Passkey is designed to provide a more secure authentication method, reducing the risk of a security breach caused by a compromised password. It is also a convenient way to log in to your favorite websites without having to remember a complex password.
However, like any technology, Passkey is not foolproof and can still be subject to security risks, such as relying on Passkey issuers such as Google for authentication carries the risk of being locked out if the system encounters technical issues. Ultimately, the decision to use Passkey or not should be based on your own assessment of its benefits and risks.
Also Read: How to Prevent Google Chrome From Saving Passwords
Although learning how to set up Google Passkey and the convenience and security benefits it offers make it an attractive option for many users. However, it is important to remember that Passkey is just one tool in the fight against online security threats and should not be relied upon solely to keep your accounts safe. By staying vigilant and taking a comprehensive approach to online security, we can all enjoy a safer and more secure online experience.