How passwordless login works

This article explains how passwordless login works on .id (Informed Decisions) tools. Instead of a traditional password, .id uses short codes and links sent to your email, or sign-in via your Microsoft account, to verify who you are. There's no password to create, remember or reset.

Key concepts

One-time codes

When you sign up with your email, .id sends a short code to your inbox. Enter the code on the sign-up form to confirm the email belongs to you. The code can only be used once.

Magic links

When you log in with your email, .id sends an email containing a single-use link – sometimes called a 'magic link'. Click the link and you're signed in. The link expires after a short time, so it can't be used by anyone else.

Microsoft single sign-on

If your organisation uses Microsoft to manage staff identities, you can sign up and log in using your existing Microsoft account – the same one you use for Outlook. Once you sign up with Microsoft, we recongnise your account automatically.

How this applies in .id tools

You'll encounter passwordless login in two places:

When you sign up for an .id account, you can choose between email (one-time code) and Microsoft (sign in once).
When you log in to an existing account, you can choose between email (magic link) and Microsoft (sign in again).

In both cases, you don't create a password.

Frequently asked questions

Why doesn't .id use a password?

Passwords are easy to forget and need to be reset often. Passwordless login uses your email or Microsoft account – tools you already use – to confirm it's really you. It's simpler for you and helps reduce common password-related issues.

Is passwordless login secure?

Yes. Both methods rely on access to your verified email or Microsoft account – the same way you'd reset a forgotten password on most other services. Magic links and one-time codes expire quickly, so they can't be reused.

Why am I asked to log in again every now and then?

Your login session lasts 30 days. After that, .id asks you to log in again to keep your account secure.

Can I set a password instead?

No, .id only supports passwordless sign-up and login. This keeps the experience consistent for everyone.

What if I lose access to my email or Microsoft account?

Contact .id support at support@id.com.au and we'll help you regain access to your .id account.