How to Use Them for Maximum Security
As the internet becomes more and more integrated into our daily lives, the need for strong passwords to protect our online accounts is greater than ever before. But with so many accounts to manage, it can be difficult to remember all of your passwords, especially as you get older. That’s where password managers come in – they can help you create and remember strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts, without the need to remember them all yourself.
In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of using password managers, how they work, and how to use them to maximize your security.
What is a Password Manager?
A password manager is an application that stores and manages all of your passwords in one secure location. Rather than trying to remember each password for every online account, you simply need to remember one master password to access your password manager.
When you create an account or change a password, the password manager will generate a strong, unique password for you, which is then stored in an encrypted database. When you need to access that account again, the password manager will automatically fill in the login details for you, saving you time and hassle.
The Benefits of Using a Password Manager
Using a password manager has several benefits, including:
Stronger Passwords
When you use a password manager, you no longer have to rely on your memory to create strong passwords. Password managers can generate long, complex passwords that are virtually impossible to guess or crack.
Unique Passwords
Using the same password for multiple accounts is a major security risk. If one account is hacked, all of your other accounts could be compromised. Password managers make it easy to use unique passwords for each account, reducing the risk of a major security breach.
Easy Access
With a password manager, you only need to remember one master password to access all of your accounts. This makes it easier to log in to your accounts quickly and securely. (Click here to learn how to create a strong Master Password that is safe and that you can remember: Secret To Passwords)
Automatic Filling
Password managers can automatically fill in login details for you, which saves you time and reduces the risk of typos or other errors. Password maangers do this with browser plugins and smartphone apps so you can save a password on your phone to the password manager and use it when you are on your computer.
Improved Security
Password managers use advanced encryption techniques to keep your login details safe and secure. This means that even if someone gains access to your password manager, they won’t be able to see your passwords. CloudNexus recommends using Multi-Factor authentication with all of your passwords. I know this is an extra step, but it is necessary to verify that you are who you say you are as the Multi-Factor (Also known as 2FA, MFA and One Time Password (OTP)).
How to Use a Password Manager
Now that you understand the benefits of using a password manager, let’s take a look at how to use one.
Step 1: Choose a Password Manager
There are many password managers available, each with their own features and pricing plans. Some popular options include LastPass, 1Password, and Dashlane. Do some research to find a password manager that meets your needs. Check the features to make sure that it works on poth regular computers as well as smart phones.
Step 2: Install the Password Manager
Once you’ve chosen a password manager, you’ll need to install it on your computer or mobile device. Follow the instructions provided by the password manager to complete the installation. Usually, this is a browser plug-in for computers. Chrome, Firefox and Microsoft Edge are widely supported browsers by password managers.
Step 3: Create a Master Password
When you first open your password manager, you’ll be prompted to create a master password. This is the password you’ll use to access all of your login details, so make sure it’s strong and secure. It’s a good idea to use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Click here for tips on creating good Master Passwords.
Step 4: Import Your Existing Passwords
If you already have passwords saved in your web browser or on your computer, you can usually import them into your password manager. This saves you the hassle of having to enter all of your login details manually. Using “remember password” features built into browsers are not very secure and should be avoided.
Step 5: Update Your Passwords
Once you’ve imported your existing passwords, it’s a good idea to update them to stronger, unique passwords generated by your password manager. Most Password Managers have a Password Generator that can generate very strong passwords. We recommend a minimum of 16 characters using upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols.
Step 6: Use the Password Manager
Now that you’ve set up your password manager, you can start using it. It will take a little getting used too and once it is setup, it is just a click or two to login to your favorite website or application.
