Microsoft Authenticator's Password Manager Is Being Discontinued, Prompting My Transition To A Superior Alternative

I have utilized Microsoft Authenticator as my primary password manager; however, with its impending discontinuation, it is imperative to transition to a superior solution that can effectively safeguard my credentials.

Rationale Behind Microsoft Authenticator's Elimination of Its Password Manager

Microsoft Authenticator's password manager was a convenient utility that integrated a multi-factor authentication application with a password management system. Microsoft is eliminating the functionality to prioritize Edge's integrated password manager. If you are still use Microsoft Authenticator, it is time to commence exporting your passwords.

The autofill and password creation functionalities of the tool were commendable; but, commencing June 2025, Microsoft Authenticator will cease to store new passwords. Autofill functionality will cease in July 2025, and any stored passwords will be inaccessible after August 2025. Your stored financial information will be destroyed in July, while unsaved created passwords will be deleted in August.

Microsoft advocates for the utilization of Edge's integrated password manager, which further provides autofill functionalities. The corporation did not furnish a definitive rationale for the removal of the capability from Microsoft Authenticator; nonetheless, considering Microsoft's support material emphasizes the use of Edge, it is plausible that Microsoft now intends for users to utilize Edge on their mobile devices as well.

What are the issues with Microsoft Edge?

Microsoft Edge is an exceedingly undervalued browser. I maintain it on my PC and Linux desktop as a secondary browser, while it serves as the primary browser on my smartphone. The concept of integrating my browser and password manager should be fairly attractive, correct?

Not completely.

Browser-based password managers are indeed convenient. Your browser is the primary interface for engaging with services that necessitate authentication, and having your credentials readily available is invaluable. This is particularly applicable if you possess lengthy, intricate, and distinctive passwords for each website, as is advisable.

Nonetheless, browser-based password managers are not the most secure choice, particularly given that specialized password managers offer considerably enhanced security and features. Browser-based password managers can be utilized with certain care; nonetheless, I am not at ease with storing essential credentials within them. This is another reason to completely avoid utilizing browser-based password managers.

Reasons for Utilizing Proton Pass

With browser-based password managers no longer viable, your sole choice is to select a new password manager. Currently, numerous password managers are available, but your selection will primarily depend on your particular needs and your willingness to invest financially.

I utilize the complimentary tier of Proton Pass for compelling reasons.

The autofill functionality operates seamlessly on both desktop and mobile platforms. I have not encountered any instances when Proton Pass failed to autofill my password. Another advantage of Proton Pass' autofill feature is that it verifies your consent before to populating passwords in a login field, and the prompt is structured to minimize the risk of inadvertent selection.

In addition to functioning as a password organizer, it also provides email aliases. The free version permits a maximum of 10 aliases simultaneously, however I have not encountered a necessity for further ones. This option is undoubtedly useful if you frequently register for websites and prefer not to disclose your actual email address each time.

Custom fields are available during password configuration. This indicates that I can store supplementary information adjacent to my login credentials for a website. If you like to record information discreetly without it appearing in your notes application, Proton Pass is an excellent solution.

Other, perhaps more significant capabilities, including the integrated two-factor authenticator, dark web monitoring, and password sharing, are available in Proton Pass but require a membership for access. I refrain from utilizing these capabilities as I have predominantly configured my accounts with Microsoft Authenticator, and transferring them to Proton is cumbersome. Nonetheless, if you desire a singular application for all functionalities, that alternative is available.

Ultimately, I am significantly immersed in the Proton ecology at this juncture. I utilize Proton's VPN, email service, and cloud storage. Thus, should I opt for a membership in the future, it will provide greater value for money relative to certain alternative password managers.

However, this does not imply that alternative solutions such as 1Password, Bitwarden, or Avira Password Manager are worse in any respect. They may fulfill your criteria more effectively than Proton Pass, so do not hesitate to explore several options before finalizing one and migrating all your passwords.

In addition to storing passwords, password managers have other practical applications that may be unfamiliar to you. If you are already utilizing Microsoft Authenticator and are concerned about its impending obsolescence as a password manager, there are plenty superior options available.