How Secure Is Microsoft’s Built-in Password Manager in Windows 11?

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For anyone considering managing passwords on Windows 11, the built-in Microsoft Password Manager found in Microsoft Edge is easy to access, but how does it stack up to popular third-party solutions? On Hands-On Windows, host Paul Thurrott reviewed its features, drawbacks, and who should (and shouldn’t) rely on it for digital security.

What Is Microsoft Password Manager and Where to Find It?

Microsoft Password Manager isn’t a stand-alone app in Windows 11. Instead, it’s built directly into the Microsoft Edge browser. Just like in Chrome, users can save passwords, autofill forms, and manage some payment and address details.

You configure it under Edge’s settings (passwords and autofill sections). For Windows 11 users, this integration means no extra software or subscriptions are required—just Edge and your Microsoft account.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Easy Setup: Enabled by default in Edge, with a quick way to start saving passwords.
• Payment and Address Autofill: Handles more than just passwords, supporting some shopping and form tasks.
• Basic Password Health: Highlights reused or weak passwords and gives a direct change link to update them.
• Free and No Extra Installation: No cost or separate app required.

Cons:

• Limited to Edge: Passwords sync across Edge on devices—but not Chrome, Safari, or other browsers.
• Lacks Password Generation: Doesn’t offer complex password suggestions when creating new logins—a big feature in most third-party tools.
• No Dark Web Monitoring: Won’t alert you if saved credentials are found in data breaches.
• No Advanced Features: Missing in-depth security reports, secure sharing, or advanced multi-factor support present in tools like Bitwarden or Proton Pass.

Key Differences vs. Third-Party Password Managers

Paul Thurrott found that while Microsoft Password Manager covers the basics, it’s outclassed by popular third-party options on several fronts:

• Platform Support: If you use browsers like Chrome or Safari—or alternate platforms like Mac or Linux—Edge’s manager doesn’t carry over. You’d need Edge everywhere.
• Password Generation: Third-party managers suggest and save strong, complex passwords for each new account. Microsoft’s doesn’t, requiring manual creation.
• Security Features: Leading alternatives include breach alerts, detailed audit tools, and often stronger options for encrypted data handling.

Edge’s manager does have a handy “change password” link for supported websites, streamlining updates—a positive note.

Who Should Use Microsoft Password Manager?

• Best for: People who use Edge as their main browser on all devices, only use Windows or Android/iOS Edge, and want simple autofill for logins and payment methods.
• Not for: Power users, people with cross-platform needs, or anyone wanting the highest level of security and convenience. If you regularly use Chrome, Safari, or require advanced password features, third-party options are better.

What MS Password Manager Gets Right, and Where It Falls Short

On Hands-On Windows, Paul Thurrott pointed out its simplicity and integration make it a “good-enough” starting point, but warned it “falls short” in features that improve both usability and security. The lack of password generation alone is a glaring omission—users are left to invent complex passwords themselves.

The ability to audit reused/weak passwords and immediately visit sites to change them helps, but there’s no automatic monitoring for data leaks, and syncing is locked to Edge.

Key Takeaways

• Practical for Edge-only users: If you live in Edge and want basic password management, Microsoft’s offering works and is free.
• Security tradeoffs: Features like auto-generated strong passwords, multi-platform support, and security monitoring are missing.
• Consider third-party managers: Free tools like Bitwarden and Proton Pass offer richer features and greater flexibility.

The Bottom Line

Microsoft Password Manager in Edge is a straightforward way to save and fill passwords if you stay entirely within the Microsoft ecosystem. However, most users benefit from switching to a more fully-featured, cross-platform third-party manager—especially if advanced security, reliability, and ease-of-use are priorities.

Try Microsoft Password Manager only if you’re a dedicated Edge user and want the simplest setup. Otherwise, install a free third-party solution.

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