24 May 2026
What Are Passkeys? (And Why They're Replacing Passwords)
Passkeys are replacing passwords. Learn what they are, how they work, and why they're safer for your accounts.
If you've noticed your phone or computer asking you to "sign in with a passkey" - you're not alone.
Passkeys are starting to replace passwords, and they're designed to make logging in both easier and more secure.
The good news? You don't need to understand the technical details to use them.
What Is a Passkey?
A passkey is a new way to log in to your accounts without needing a password.
Instead of typing a password, you use something you already have:
- Your fingerprint
- Your face (Face ID)
- Your device PIN
So instead of remembering dozens of passwords, your device handles the login securely for you.
Why Passkeys Are Safer
1. No Password to Steal
Hackers can't steal a password if there isn't one.
2. Protection Against Phishing
Passkeys only work on the correct website or app, so fake login pages don't trick you.
3. Built Into Your Device
Your phone or computer keeps your passkeys secure - they're not stored in a way that can be easily accessed.
Why They're Easier to Use
Let's be honest - passwords are a hassle.
- Forgotten passwords
- Reset emails
- Trying to remember which password goes where
Passkeys remove all of that.
You just unlock your device - and you're in.
Where Are Passkeys Used?
More and more services are supporting passkeys, including:
- Google accounts
- Apple ID
- Microsoft accounts
- Online services and apps
This list is growing quickly.
Do You Still Need Passwords?
For now, yes - in some cases.
But over time, passkeys are expected to replace passwords completely.
You may already be using them without realising it.
Should You Start Using Passkeys?
For most people, yes.
They're:
- More secure
- Easier to use
- Already supported on modern devices
If your device offers to create a passkey, it's usually a good idea to accept it.
How Local Nerd Can Help
If you're unsure how passkeys fit into your setup, Local Nerd can help make sense of it all.
- Set up secure login systems
- Help you move away from weak passwords
- Improve your overall online security
- Explain everything in plain English
Make Your Accounts Safer (Without the Hassle)
Online security doesn't have to be complicated.
Passkeys are one of the simplest ways to make your accounts safer while making life easier.
People Also Ask
Are passkeys better than passwords?
Yes. Passkeys are more secure and easier to use because they can't be stolen or guessed like passwords.
Can passkeys be hacked?
They are much harder to hack because they don't rely on shared secrets like passwords.
Do I need a password manager with passkeys?
In many cases, passkeys reduce the need for password managers, although they can still be useful.
What happens if I lose my phone?
Your accounts can usually be recovered using backup methods, and your device security helps protect your passkeys.
Can Local Nerd help set this up?
Yes. Local Nerd can help you set up secure login systems and improve your online security.