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Microsoft Ditches Passwords for the Sake of Security

You still have to verify your identity, but with more secure means

By Rob Rich Rob Rich News Reporter College for Creative Studies Rob is a freelance tech reporter with experience writing for a variety of outlets, including IGN, Unwinnable, 148Apps, Gamezebo, Pocket Gamer, Fanbolt, Zam, and more. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on September 15, 2021 12:41PM EDT Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr University of Maryland Baltimore County Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire. lifewire's fact checking process Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Internet & Security Mobile Phones Internet & Security Computers & Tablets Smart Life Home Theater & Entertainment Software & Apps Social Media Streaming Gaming Microsoft will allow personal account users to skip the passwords and log in directly with more secure verification methods. For decades, passwords have been the go-to for baseline account security, so why does Microsoft want to do away with them? According to a new support page, it's because passwords are no longer the most secure way to verify your digital identity. As Microsoft points out, passwords can be a liability, as they can be stolen or even straight-up guessed. Angela Rohde / EyeEm / Getty Images So instead of passwords, the plan is to use other methods like an authenticator, biometrics, SMS codes, and physical security keys. It's an opt-in option, though, so you get to decide if you want to stop using passwords or not. This won't necessarily make logging in faster, especially if you're used to keeping your passwords stored, but it would be more secure. The option is reversible, too, so you're not stuck if you remove your password and then decide you want to go back. Logging in without passwords won't be universal, however. Microsoft has acknowledged that older Windows app and services like Office 2010 (or 2011 on Mac) and Windows 8.1 or earlier still will require them regardless. If you're an Xbox user, you'll also still need your passwords to log in to your Xbox 360. The Xbox One and Series X/S will work with the new passwordless option, though. Westend61 / Getty Images The passwordless rollout already has begun for Microsoft accounts and will continue through the coming months. So if you don't see the option now, check back later. However, the feature is currently only being offered to personal accounts, so don't expect to see it for work or school accounts anytime soon. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Run a Google Security Checkup What Is SHA-1? (SHA-1 & SHA-2 Definition) How to Recover a Forgotten Gmail Password What to Do If You Forget Your Windows 7 Password How to Change Your Password in Windows Protect an Outlook.com Account with 2-Step Verification How to Use Passkeys on iPhone, iPad, or Mac How to Reset a Lost Windows Live Hotmail Password How to Create a Password in Windows How to Fix It When Hulu Can't Verify Your Email How to Add Money to a Venmo Balance How to Password Protect a Folder How to Save Passwords in Chrome for iOS What Is a Cryptographic Hash Function? How to Get a Spotify Student Discount How to Reset Your Yahoo Mail Password Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies