Microsoft is killing off a key Edge security feature — are you ready for the switch?

News
By published

Say goodbye to custom passwords in Edge. Microsoft is phasing out the feature, automatically transitioning users to device authentication.

In this photo illustration a Microsoft Edge logo of a web browser developed by Microsoft is seen on a smartphone and a pc screen.
Edge will soon lose its custom password support, which could be a dealbreaker for some. (Image credit: Getty Images | SOPA)

Microsoft is set to make an important change to how Microsoft Edge's built-in password manager works via a new browser update. For context, the feature allows users to save and sync passkeys across their Windows PCs, making signing in easier and safer.

If you've interacted with Edge's built-in password manager, you know that it lets you secure and autofill your passwords using Windows Hello or a standalone password. However, Microsoft has announced its plan to discontinue the standalone password option via the next feature update for Microsoft Edge in favor of Windows Hello (via Neowin).

In Microsoft Edge 146, users will no longer be able to create a new custom primary password in Edge Settings edge://settings/autofill/passwords/settings. Users who already have a custom primary password configured will see a warning that the feature won't be available from June 4, 2026. On June 4, 2026, any users who are still using a custom primary password will be automatically migrated to device authentication.

Microsoft

Edge's built-in password manager lets you secure passwords and autofill with two security options: Windows Hello or a standalone password. The latter is now on its way out, as Microsoft decided to discontinue the primary password in favor of the device sign-in or Windows Hello.

Elsewhere, Microsoft recently shipped Edge 145 to the Beta Channel, announcing its plan to pull support for macOS 12 Monterey.

Microsoft is ending support for primary password in Edge, transitioning users to device authentication

It's still unclear what kind of reception Microsoft will get from users for discontinuing the standalone password security option for Edge's built-in password manager, but Windows Hello seems like a more convenient option since it supports a biometric login system with your face, iris, or fingerprint (or a PIN).

Do you support Microsoft removing the custom primary password option in Edge’s password manager?

Click to join us on r/WindowsCentral

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Kevin Okemwa
Kevin Okemwa
Contributor

Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.