How to Create a Passkey for a Website in Windows 11

Why use a passkey?

Passkeys are stronger than standard passwords because attackers cannot guess them, reuse them from a data breach, or trick you into typing them on a fake site. A passkey only works on the real website it was created for. It is unlocked by your device’s built-in security, such as your fingerprint or PIN, and that check happens on your PC. Nothing you could be phished for is sent over the internet.

What happens when you are done?

When you finish these steps, you no longer need to remember a complex password for that website. You sign in with your Windows Hello PIN, fingerprint, or face instead. The steps work the same on Windows 11 Home and Pro, and you don’t need to restart your 🔄 PC.

How to create a passkey

Creating a passkey in Windows 11 lets you sign in to supported websites using your face, fingerprint, or PIN instead of a password. The short version:

1. Sign in to the website and open its account security page.
2. Select the option to add a passkey.
3. When your browser asks how you want to save it, choose Windows Hello.

If you can’t find the option, the site probably doesn’t offer it. Check the security or sign-in settings of your account.

1. Click the Create a Passkey button. The exact label varies by site. You may see wording like "Add a passkey" or "Set up passkey".
2. Wait for your browser to open a Windows security prompt. This is where you choose where to save the passkey.

Windows Hello must be set up on your computer beforehand. If the prompt never offers Windows Hello, or it doesn't work, check that a PIN, fingerprint, or face sign-in is configured under Settings › Accounts › Sign-in options A PIN alone is enough.

If your PC has a fingerprint reader or a compatible camera, Windows may ask for that instead. Look for a link such as More choices if you'd rather use your PIN.

1. Click the OK button to finish the setup.
2. Check that the website now lists the new passkey in your account's security settings. Some sites show a confirmation message instead.

You can now use the passkey to sign in to the website, replacing the need for a traditional password. The next time you sign in, pick the passkey option on the site's sign-in page. Then confirm with Windows Hello when the prompt appears. The passkey only works on the device where you saved it. To sign in on another computer, either create a passkey there too or save it to your phone or a security key.

To undo this, open the website's security settings and delete the passkey. Your existing password keeps working unless you remove it.

For more information, see this reference: Microsoft.com

Summary

Passkeys give you a secure login by using your device's built-in protection. By following these steps, you swap vulnerable passwords for a quick sign-in with your biometrics or PIN. Before you start, check your account settings to see whether the website supports passkeys. Keep a backup sign-in method, such as your password or account recovery options, until you're sure the passkey works on every device you use.