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Set up a Passkey

What is a Passkey?​

A Passkey is a way to verify your identity without a password. Instead of typing a code, you confirm it's you using something you already have — your fingerprint reader, your face, or a physical security key.

Under the hood, Passkeys use a security standard called WebAuthn. You don't need to understand the technology — just know that it's the same kind of secure login used by Apple, Google, and Microsoft.

Why use a Passkey?

  • Faster — one touch or glance, no typing.
  • Phishing-proof — Passkeys only work on the real Eigenoid portal, so fake sites can't steal your login.
  • Nothing to remember or lose — no codes, no recovery sheets.

What you need​

A supported browser:

Any modern browser released in 2023 or later (Chrome, Edge, Safari, Firefox) with WebAuthn / passkey support.

A way to verify your identity (one of these):

  • Fingerprint reader — Touch ID on Mac, fingerprint sensor on Windows PC or Android phone
  • Face recognition — Face ID on iPhone/iPad, Windows Hello on a compatible laptop
  • PIN — Windows Hello PIN (fallback if no biometrics)
  • Security key — a physical key such as a YubiKey (must support FIDO2)
note

Passkeys are tied to the device or security key you register them on. If you register a Passkey on your laptop, it will only work on that laptop (unless your browser or OS syncs Passkeys across devices, as iCloud Keychain and Google Password Manager do).

How to set it up​

You can enrol a Passkey in two situations:

  • During invitation claim — the portal prompts you to choose at least one method when you first follow your invitation link.
  • Later, from the Security page — after you're already signed in, you can add more methods at any time.

Step 1 — Open the Security page​

In the Eigenoid portal, click your profile icon (top right) and select Security. Then click Add Passkey.

Screenshot: Security page with "Add Passkey" button

Step 2 — Follow your browser's prompt​

Your browser will show a prompt asking how you want to save the Passkey. The exact appearance depends on your device and browser, but you'll typically see options like:

  • "Use Face ID" or "Use Touch ID" (Mac, iPhone, iPad)
  • "Use Windows Hello" (Windows)
  • "Use your phone or tablet" (Android)
  • "Use a security key" (YubiKey or similar)

Choose the one that applies to you and follow the on-screen steps.

Screenshot: Browser prompt to create a Passkey (example shown: macOS Touch ID)

Step 3 — Give your Passkey a name​

After the browser confirms the Passkey was created, the portal will ask you for a friendly name — something that helps you remember which device or key it is. Examples:

  • MacBook Pro (work)
  • iPhone 15
  • YubiKey 5 — desk

This name is just for your reference. Click Save to finish.

Screenshot: Passkey name field after successful enrollment

Your Passkey is now enrolled. You'll see it listed on your Security page.

Logging in with your Passkey​

When you log in, enter your email address on the portal. Choose Passkey from the list of your enrolled methods. Your browser will show the same prompt you saw during setup. Touch, look, or tap your security key — and you're in.

Can I have more than one Passkey?​

Yes, and it's a good idea. We recommend registering one Passkey per device you use regularly. That way, you can always log in from your laptop, phone, or tablet independently.

To add another Passkey, go to Security → Add Passkey from the new device.

Troubleshooting​

The browser prompt didn't appear​

  • Make sure you're on a modern browser — see the version requirements above.
  • Make sure the page is loaded over HTTPS (the address bar shows a padlock). Passkeys don't work on plain HTTP.
  • Try a different browser. Some corporate network configurations block WebAuthn prompts.

My security key isn't recognised​

Make sure your key supports FIDO2. Older U2F-only keys may not work. Check the manufacturer's documentation — most YubiKey 5 series and later support FIDO2.

My Passkey doesn't work on a new device​

Passkeys are device-specific unless your browser or OS syncs them (e.g., iCloud Keychain on Apple devices, Google Password Manager on Android). If you're on a new device where your Passkey isn't available:

  1. Sign in using your authenticator app on a device where it's still available.
  2. Go to Security → Add Passkey and register a Passkey on the new device.
  3. Optionally remove the old device's Passkey once you no longer need it.
tip

Is my fingerprint or face sent to Eigenoid? No. Your biometric data never leaves your device. WebAuthn only sends a cryptographic proof that you were present — your physical characteristics stay on your device at all times.