The power of password managers

Creating, managing, and remembering your different passwords can be a daunting task. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a single solution to take care of all your password problems? There is. It’s called a password manager.

What is a password manager?

Password managers are a software solution that stores your passwords in a protected database, sometimes called a vault. The password manager encrypts the vault's contents and protects it with a primary password that only you know.

How does it work?

When you need one of your passwords, you simply type your primary password into your password manager to unlock the vault. The password manager often integrates into your web browser and automatically retrieves the correct password and securely logs you into the website. This allows you to easily maintain a unique password for each of your accounts, which is critical to keeping your digital life secure.

Most password managers detect when you're attempting to create a new online account and can create and store a new, unique password for you.

What passwords do I need to remember?

The only password you have to remember is the primary password you use to access your password manager. Make it strong by using a passphrase – a long password made up of multiple words or phrases. If your password manager supports multi-factor authentication, use that as well.

You may want to write down your primary password and store it in a sealed envelope in case you forget.

Which password manager is best for me?

There are many password managers to choose from, when trying to find the one that's best for you, think about -

• It should be simple to use. If you find the solution too complex to understand, find one that better fits your needs.

• A good password manager should be compatible with and synchronise across all your devices.

• Use only well-known and trusted password managers. Be wary of products that have not been around for a long time or have little or no community feedback.

• Make sure the vendor actively updates the password manager and be sure you are always using the most recent version.

• It should give you the option to securely store other sensitive data, such as the answers to your secret security questions and credit card information.

• Be suspicious of password managers that let you recover your primary password or allow their tech support to change it for you.

Password managers not for you?

Some people may find password managers too complicated to use. Another option, for personal (not work) passwords, is to write your passwords down in a notebook. If you or a loved one does use a notebook, store it in a safe place that only you or trusted family members have access to.

Is a password manager safe?

Strong encryption protects your data in a secure, encrypted vault, making a password manager much safer than storing passwords in a browser or using the same password for all online accounts.

Download this free infographic!