Microsoft has taken another step towards making Windows 10 passwordless
Microsoft has been working on removing passwords from Windows 10 and Microsoft Accounts for a number of months now. The next major update to Windows 10 aims to move them one step further along their plan of a passwordless future where remembering complex passwords, having a password manager, or struggling to avoid reusing passwords is a thing of the past.
With the next update, you’ll be able to enable a passwordless sign-in for Microsoft accounts on a Windows 10 device. You’ll be able to access the PC by gaining entry through Windows Hello face authentication, fingerprints, or a PIN code.
If you opt for the new “make your device passwordless” feature, the password option will simply disappear from the login screen.
Microsoft has progressively been trying to convince Windows 10 users to opt into the much more secure two-factor authentication processes offered to them. Those authentication processes such as basic SMS, a separate Microsoft Authenticator app, Windows Hello, or even physical security keys with the FIDO2 standard are all usable with Windows 10. It’s also possible to sign into a Windows 10 PC with just a phone number on a Microsoft Account.
If you opt to use a PIN code, Microsoft argues that even though it seems simpler to use a four-digit code, it’s far more secure than a password. This is thanks to unknown variables and the fact that the code is stored on a device and not shared online. Windows 10 stores your private key on a device that has a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which is a secure chip that keeps a PIN local to your device only. While a server can be compromised and passwords and other data stolen, a Windows Hello PIN wouldn’t be affected.
The option to go passwordless also extends to business users through Azure Active Directory. Businesses can go fully passwordless with security keys, the authenticator app, or Windows Hello.
As always, if we can be of help with your network or computer, give us a call here at RHYNO Networks. (855) 749-6648
