Passwords open all of your online accounts, so creating one that’s both strong and easy to remember is extremely important. A lot of times, it can be an issue; which is why one of the most common IT-related problems our help desk remediates is lost password credentials. Let’s take a look at what makes a secure password and how to effectively do it.
What is a Secure Password?
So, what makes a password secure? It should be long, with at least 12 characters, and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid reusing passwords across accounts, and steer clear of anything predictable, such as your name, birthday, or common patterns like “246810.” The key is to create something unique and unpredictable.
Use a Passphrase
One way to build strong passwords is by using a passphrase. For example, turn a simple sentence like “I love pasta” into a password such as !L0v3p@5t@!. It’s memorable yet hard for hackers to crack. You can make it even more secure by substituting letters with symbols or numbers—for instance, replacing “a” with “@” or “o” with “0” as we did in our example. However, avoid using personal details like your pet’s name or favorite sports team, as these can be easily guessed if someone were to check your social media or know you in real life.
Use Password Tools
Since remembering dozens of strong passwords is nearly impossible, a password manager can be a lifesaver. These apps store all your passwords securely in one place, so you only need to remember one master password. Many password managers also generate strong, random passwords for you, taking the guesswork out of the process. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds another layer of security. Even if someone figures out your password, they won’t be able to log in without a code sent to your phone or email.
Having secure passwords can limit the numerous headaches that can pop up. For more great tips and tricks, check our our blog regularly.
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