Password Manager

A password manager is software that helps users manage and store their passwords securely. With the increasing number of online accounts, it has become challenging to remember unique passwords for each account. Password managers solve this problem by generating and storing strong, unique passwords for each account. They also provide users with the convenience of automatically filling in login details for websites and apps, saving time and effort. Password managers ensure the safety of user data by encrypting passwords and providing multi-factor authentication options. Using a password manager can help users stay secure online and avoid the risk of data breaches caused by weak or reused passwords.

Commonly Used Password Managers

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• or [Not cloud based; advanced users]
• [TekEdge Consulting no longer recommends using LastPass]

Password Manager Universal Best Practices

1. Come up with a complex passphrase for your password manager.  Something that you can easily remember, such as “D0es Zimbabwe J0e, smell flytrap sn0w???!!!” [this is an example only – do NOT use!]. Ideally, whatever passphrase you come up with, you can also type in quickly and accurately.
2. Under NO circumstances should you use your password manager’s “master password” with any other service.  Full stop – this is critical!
3. Configure the password manager with two-factor authentication.
4. Utilize the password manager to create unique passwords for everywhere a password is required. Never use the same password twice.
5. Use the password manager to create obnoxiously complex passwords [25+ random characters, letters, numbers, special characters].  Something like “vDe;JW2~C3z=’\5[F,Ndo}t’o/Kk)y’s^JzlH}<q92@-Gy?>w{>’0MwNfT*6$.L” [this is an example only – do NOT use!]