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Apple's latest software update has brought a range of updates and fixes for iOS and iPadOS 16.3, macOS Ventura 13.2, as well as watchOS 9.3.
But one of the update's new features could be particularly important for helping you manage the cybersecurity of your Apple Mac or iPhone and keeping your usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information safe from hackers -- Security Keys for Apple ID.
Security Keys for Apple ID allows you to use a hardware key as an extra layer of authentication to help keep your Mac safe from unauthorized access.
Also: The best security keys: Protect your online accounts
Hardware keys commonly look like small USB thumb drives and provide an additional layer of multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access to your device and accounts.
Depending on the model, the hardware security key either plugs into your Mac or iPhone with a USB-A, USB-C or lightening cable, or uses a near-field communication (NFC) to make the link. If you have a security key registered to your accounts, it's difficult for an attacker to gain access.
Like any form of multi-factor authentication (MFA), Security Keys for Apple ID is designed to ensure that you're the only one who can access your account -- in this case, your Apple ID account.
If used correctly, it can provide you with an extra layer of protection against phishing, social-engineering scams, and many other cyberattacks. The idea is that even if a hacker does know your password, they can't access your account without also having access to the physical key.
The first layer of authentication is your Apple ID username and password. In this case, the physical key is the second layer of authentication -- you need it in your possession to access your account, something that prevents attackers from remotely stealing MFA access codes sent using an app or SMS.
Because while MFA applications do help to keep accounts secure, hackers can still remotely intercept codes.
If your account is protected with Security Keys for Apple ID, it's much harder for someone to access your account, because not only would they need your password, they'd need physical access to your device and your hardware key.
Before you can use Security Keys for Apple ID, there are several forms of hardware and software you'll need to set it up. These are:
Security Keys for Apple ID works with any FIDO Certified security key. Examples given by Apple include:
Also: YubiKey 5C NFC: The USB security key that everyone's been waiting for
Other FIDO Certified security keys are available. You should make sure that the key is certified and that there's a connector that works with your Mac or iPhone. You need to add and maintain at least two keys to use Security Keys for Apple ID -- and you can add up to six.
Open the Settings app.
From the Apple menu , choose System Settings, then click your name.
If you decide you no longer want to use a hardware key to secure your account, to stop using Security Keys for Apple ID: