Microsoft will clear your passwords on August 1st. What should I do now?

Microsoft will remove your password within two weeks.

August 1st, Microsoft Authenticator Apps no longer store or manage passwords, which can be a problem for many users. Microsoft Authenticator has been one of the best password managers for many years. I was able to save my password and enable two-factor authentication and autofill. This change means that if you are using the Authenticator app as your password manager, you will need to immediately look for another option.

At the same time, Microsoft will move PassKeys Instead.

Using PassKey as a login means using patterns for pins, fingerprint scans, face recognition, or device lock screen. It’s a safer option compared to dangerous password habits. a CNET Survey We found that 49% of US adults have bad password habits. Using unstable passwords runs the risk of publishing your information.

If you are using Microsoft Authenticator, it’s time to start the changes. Here’s what you need to know about the Switch and the best Password Manager I recommend CNET.

When will Microsoft Authenticator stop password support?

Microsoft Authenticator houses your password and can register with all Microsoft accounts using facial recognition like PIN, Windows Hello, or other biometric data such as fingerprints. The authenticator can be used in other ways, such as verifying that you are logged in if you forget your password, or using two-factor authentication as an additional layer of security for your account. In June, the company stopped users to add passwords to their authenticators.

Starting this month, you will not be able to use the Autofill password feature. And next month, the saved password will no longer be available.

If you want to use a password instead of PassKeys, you can save it to Microsoft Edge. However, CNET experts recommend adopting PassKey during this transition. “PassKeys authenticate users using public key encryption to authenticate users, rather than creating their own (often weak or reused) passwords for users to access their online accounts,” Tomaschek said.

Why is PassKeys a better alternative to passwords?

So, what exactly is it? PassKey? This is the credentials created by the Fast Identity Online Alliance that uses biometric data or PIN to verify your identity and access your account. Consider logging in to your account using your fingerprint or face ID. It is generally safer than using easy-to-guess passwords Potentially affected by phishing attacks.

“While you can crack passwords, PassKeys requires both publicly available people and locally stored private keys to authenticate users. This helps reduce the risk of phishing, brute force, or casualties from accumulating qualifications.”

PassKeys are not stored on a server such as passwords. Instead, they are stored only on your personal device. More conveniently, this means remembering your password and Password Manager.

How to set up PassKey in Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft said in a May 1st Blog Post Automatically detect and set up the best PassKey and create a default sign-in option. “If your account has a password and a ‘one-time code’, you will be prompted to sign in with a one-time code instead of a password. Once you’ve signed in, you will be asked to register with PassKey. The next time you sign in, you will be asked to sign in with PassKey,” according to a blog post.

To set up a new PassKey, open the Authenticator app on your phone. Tap your account and select “Set up PassKey.” You will be prompted to log in with your existing credentials. After logging in, you can set up PassKey.

Other Password Manager Alternatives

Microsoft will remove all your passwords in two weeks, so you will need a new location to keep your passwords securely. There are a few in Tomaschek Best Password Manager Recommendations After some testing and reviews.

The most recommended is Bitwarden For that transparency. It is open source and is audited annually. From a price point of view, the free plan allows you to store infinite passwords across unlimited devices. The free plan also includes features that most password managers charge, such as password sharing and username and password generators.

Bitwarden’s upgraded plans also have other upgrade features that are worth the cost.

Personally, Tomaschek has been using 1Password for a while and I like the interface and family planning. Second on the list, but Tomaschek says it’s as good as Bitwarden.