How to set up a Passkey to secure your Google Workspace account.

Passkeys, a secure replacement for Passwords, offer a convenient login experience. Unlike passwords, they don't require remembering or storing and don't need to be entered each time you want to log in. This eliminates the risk of someone tricking you into giving away your login details, providing a stress-free login process.

Passkeys are digital credential assets on your device that are automatically entered when you need to log into a service like Google Workspace. You authenticate with your pin, fingerprint or face scan before using the Passkey (just as when you unlock your phone). Once you have successfully authenticated, the Passkey gives you access to your account.

Passkeys are designed with enhanced security features, making using them on a fake login page impossible. This robust security measure makes it very hard for a scammer or hacker to get access to your online account. At Kimbley IT, we have always mandated two-step verification with Google Workspace. Passkeys make the process even more secure, less annoying, and more accessible for logging into your account.

How to set up a Passkey for your Google Workspace.

For you to create a Passkye for your Google Workspace account, the administrator of your Google Workspace account will need to enable the option to use Passkeys. If you are part of a company that uses Google Workspace by Kimbley IT, then Passkeys are enabled, and you can follow the steps below:

1. Go to the Passkeys setup page:

   • Visit https://myaccount.google.com/signinoptions/passkeys

2. Create a Passkey:

   • Click on "Create a passkey."

   • Choose the device where you want to create the Passkey (e.g., your phone, a security key).

   • Follow the on-screen instructions. This usually involves:

     • Phone: Using your phone's screen lock (fingerprint, face recognition, PIN) to verify your identity.

     • Security key: Inserting your security key and entering its PIN or using its biometric sensor.

3. (Optional) Create Passkeys on other devices:

   • Repeat the process on other devices you want to use to sign in with passkeys.

How to Sign in with a Passkey:

1. Go to the Google sign-in page:

   • Visit any Google service (e.g., Gmail, Drive) and click "Sign in."

2. Enter your username:

   • Type in your Google Workspace email address.

3. Choose your Passkey:

   • You might see a list of available passkeys. Select the one you want to use.

4. Verify your identity:

   • Follow the on-screen instructions to unlock your device (using fingerprint, face recognition, PIN, or security key).