Microsoft Goes Passwordless

Users can now remove the passwords from their accounts and replace them with other security options. The feature will reach the general public in the next few weeks.

An Update

In the coming weeks, users will be able to remove all passwords, linked to their Microsoft account. They can replace them with:

• a security key
• a verification code sent to phone/email
• Windows Hello
• the Microsoft Authenticator app

Why Is It Necessary

Passwords have long been known to be an ineffective data and ID protection solution. In fact, according to 28% of organizations, cybercriminals are most likely to go for customer passwords.

Users, however, find it near impossible to remember auto-generated or made-up strong keys. As a result, many rely on password manager tools. Although effective, they need a master key, which people need to know by heart.

Microsoft promises to eliminate half of the issues. In a blog post, Vasu Jakkal explains: “For the past couple of years, we’ve been saying that the future is passwordless, and today I am excited to announce the next step in that vision. In March 2021, we announced that passwordless sign in was generally available for commercial users, bringing the feature to enterprise organizations around the world. Beginning today, you can now completely remove the password from your Microsoft account.”