Password Management Tools
Today there are a growing number of password management tools that can manage the myriad of passwords that you have to keep up with. Many are free, some with premium versions available, and all are doing more and more the same things. Frequently you can even import passwords from one tool to another. Having been around for years, they are proving themselves to be secure and easy to use.
Some of the most popular password managers:
Typical features
Password Generation – Based on your settings, the password manager will randomly create and retain a strong password for new sites; options may include the number of characters, symbols, numbers, upper and lower case.
Password Vaulting – Your passwords are maintained securely and automatically available (& inputted) when you return to the site. Your access to the vault is protected by one single master password. Obviously, this master password must be one that you can remember and one that is difficult to crack.
Biometric Access – Some password managers will allow, or (optionally) require, fingerprint-based authentication.
Browser Agnostic – Most password managers can be used with almost any browsers. So you can switch from Internet Explorer to Google Chrome to Firefox. Some even support Opera and Safari.
Form Filling – Rather than constantly inputting your name, address, company name, email address, your password manager can insert this information for you. You can even set up your credit card information and checking accounts to eliminate the hassle of ordering online.
Portability – Some password managers will synch your information between multiple devices, all requiring the same master password. This is helpful when going from desktop to tablet PC to smartphone.
Password Strength Monitoring – Many of the password managers will automatically inform you when you have passwords that are too weak.
If you are not currently using a password manager, you probably resort to writing down each of your passwords or using the same password over and over. Obviously, either of these methods is what the hackers are looking for. Crack one password and they can take over your digital life. If you have any other questions about anything that is IT related, Biztek Connection would be happy to help out, just contact us.