These days a single computer user may have dozens of passwords. If you use computers at your job you may need to access secured databases, local workstations and numerous accounts online and each is supposed to have its own unique password. Though many people don't require a logon for their home PC, they will definitely have one for email or websites that they manage. Here is a guide to assist you in strengthening your passwords and password techniques. After reading this article you will know the following:
- How to make good passwords
- Good password practices
- Techniques to manage all of your passwords
How to Make Good Passwords Choose a password with the following criteria:
- At least 8 characters in length
- At least 1 number
- At least 1 special character
- Upper and lowercase.
Passwords with difficult combinations make it harder for tools like Brutus, John the Ripper, Cain and Able and other password crackers to decipher your password. When creating a password, don't use personal information such as birthdays, children names, or first and last names. Avoid using words or phrases that can be easily guess or cracked with a "dictionary attack." Do not use the same password on the different systems. If you work in a classified environment, passwords should be treated at the same level of classification as the systems they protect.