Online Safety and Privacy
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Min Read
What Is a Password Manager? Time to Log in Safer
Stop reusing passwords. Start protecting your accounts the easy way.
Most of us have reused the same password across multiple accounts at some point. It’s convenient but also very risky. If just one of those accounts is exposed in a data breach, that password can become a “skeleton key” to your email, bank account, social media, and more.
A password manager is the best way to stop reusing passwords and keep your collection safe. They are also very easy to use once you get started!
What is a password manager?
A password manager is a secure tool that stores and manages your passwords for you. It can be an app, a browser extension, or a built-in feature on your device or web browser. We recommend using a trusted standalone password manager.
With a password manager, you can:
Generate strong, unique passwords for every account
Store them securely in an encrypted vault
Autofill login details when you visit websites or apps
Instead of remembering hundreds of passwords, you only need to remember one master password when you're using a password manager.
Why you should use a password manager
Using a password manager is one of the most effective ways to improve your online security. Reusing passwords is a big problem; remembering dozens of strong passwords is basically impossible, and a password manager uses the latest tech to keep your passwords safe.
Stronger passwords without the hassle
Password managers create long, complex passwords that are difficult to guess or crack...and you don’t have to memorize them. Remember, a strong password is unique, at least 16 characters long, and a random string of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Stop recycling passwords
Every account gets its own unique password when you use a password manager. That means if one account is compromised, the others stay safe. Know that adding a letter or symbol to an existing password still counts as a reused password – a password manager generates a brand new, super-strong password for each account.
Save time once you start
Today's password managers can be set up to automatically fill in your login information, so you don’t have to reset forgotten passwords or dig through notes.
Work across devices
Most password managers sync across your phone, laptop, and tablet, so your passwords are always available when you need them.
Extra security features
Many password managers also:
Alert you to data breaches or compromised passwords
Warn you about suspicious or phishing websites
Help you safely store other sensitive information
Did we mention that there are a lot of high-quality options available for free?
How password managers keep your data safe
It might feel risky to store all your passwords in one place. Are you storing all your eggs in one basket? No, because a basket isn't designed to be as safe as a digital bank vault.
Modern password managers are designed with extremely strong security protections.
Encryption
Password managers use encryption to scramble your data so it’s unreadable to anyone without access. Even if someone intercepted your stored passwords, they wouldn’t be able to use them.
Zero-knowledge design
We recommend seeking out a password manager that uses zero-knowledge architecture. This is a fancy cyber term which means:
The company cannot see your passwords
Your master password is never stored on their servers
Only you can unlock your vault
Multifactor authentication (MFA)
You should enable multifactor authentication for your password manager to add an extra layer of security beyond a strong master password. This requires a second step, such as a texted code, fingerprint, facial scan, or an authentication app, before granting access. Many password managers today require MFA, but you should turn it on if it's not already enabled. In fact, turn MFA on all your accounts and devices!
Is it safe to store all your passwords in one place?
This is a common concern...and, unfortunately, it's a big reason many people pass on password managers.
But here’s the reality. Using a password manager is far safer than:
Reusing the same password across accounts
Writing passwords in a notebook or on sticky notes
Saving passwords in unprotected spreadsheets or notes apps
A password manager reduces your overall risk by helping you create stronger passwords and avoid reuse, two of the biggest causes of account compromise.
Start slow and make it a habit
You can start using a password manager in just a few minutes:
Choose a reputable password manager
Create a strong master password
Turn on multifactor authentication
Start saving passwords as you log in, or import them all at once
Many password managers will prompt you to save passwords as you browse. Over time, your secure vault will grow automatically.
Install the password manager’s browser extension and mobile app to easily access your passwords anywhere. Generally, browser extensions are needed for auto-fill features, and apps are a way to save all your passwords across multiple devices.
Password managers bring peace of mind
A password manager acts like a secure vault and personal assistant for your online accounts. It helps you stay organized, save time, and protect your identity. For more tips, sign up for our free newsletter!
Password manager examples
There are many different free or paid password managers available for personal or business use. Some examples include:
We recommend that you compare the different password managers and find the one that works best for you with these trustworthy guides:
FAQs
Are password managers safe to use?
Yes. Reputable password managers use strong encryption and security features that make them much safer than reusing passwords or storing them insecurely.
What happens if I forget my master password?
Most password managers cannot recover your master password due to zero-knowledge design. Some offer recovery options, but this is why you should either memorize your master password or store it in a secure place, like a safe.
Are built-in browser password managers good enough?
They can be convenient, but dedicated password managers often offer stronger security features and better cross-device compatibility.
Do I need to pay for a password manager?
No. Many high-quality options offer free versions with basic features, but top-notch security.
