Now you can sign in to your Microsoft Account using Windows Hello, FIDO2 devices

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Published onNovember 20, 2018

published onNovember 20, 2018

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Microsoft and other tech companies are currently hard at work to replace passwords with more secure alternatives. Today, the Redmond giant ismaking a huge step forwardby making it possible to sign in to your Microsoft account online using Windows Hello or a FIDO2 security key.

Earlier this year, Microsoft announced that it wasadding support for FIDO2 security key authentication to Windows 10. The feature initially launched in limited preview during the Spring, but it’s now officially available with the Windows 10 October 2018 Update.

For those unfamiliar, FIDO2 authentication keys are standard-based devices that allow users to sign in to online services without a password. FIDO2 devices usually look like USB keys (some models also use NFC), and they come with a built-in biometric technology for letting you verify your identity.

Companies selling FIDO2 devices includeYubicoandFeitian Technologywith prices starting at $20. The set up process will require you to go to the Microsoft account page on Microsoft Edge, and then set up a security key in Security > More security options > Windows Hello and security keys. Once you’re done, you’ll be able to choose your security key next time you need to sign in to your Microsoft account with Microsoft Edge.

For those of you who don’t want to invest in a FIDO2 device but already have a PC that supports Windows Hello, you’ll also be able to use that to sign in to your Microsoft account online. If Windows Hello is already configured on your PC, you’ll be able to use it as a login option when you sign in using Microsoft Edge. Again, the ability to sign in with your Microsoft account using a FIDO2 device or Windows Hello requires the Windows 10 October 2018 Update, and Microsoft has justresumed the public rollout of this major update last week.

“With each update, we’re eradicating places where you’re forced to enter a username and password, bringing you peace of mind that your account is protected and accessed by you, and only you. We’re excited about the journey we’re on and hope you join us on this quest to go password-less,” Microsoft said today.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).

For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.

Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.

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Radu Tyrsina

With KB5043178 to Release Preview Channel, Microsoft advises Windows 11 users to plug in when the battery is low#

Copilot in Outlook will generate personalized themes for you to customize the app#

Microsoft will raise the price of its 365 Suite to include AI capabilities#

Death Stranding Director’s Cut is now Xbox X|S at a huge discount#

Outlook will let users create custom account icons so they can tell their accounts apart easier#

Now you can sign in to your Microsoft Account using Windows Hello, FIDO2 devices#