Signing in to an online account usually requires you to enter a password. While you could use a password manager to manage all of your complex passwords without having to remember them, Microsoft goes one step ahead in removing passwords from the equation altogether. The move is part of the company’s efforts to lay the groundwork for a passwordless future. In fact, you can now remove the password from your Microsoft account and in this guide we will teach you how.
Use Microsoft Account Without Password (2021)
You will need to install the Microsoft Authenticator app (Android, iOS) when you’re ready to switch to a passwordless Microsoft account. Sign in to the authentication app using your Microsoft account and follow the steps below to remove the password from your account.
Steps to Migrate to Passwordless Microsoft Account
- Register your Microsoft account and Click on ‘Security’ from the top bar.
2. Under the fundamentals of security, You will find ‘Advanced security options’. Click on ‘Get started’ To view all security settings
3. Under Additional security, look for a new ‘Passwordless account’ option and Click the ‘Open’ button To remove the password from your Microsoft account
4. You will now see a pop-up window guiding you through the installation process. Click ‘Next’ to go further.
5. You will soon see a prompt asking you to check the Authenticator app on your phone to confirm the password removal request.
6. Open the Authenticator app on your phone and Tap ‘Confirm’ to confirm the request.
7. That’s it. You have successfully removed the password from your Microsoft account. Going forward, you can sign in to your Microsoft account using the Authenticator app, physical security keys, or Windows Hello biometrics.
Apps and Services Not Supporting Microsoft Passwordless Account
Switching to a Microsoft account without a password may break some apps and services. If you use one of the services listed below, you must continue to use a password:
- Xbox 360
- Office 2010 or earlier
- Office for Mac 2011 or earlier
- Products and services that use IMAP and POP email services
- Windows 8.1, Windows 7 or earlier versions
- Some Windows features including Remote Desktop and Credential Manager
- Some command line and task scheduler services
Leave Passwords Behind with a Passwordless Microsoft Account
So, these are the necessary steps to switch to a passwordless Microsoft account. As you can see, the process is pretty simple and should be convenient as long as you don’t lose your phone. If you no longer have access to the Authenticator app, try a recovery method such as a backup email address or text message. If you’re not ready to leap into a passwordless future, consider using strong passwords and switch to a good password manager.
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