How to Delete a Google Passkey From a Desktop or Mobile

A passkey is a modern form of authentication that replaces passwords, providing a more secure way to access Google accounts. To switch to two-factor authentication (2FA) or another security feature offered by Google, you must remove your passkey. In this article, we will guide you on how to delete a Google passkey from your device.

Using a passkey provides extra account protection. However, it’s crucial to understand your options and make informed decisions about account security. Switching to alternative authentication methods may be more convenient based on your preferences. Before starting, let’s clarify the difference between 2FA and Passkey. Note: You don’t need to delete your Passkey from both desktop and mobile. You can choose any method mentioned, and it will sync with other devices simultaneously.

What Is the Difference between Passkey and 2FA

A passkey is a user authentication method that replaces passwords. It uses biometric data, like fingerprints or facial recognition, to create a unique key stored on the user’s device.

Passkeys are different from passwords because they are specific to a website or app and are not stored or transmitted on servers. They offer strong security and are resistant to duplication, adding an extra layer of protection to user accounts.

Two-Factor authentication (2FA) enhances security by requiring users to provide two types of authentication factors: something they know (like a password) and something they have (such as a mobile device or security token). 2FA methods can include SMS codes or app-based authenticators. By combining these factors, 2FA significantly enhances security by making unauthorized access more challenging.

Both passkeys and 2FA offer improved security compared to traditional passwords. However, 2FA provides additional assurance, requiring users to authenticate through multiple means. Now let’s proceed with the steps.

Deleting a Google Passkey on a desktop is easy. Follow these instructions:

1. Open Google in any web browser and click on your profile picture in the top right corner. From the drop-down, select ‘Manage your Google Account.’

You will be taken to your Google Account details page.

Step 2: Select Security from the left pane.

Step 3: Scroll down to the ‘How you sign in to Google’ section and select the Passkeys option.

Step 4: Use your Passkey to confirm your identity; click Continue.

Step 5: Click the Continue button and authenticate the Passkey through your fingerprint, pin, or Windows Hello.

Once authenticated, go to the Passkeys page. Step 6: In the ‘Passkeys you created’ section, click on the cross (X) icon next to the Passkey you want to remove.

Step 7: In the ‘Remove this passkey?’ pop-up, choose Remove.

That’s it. The Passkey will be removed from your Google account. You can add it back whenever you want, at your convenience. If you don’t have access to your desktop, you can execute the steps using your mobile.

How to Delete a Device’s Google Passkey on a Mobile

To delete your Google Passkey, follow these simple steps on your Android device or iPhone:

1. Open the Google app and log in if you haven’t already. Then, tap on your profile picture in the top right corner.

Step 2: Select ‘Manage your Google Account’ from the drop-down and go to Security in the Google Account screen.

Step 3: Scroll down, and under ‘How you sign in to Google’, tap Passkeys.

In-browser will authenticate your account and confirm your identity.

Step 4: Tap Continue and authenticate your account.

Once authenticated, you will be taken to the Passkeys page. Scroll down and tap the cross (X) icon next to the Passkey you want to remove from your account. In the pop-up, select Remove.

You have successfully removed the Passkey from your Google account. If you have multiple passkeys to remove, you will need to remove them individually by following the mentioned steps.

FAQs on Deleting Google Passkey

1. Is it safe to use passkeys?

Yes, using passkeys is safe as it adds an extra layer of security compared to traditional passwords and significantly improves account security. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and take additional measures to protect your personal information.

2. Do passkeys replace passwords?

No, passkeys do not replace passwords. They serve as an alternative to passwords. We believe that passkeys still have a long way to go before they can fully replace passwords.

Go Back to Your Passwords

Knowing how to delete Google Passkey gives you the power to enhance your account security. By understanding the available options and benefits, you can customize your security measures according to your needs. Additionally, consider reading about adding passwords to Google password manager.