Introduction to macOS Passkeys

Passkeys offer a modern, passwordless solution that enhances both security and user experience by replacing traditional passwords with biometric authentication or a device PIN. For macOS users, setting up passkeys means utilizing a secure and phishing-resistant login method that integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem. This guide will walk you through how to enable and manage passkeys on macOS, including key requirements, benefits, and the setup process for different macOS versions.

Read the full user guide here

Requirements for Setting Up Passkeys on macOS

Before activating passkeys on macOS, ensure your device meets these prerequisites:

1. iCloud Keychain Enabled: Passkeys rely on iCloud Keychain for secure storage and synchronization. If not enabled, you can turn it on via System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud > Passwords and Keychain.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Ensure that 2FA is activated for your Apple ID. This step is mandatory to protect your passkey data.
3. macOS Version Compatibility: Your Mac needs to be running macOS Ventura (macOS 13) or a later version to support passkeys effectively.

Setting Up Passkeys on macOS 13 (Ventura) and Earlier

To set up passkeys on macOS 13 (Ventura) and earlier, follow these steps:

1. Open System Settings and navigate to Passwords.
2. Click on Create Passkey for the app or website you want to enable.
3. Complete the biometric or PIN verification using Touch ID or Face ID. Save the passkey, which will be securely stored in your iCloud Keychain.

Once created, your passkeys are automatically available on all other macOS devices linked to the same Apple ID.

Setting Up Passkeys on macOS 15 and Later

macOS 15 introduced a standalone Passwords app, providing a more refined passkey management interface:

1. Open the Passwords app from your Applications folder.
2. Click on the Passkeys tab and select Add New Passkey.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup, using biometric verification or your device password.
4. Manage, edit, or delete your passkeys within this app.

With macOS 15, the storage location changes slightly, but the process remains intuitive.

Logging In Using Passkeys on macOS

To log in with a passkey, open the app or website you want to access and select the Passkey Login option:

1. Choose your saved passkey from the suggestion list.
2. Authenticate using your Face ID, Touch ID, or device PIN.
3. The passkey will complete the login process automatically.

If you're logging in from a non-Apple device, you can use cross-device authentication through QR codes or Bluetooth.

Why Use Passkeys on macOS?

1. Enhanced Security: Passkeys are resistant to phishing attacks and credential theft due to their reliance on public-key cryptography.
2. Improved User Experience: With a single biometric check or PIN, users can skip the hassle of remembering multiple complex passwords.
3. Seamless Integration Across Devices: Once a passkey is created on one Apple device, it becomes available on all devices using the same Apple ID.

Integrating Passkeys with Password Managers

Although passkeys are tightly integrated into the Apple ecosystem, users can also synchronize passkeys across non-Apple devices using third-party password managers like 1Password or Dashlane:

1. Open your preferred password manager that supports passkeys.
2. Follow the instructions to import or sync your passkeys.
3. Use passkeys across multiple platforms without compromising security.

Conclusion

Activating passkeys on macOS is a straightforward process that significantly improves both security and ease of use. With enhanced protection against phishing and seamless integration across Apple devices, passkeys represent the future of authentication. 
For a deeper analysis into macOS passkeys and more advanced setup options, visit the full article on How to Enable Passkeys on macOS.