Firefox now works with Windows Hello for web authentication

Microsoft and Mozilla are both working to make passwords a thing of the past, and the latest version of Firefox is a big step towards that future. Firefox version 66 includes support for Windows Hello for web authentication, allowing you to log in to websites that support the latest FIDO2 standards for passwordless logins.

Currently, the feature is only available with Firefox 66 for Windows Insiders testing the Windows 10 19H1 update in the Fast ring. If you meet both requirements, however, you'll be able to use a variety of supported authentication methods supported by Windows Hello to sign into websites. "That includes face or fingerprint biometrics, and a wide range of external security keys via the CTAP2 protocol from FIDO2, as well as existing deployed CTAP1 FIDO U2F-style security keys," Mozilla says in a blog post.

Microsoft has been vocal in its efforts to kill passwords due to the security issues that they pose. In November, the company added support for FIDO2 security keys as a login method for Microsoft accounts, allowing users to ditch their passwords.

Firefox 66 is available to download starting today. Windows Insiders on the Fast ring can try its Windows Hello support starting now. Everyone else will automatically gain access to the feature when the Windows 10 19H1 update ships later this spring.