Create strong, memorable passwords by using lengthy and complex passphrases. Passwords should be:
- Long – Ensure every password is a minimum of 14 characters long.
- Unique – Never reuse passwords across different accounts. That way if one account is compromised, the others remain secure.
- Complex – Create each unique password using a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters (e.g., >,!,?).
Juggling unique passphrases for every account or site can turn into a nightmare. That’s where a password manager comes in. It handles the storage and management of your passwords for all accounts and websites, freeing you from the burden of remembering them all. All you need to remember is the password for your password manager.
Many password managers act as browser extensions, offering many benefits that include:
- Effortless access to accounts across various devices and operating systems, simplifying logins as you switch between them.
- Easy password creation and updates.
- Convenient autofill for online forms with name, address, phone number, and even credit card information.
- Additional security features like notification of potential phishing websites.
Learn more
- PC Magazine’s The Best Password Managers article explains the benefits of a password manager and provides a comparison of some of the top applications.