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Windows Hello in Windows 10 Could Mean No More Passwords — Is That A Good Thing?

By Toni Matthews
Published on: 01:16 PST, Jul 30, 2015

Could passwords become passé? That’s what Windows Hello in Windows 10 could mean for Microsoft customers. According to MSN, a few “lucky users” that upgraded or purchased Windows 10 found that the new feature was available. Windows Hello requested to “lock eyes” before letting them log-in.

“Do so, and it will activate a 3-D face scan that signs in users in seconds, no password required. The Windows team calls this snappy new login feature ‘Hello.’ “

Windows Hello reportedly uses the same technology that Microsoft developed with the Kinect camera for both Xbox One and Xbox 360. There are millions of passwords created (and forgotten) by Microsoft customers. Why not skip the flimsy text altogether in favor of something more reliable — like your face?

If you’re camera-shy, you can also opt to use just your eyes or fingers to gain access to your Windows 10 account.

Of course, it’s worth mentioning that the average Microsoft customer isn’t the primary target for this new technology. CNN Money wrote that program is mainly aimed at government agencies and businesses. It’s not surprising when you consider the major security breaches that such organizations have suffered recently.

Microsoft also hopes that Windows Hello will go beyond the login window. Should websites opt to use similar technology, you may find that online passwords are no longer needed, as well. If this catches on, we could be in the final days of passwords as we know it.

Understandably, not everyone is excited about this possibility.

In the comment section of the related PC World article, a few persons take issue with the Windows 10 program. Commenter Brian Tokarski remarked that a camera smudge would keep you permanently locked out of your account. Another person worried that thieves would find a way to replicate finger and eye information.

Windows Hello could change the digital security game, but it’s apparent that Microsoft is going to have to do quite a bit of work to bring everyone around. For the particularly nervous, passwords will still be an option, as will backup pins.

If you’ve read up on the Windows 10 feature and want to get started immediately, then here’s how to set up Windows Hello.

“Go to Start, then Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options to set up Windows Hello. In addition to selecting a sign-in method, you’ll also set up a PIN as a backup.”

Have you used Windows Hello? Are you excited (or terrified) by the new Windows 10 feature? Share your thoughts below!

[Image Credit: Joshuarshah / CC-BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons]

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