If you’re anything like me, your home computer is riddled with post it notes. Everywhere. Reminders of due dates, reminders of errands to run, or emails I need to send. But above all, the one thing that covers my computer is passwords. For all the hundreds of passwords we have in our day to day lives, keeping them straight is a pain.
Don’t believe me? The last time I tried to sign into my email, it took me three tries. I knew I had the “base” of the password down, but it still took variations of that, and misspellings, and trying to remember my childhood friend. Entering a password right on the first go is impossible.
Case closed.
Thankfully, there is a handy invention called “password managers” that take the headache out of keeping your passwords straight. It’s a simple, straightforward machine, and one that has proved to be invaluable in all your day to day internet going ons.
What is a password manager?
A password manager is the solution to your scattered post its of passwords. The basic premise of a secure password manager is effectively a lock box that holds these passwords. Not only that, but password managers also have the ability to strengthen your security by creating long, complex passwords for you. While using a variation on your dogs name for your passwords is convenient, or worse, using the same password for many accounts, it is a dangerous practice. If a hacker were to get a hold of one of these passwords, it’s possible they could get into a variety of your accounts, accessing more and more personal information.
With a secure password manager, you can link your accounts to the manager, and the it can create complex, individual passwords to these accounts for you. These passwords are then all protected under one master password that you have.
Wait…one password for all my passwords?
A completely reasonable reaction to this would be, “Well that doesn’t sound right. If someone gets a hold of my master password, I’m done for!”
This is a valid concern. However, there are safeguards against this. Almost all password managers employ multi factor authentication, meaning not only does the manager require your password, but a second code as well. This code frequently is sent to a device, like your phone, that only you can access. You then enter this code in along with your password to access your manager. This way, in the unlikely scenario a hacker does get your master password, your accounts are still safe.
I’m sold. What are the best ones?
I’m glad you asked! (You didn’t ask, I wrote it, it’s fine.) Below are a round up of three of our favorite password managers.
1Password
First up on this list is 1Password. Besides looking effortlessly sleek, it is incredibly easy to use and friendly to newcomers. Also, 1Password comes with a password builder, where you can customize portions of your password, instead of automatically using the generated password. 1Password runs on a $4.99 family plan subscription per month, and functions on almost all browsers aside from Internet Explorer. While not as automated as other options, it’s a tough product to beat at a reasonable price.
Dashlane
Next on our list is going to be Dashlane. One great aspect of this software is that it is completely free to use. While it will run you $40 a year to sync across your devices, the base software is free. A huge perk of Dashlane as well is their hacking notification system. If you have an account on a compromised sight, you can tell Dashlane to reset your password on that specific site, or across all sites. You also have the option of saving your password vault locally, and you are supplied with a master key. Two factor authentication has also been recently added, and an ability to share your passwords with emergency contacts.
LastPass
Last (pun intended) and certainly not least, we have LastPass. Of the three great options provided, LastPass is the powerhouse. LastPass features a plethora of useful functionalities: two factor authentication, automatic password reset of compromised websites, password auditing, and autofill forms. This is just with the free version. With the premium version, you receive priority customer support, thumb drive authentication, and 1GB of encrypted file storage. This storage is ideal for any sensitive documents, like work forms or items containing your social security number. With the free software alone, this secure password manager blows the competition away.
There you have it: a rundown on password managers, and three great options, packing a bang for your buck. Stop back here for any of your other IT or software solutions, and keep those passwords safe!
