Google continues to work on a future without passwords. For this reason, as of today, users will be able to generate access keys, a new way of authentication that works with your fingerprint, face or physical security key. In this way, you can forget about typing your password on devices previously authorized to use this function.
How exactly does it work? As they describe, this technology synchronizes all user passwords with all previously authorized devices through the cloud. Through pairs of cryptographic keys, people can log in to different websites using the PIN code or biometric methods of the device where they are.
In theory, this makes it more difficult for cybercriminals to access user accounts remotely, since they need to have the device and the access codes of the users in hand. Meanwhile, methods like two-factor authentication remain vulnerable to hacker-style attacks. phishing.
This change comes almost a year after companies like Google, Apple and Microsoft signed their cooperation with the FIDO Alliance. with this initiative seeks to improve passwordless login across devices, ecosystems and browsers; everything in a fluid way and without interruptions.
How to activate the access keys and replace the password in your Google account
Access keys are compatible with macOS Ventura, Windows 10, or ChromeOS 109 or higher versions. On mobile devices You must have iOS 16 or Android 9, As minimum. If you want to install the access key in a physical security device, it will have to be compatible with the FIDO2 protocol.
On the other hand, the supported browsers are Safari 16, Edge 109 and Chrome 109. If you have a lower version of any of them, you will not be able to install the access key.
To create an access key, follow these steps:
From the phone
The first step will be to enter the official link of Google. From this website you can create access keys for your different devices.
Once you sign in with your Google account, you will see the configuration screen. After reading everything in detail, tap the blue button Continue.
A message will appear warning you that an access key is about to be configured. In the case of iOS, it will notify you that these keys will be saved in the iCloud Keychain so that you can use them on all your Apple devices. press Continue when you have finished reading.
Ready. The access key has already been created. You can now use your fingerprint, face, or lock key to verify your identity with Google.
on computer
In case of carrying out the process from the computer, the steps will be quite similar. Enter the same link that we leave you above and log in If necessary.
Google will show you a new screen where you can see the access keys you have created so far. To generate your own from your computer, press the button + Create an access key.
Now A window will appear asking you to enter the password. unlock your computer. Write it down and tap Enter.
You should be all set by now. The access key for your computer will have been configured And every time you need to sign in to a Google service, you just have to type the unlock password. If you have a device with Windows Hello or a Mac with Touch ID, you can choose to access with these last methods.