sign-in experience Archives

Winsage

September 7, 2025

Explore what’s new: September 2025 security update for Windows 11

On September 9, 2025, Microsoft will roll out its Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, featuring security enhancements, performance improvements, and new features. Key updates include: 1. A redesigned homepage for the Recall app for easier access to search options and recent activities. 2. An interactive tutorial for the Click to Do application, which launches on first use and can be accessed from the menu. 3. A clock displaying seconds in the Notification Center, which can be activated through Settings. 4. A grid view format for photo results in Windows Search, with notifications for limited search results during indexing. 5. A redesign of Windows Hello components to modernize the authentication visuals. 6. Enhancements to the Settings app, including an AI agent for locating system settings and a new "Recent activity" option for third-party app requests. 7. Updates to the Task Manager for more consistent CPU usage metrics. 8. Introduction of Windows Backup for Organizations for enterprise-grade backup and restore capabilities. 9. Improvements to File Explorer, including organized context menus and user activity display on the Home page. Additional features are expected in future updates, including a "Your Device Info" card and more legacy Control Panel functionalities.

Winsage

May 5, 2025

How to Remove Login Password on Windows 11

To remove the login password on Windows 11 for a local account, open Windows Settings by pressing “Windows + I,” navigate to “Accounts,” select “Sign-in options,” expand the “Password” section, click “Change,” enter the current password, leave all fields blank on the next screen, and click “Next” and then “Finish.” For a Microsoft account, open the Start menu, type “netplwiz,” uncheck “Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer,” and if necessary, adjust settings in Windows Settings under Accounts > Sign-in options to disable the toggle for “For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device (Recommended).” After that, return to the netplwiz window, uncheck the option, and click Apply > OK. Consider removing the PIN for a smoother sign-in experience.

Winsage

March 30, 2025

Microsoft is asking people to delete their passwords

Microsoft will introduce a new sign-in and account creation process emphasizing passkeys starting in April, impacting over a billion users. New users will verify their email and generate a passkey instead of creating a password, while existing accounts will prioritize passkeys for authentication. Microsoft's goal is to eliminate passwords entirely, as passkeys are tied to a user's device and can be unlocked using biometric methods. The company blocks approximately 7,000 password-related attacks every second, highlighting the vulnerability of traditional passwords. Passkeys are securely stored on devices, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, and are reported to be three times faster than traditional passwords.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Microsoft is streamlining logins for Windows, Xbox, and M365

Microsoft is transforming its Microsoft Account (MSA) sign-in experience to create a modern interface across web and mobile platforms, with plans for Windows to follow. By the end of April, users will see a revamped login and registration process with a streamlined flow and fewer elements per screen. The update will optimize passwordless sign-ins through the introduction of passkeys, which will become the default method for future logins. If a passkey is not used, email-based logins will be the fallback option. The redesigned interface will feature consistent Microsoft branding, with a unified background image and color-themed buttons and links for different services. The rollout of this new experience is expected to be completed by the end of April.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Microsoft’s passwordless future is here for Outlook, Xbox, 365, and more

Microsoft is transforming its sign-in screens to simplify the authentication process for over 3 billion users globally. The rollout has begun, with Xbox users already experiencing changes, and the revamped login experience will be available for Windows and other Microsoft services by the end of April. The update emphasizes passwordless authentication methods, such as passkeys, facial recognition, and fingerprint scans, moving away from traditional password reliance. Users signing up will not need to create a password but will receive a one-time security code for verification and will be prompted to create a passkey. The sign-in flow is being redesigned to reduce complexity, and the new screens will adopt Microsoft’s Fluent Design aesthetic, offering a dark theme option for customization. The updated sign-in process is currently available on the Xbox website, with web and mobile applications set to follow.

Winsage

November 4, 2024

Microsoft refreshes Windows Hello to make signing in with your face (or fingers) much more pleasant with Windows 11

Microsoft is updating its biometric authentication feature, Windows Hello, with a new Beta Channel preview build available to Windows Insider Program members. This update introduces a redesigned sign-in experience that aligns with the aesthetics of Windows 11 and aims to make the authentication process more intuitive. The Beta Channel Preview Build 22635.4440 (KB5045889) includes enhanced login options and permission management, along with various tweaks to improve the overall Windows 11 experience. Additionally, a new game controller keyboard feature has been temporarily disabled to address existing issues, with plans for its reintroduction in a future update. Feedback from Windows Insider members is being monitored during this testing phase.