Using Apple Keychain (now Passwords)

by | Nov 28, 2024 | Tutorials | 0 comments

Apple Keychain, also known as iCloud Keychain, securely stores and manages your passwords, credit card details, and Wi-Fi credentials across Apple devices. Here’s how to set it up and use it step by step:

Step 1: Enable iCloud Keychain on Your Apple Devices

On iPhone or iPad:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap your Apple ID (your name at the top).
  3. Select iCloud.
  4. Tap Passwords and Keychain.
  5. Toggle Sync this iPhone to ON (green).
  6. If prompted, enter your Apple ID password and follow the instructions.

On Mac:

  1. Click the Apple menu  and select System Settings.
  2. Click your Apple ID at the top left.
  3. Select iCloud > Passwords and Keychain.
  4. Toggle Sync this Mac to ON.
  5. If prompted, enter your Apple ID password and confirm.

Step 2: Auto-Save & Autofill Passwords

On iPhone or iPad:

  1. Go to Settings > Passwords.
  2. Tap Password Options.
  3. Turn on AutoFill Passwords & Passkeys.
  4. Choose iCloud Keychain as your default password manager.

On Mac:

  1. Open System Settings > Passwords.
  2. Enable AutoFill passwords and select iCloud Keychain.

Now, whenever you log into a website or app, Safari or your device will prompt you to Save Password.

Step 3: View and Edit Saved Passwords

On iPhone or iPad:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Passwords.
  3. Use Face ID/Touch ID or enter your device passcode.
  4. Select the account to view, copy, or edit the password.

On Mac:

  1. Open System Settings > Passwords.
  2. Authenticate with Touch ID or your Mac’s password.
  3. Click on the account to view or edit details.

Step 4: Generate Secure Passwords

  1. When creating a new account in Safari or an app, iCloud Keychain suggests a strong password.
  2. Tap Use Strong Password to save it automatically.

Step 5: Sync Passwords Across Devices

  • As long as iCloud Keychain is enabled on all your Apple devices, passwords will sync automatically.

Step 6: Use Keychain on a Windows PC (Optional)

  1. Download iCloud for Windows from the Microsoft Store.
  2. Sign in with your Apple ID.
  3. Enable Passwords and install the iCloud Passwords extension for Chrome or Edge.

Step 7: Remove or Delete Saved Passwords

On iPhone/iPad/Mac:

  1. Open Passwords in Settings/System Settings.
  2. Select the account.
  3. Tap Delete Password to remove it.

Now you’re all set to use iCloud Keychain to manage passwords securely across your Apple devices!

View more information on Apple's site