If I change my computer, do I need to move my passkey as well?

When switching to a new computer, you might need to consider how to handle passkeys, depending on the services and platforms you’re using. Passkeys are primarily used for secure logins with two-factor authentication (2FA) or biometric authentication. Here are some key points to consider when migrating passkeys:

1. If You Use iCloud or Google Account

• Both Apple and Google provide passkey synchronization across multiple devices through iCloud and Google accounts.
• If you’re using iCloud to manage your passkeys, once you sign in to your new Mac or iPhone, the passkeys will automatically sync across your devices.
• Similarly, with a Google account, signing in on a new device will sync your passkeys if they were saved there.

2. If You Use Other Passkey Management Systems

• If you’re using a different passkey manager or app, you may need to log in to the new device and ensure data migration through that service.
• Many password managers (like 1Password, Dashlane, etc.) offer cloud sync, so when you sign in on a new device, your passkeys will automatically transfer.

3. Backup and Restore

• If you’re not using iCloud or Google to sync your passkeys, you may need to manually back up and restore them when moving to a new device. The procedure depends on the service or app you’re using, so it’s a good idea to check the specific instructions.

In Summary

In most cases, passkeys sync via cloud services like iCloud or Google, making it easy to move to a new computer. After signing in with your Apple ID or Google account on the new device, your passkeys will automatically sync. However, if you’re using a different password manager, you may need to follow its specific migration steps to transfer your passkeys.