There are two different approaches users can take with these new online authentication experiences. First, a swipe of your finger over an encrypted fingerprint reader on your Lenovo laptop will securely log you into a site that is compatible with the tech. Second, automatic two-factor authentication allows you to enter your normal username and password into a participating website, such a Google, Facebook and Dropbox. Instead of automatically logging you in, though, the service verifies your identity and asks you to click a button to log in.

The FIDO Alliance, which is backed by companies such as Samsung, Google and Microsoft, supports banishing passwords altogether. It's been slow going (for example, Apple's Touch ID isn't currently compatible with FIDO), but this first implementation of FIDO standards into PCs brings us one step closer to making all of our online activity more secure -- and that's a win.