Remembering passwords is difficult. Breaking passwords (with the right tech tools) is easier than we’d like to think. And reusing passwords is incredibly risky.
Enter the password manager.
Password managers generally work like this: you input all your username and password combinations to the password manager (usually over time as you naturally use them), and the service stores them in a secure, encrypted vault. The companies offering the service don’t have access to your actual passwords thanks to the magic of encryption: only you do.
Your password manager can help you convert all your old, simple, or reused passwords to unique, randomly generated ones, which increases the security for each of these accounts. These new, difficult passwords are then stored in the vault.
Then, to secure that vault, you create a single, complex master password to secure your vault. That’s the only one you have to memorize now. You may also set up additional methods or protocols, such as two-factor authentication, to keep that vault extra secure.
Next, when you need to log into a website or app, your password manager steps in. You confirm that you’re you to the password manager, and it supplies the right credentials and logs you in.
The benefits here are numerous:
- You don’t have to remember 137 unique passwords
- You have no incentive to reuse passwords
- Every account gets a unique, complex password
- The process of logging in gets simpler (no guesswork or password resets)
- Your business and personal accounts become exponentially more secure
So, what are the next steps?
The truth is, implementing a password manager for your own personal use is very straightforward. Implementing one across your entire business is a little more involved and may require IT support.
If the prospects of making this move seem like more than you can take on, we’re happy to help. We can advise you on the right solution for your needs and assist you with the setup and implementation of that solution.
