Choosing a Password
- No matter what method you end up using to manage your passwords, the first concept you should be familiar with is how to choose a good one.
- Use combinations of letters, numbers, and (when applicable) special characters.
- Mix upper case and lower case when passwords are case-sensitive.
- Keep them to about 8 characters on average.
- Don't use regular words or phrases. The more straightforward the password, the easier it will be to hack.
- Don't use numbers associated with your identity (such as birthdays, phone numbers, social security).
Re-using the Same Password
Writing Your Passwords Down
Some people resort to a sort of "password address book" where they write down usernames and passwords in a notebook as a reference. Unfortunately, this is a similarly insecure habit because of the possibility of someone getting their hands on it, particularly if you are keeping it around the office. If you decide to write them down, keep your password book in a locked drawer or someplace safe!
Develop a Password System
- The best way to try to memorize each password is by developing a system that allows you to generate a different memorable password for each site or application. Lifehacker has a great post on choosing and remembering great passwords. By using a combination of a base password, numbers, special characters, and elements from the names of the sites themselves, you can create passwords that are different for every account that you can remember without any outside help.
