Passkeys are quick and easy to set up, with the bonus that it will be quicker for you to log in to your account going forward.
Here you will find FAQs about setting up and using your passkey.
Find out how to set up your passkey
- How do I install the Microsoft Authenticator app?
- How do I create a passkey in the Microsoft Authenticator app
- I am using a device with Windows - How do I create a passkey using Windows Hello?
- I am using a Mac computer - How do I create a passkey on my MacOS device?
- My device does not have Bluetooth – can I use a Passkey?
- I need an alternative passkey option
- What security keys does 51³Ô¹ÏÍø support?
- What should I do if I get a new device, or if my current one is damaged, lost or stolen?
What is the Microsoft Authenticator app?
It is a free mobile app which you can download from or stores.
It secures your online accounts by managing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and enabling passwordless sign-ins. It replaces traditional passwords with biometric locks (Face ID/Fingerprint) or push notifications for improved protection against hackers.
How do I install the app? Get instructions at Secure my account – authentication methods
See instructionsSecure my account – authentication methods on this page.
is a more personal, secure, and passwordless way to sign in to your Windows 10 or Windows 11 devices. Instead of typing a traditional password, it allows you to unlock your Windows device using biometric authentication, such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, or a secure PIN.
Passkeys are automatically created for ICT managed Mac devices, so it shoudl alrady be set up when you receive it from ICT.
Using Microsoft’s Authenticator App requires Bluetooth, you cannot set up a passkey if your device does not have Bluetooth.
Here are some options you can utilise if you do not have Bluetooth:
- For any ICT-managed desktop device, you can request a USB Bluetooth dongle from the ICT Service Desk
- Or set up a Passkey on your smartphone device (See Passkey and device compatability FAQs)
- Request a .
If you cannot, or will not, use your smartphone or your 51³Ô¹ÏÍø or personal device to create a passkey for any reason, then you can request a hardware key (FIDO2), please .
To ensure we can support the operational rollout of passkeys across 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, we have limited supported application-generated keys and FIDO2-generated keys to the following:
Software-based
- Microsoft Authenticator ap, this is free to download from and stores.
Hardware keys (FIDO2)
Hardware key options available:
- OneSpan DIGIPASS FX7
- OneSpan DIGIPASS FX1 BIO
- YubiKey 5 Series security keys running firmware version 5.7 - USB-A, USB-C & Lightning/USB-C
- YubiKey 5 Series nano series of security keys running firmware version 5.4 - USB-A & USB-C
- YubiKey Bio Series running firmware version 5.7 - USB-A & USB-C
- YubiKey Security Key series security keys firmware version 5.7
Lost or stolen devices
- Contact the ICT Service Desk to advise of the theft or loss.
- Ensure that this device is removed from your accounts.
New device
- See Passkey and device compatibility FAQs.
- Ensure that any previous devices are removed from your accounts.
Passkey set up FAQs
Support and further guidance
- Contact the ICT Service Desk for general passkeys enquiries and support
- (ubikey/fido key).
- Report suspicious or unexpected behaviours to ICT Security.
- For anything related to our Passkey Champions network contact Ingrid Joannou
- Keep up with the latest cyber guidance on our Be Secure webpages.