How to Manage Passwords Using the New Passwords App in macOS

macOS Sequoia (Version 15) introduces a dedicated Passwords app that simplifies password management by consolidating all your login credentials, Wi-Fi passwords, passkeys, and verification codes in one secure location. Previously, passwords were scattered across Safari, System Settings, and Keychain Access. The new Passwords app centralizes this information, making it easier to access, manage, and secure your digital accounts.

Opening and Setting Up the Passwords App

To open the Passwords app, the quickest method is using Spotlight Search. Press Command + Space, type “Passwords,” and press Enter. Alternatively, navigate to the Applications folder in Finder, locate the Passwords app, and double-click to open it.

Upon launching the Passwords app, you’ll be prompted to unlock it using your Mac’s admin password or Touch ID. This ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive information.

When the app opens for the first time, you’ll have the option to import passwords from another password manager in CSV format. If you have existing passwords stored elsewhere, select “Import Passwords” from the File menu and choose the appropriate CSV file. Imported passwords will be added alongside your existing ones without overwriting data.

After import, the app will ask permission to send notifications. Allowing notifications ensures you receive timely alerts about compromised passwords or important security updates.

Saving and Auto-Filling Passwords

The Passwords app integrates directly with Safari, automatically prompting you to save login credentials when you sign into websites. After saving, Safari will automatically fill these credentials on future visits, streamlining your login process. To confirm auto-fill, simply authenticate using Touch ID or your admin password.

Manually Creating and Editing Passwords

To manually add a new password, open the Passwords app and select File > New Password or use the shortcut Command + N. You can also click the “+” button at the top. Then enter the website URL, username, and password in the provided fields, then click “Save.”

To edit a stored password, select the entry from the list and click the “Edit” button. You can change the username, password, or associated notes. If you need to update your password directly on the website, click the “Change Password” button, which takes you to the site’s password update page.

The Passwords app lets you securely share passwords with trusted contacts. To share passwords, create a Shared Group:

In the Passwords app, click the “+” button next to “Shared Groups.” Give your group a descriptive name and select contacts you’d like to include.

After creating the group, select passwords you’d like to share. Group members can access shared credentials directly from their Passwords app, and you can manage or revoke access at any time.

Alternatively, share individual passwords quickly via AirDrop by selecting the password entry and clicking the share icon.

Managing Security Alerts and Verification Codes

The Passwords app actively monitors your stored passwords for potential security risks, such as passwords compromised in data breaches or reused across multiple accounts. To view these alerts, select the “Security” tab within the app. For compromised passwords, the app will prompt you to change them immediately.

Additionally, the Passwords app supports automatic verification codes for two-factor authentication. To set this up, select a password entry, click on “Set Up Verification Code,” and follow the provided steps. This eliminates the need for separate authentication apps or SMS codes, simplifying secure logins.

Accessing Wi-Fi Passwords

Managing Wi-Fi passwords is simplified in the Passwords app. Under the Wi-Fi section, you can view, copy, or share stored Wi-Fi credentials with friends and family directly from your Mac, without needing to reveal the actual password.

Syncing Across Devices with iCloud Keychain

Passwords stored in the Passwords app automatically sync across your Apple devices via iCloud Keychain.

To ensure synchronization is enabled, click the Apple logo at the top right and then click on “System Settings.”

Click your Apple ID on the left and then on “iCloud” on the right.

Then, click “Passwords” on the iCloud page.

Now, you can toggle on the “Sync this Mac” option. This ensures seamless access to your passwords on your iPhone, iPad, and other Macs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If passwords aren’t syncing between devices, first confirm you’re signed into the same iCloud account on all devices and that the Passwords and Keychain option is active. Restarting your devices can also resolve temporary syncing issues.

If the Passwords app crashes or behaves unexpectedly, consider reinstalling it from the Mac App Store or checking for macOS updates, as Apple frequently releases patches addressing known issues.

The Passwords app in macOS Sequoia centralizes and simplifies password management, making it easier than ever to secure your digital life. Regularly reviewing security alerts and updating weak passwords ensures your accounts remain protected, giving you peace of mind without the complexity of third-party password managers.