In a recent update shared via the Windows Insider blog, Microsoft is making strides towards a more secure digital experience by testing a deeper integration of 1Password’s innovative passkey feature within Windows 11. This development marks a significant step in the ongoing transition from traditional passwords to more secure alternatives.
Understanding Passkeys
Passkeys offer a robust solution to the vulnerabilities associated with passwords. By leveraging a combination of something you possess—such as a smartphone—and a biometric identifier—like your face or fingerprint—passkeys enhance security while simplifying the login process. This dual-factor authentication not only alleviates the burden of remembering multiple complex passwords but also fortifies defenses against potential cyber threats.
Microsoft joins a growing movement advocating for a passwordless future, where passkeys take center stage in safeguarding user identities. The integration of 1Password into Windows 11 exemplifies this shift, providing users with a seamless and efficient way to manage their credentials.
How to Enable 1Password Integration
Enabling this feature is straightforward. Users need to install the 1Password Beta and then navigate to Settings > Passkeys > Advanced options to activate 1Password as a plugin credential manager. Additionally, user verification through Windows Hello—whether by face, fingerprint, or PIN—is required to complete the setup. Once these steps are taken, users can effortlessly utilize 1Password’s passkeys within the Windows 11 environment.
Currently, this feature is available exclusively in the preview version of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 (KB5060838) within the Dev Channel. The timeline for broader availability to all users remains unclear, as does the potential for similar integrations with other password management solutions.
This article was originally published in our sister publication PC för Alla and has been translated and localized from Swedish.