On a typical day, an average internet user might visit multiple websites and apps. These platforms often stress the need to use different passwords and may even insist on mixing letters, numbers, and symbols. The challenge, however, is that having a distinct password for every account could lead us to frequently use the ‘Forgot Password’ feature. That’s why password managers are valuable; they help keep your accounts secure without overloading your memory.
What is a password manager?
A password manager is essentially an app or browser extension that keeps track of your usernames and passwords. Many managers offer an auto-fill option, so you don’t need to manually enter your login details. They often perform a security check to look for duplicate or weak passwords.
What really makes these managers standout is their capability to create random and complex passwords for each account. They usually generate passwords that are 20 characters long, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols, aligning with PCMag’s password guidelines. If you use Apple products, you might know ‘Keychain,’ a password manager specifically for devices linked with your AppleID.
What are the benefits of a password manager?
Besides the already mentioned security advantages of using unique and complex passwords for your accounts, there are some additional benefits. Most password managers let you sync your login details across multiple devices. This allows you to easily access your bank’s login info entered on your Windows PC from your iPhone.
An added advantage of using a password manager is that many can warn you if you try to enter your information on a fake website. This could happen if you accidentally type a wrong URL and end up on a site that looks similar, click the wrong search result, or visit a genuine site that has been hacked. Some password managers also offer breach detection alerts. So, if your login details show up in a data breach, your password manager will notify you and recommend changing your password.
How does a password manager help my business?
We have thoroughly covered the benefits of a password manager for individual users and families, but an enterprise password manager can provide many of the same benefits to your business, as well as a few expanded features. Applications like Keeper provide administrative oversight for your organization in many ways.
Keeper provides an administrative console that allows your company to enforce security policies, maintain user logs, create teams with shared passwords, and establish/disable/remove users with a few simple clicks. Keeper also allows for the management of internal controls and industry regulations by providing visibility of employee password strength, credential sharing, and exposure to vulnerable locations such as the dark web.
Many enterprise password managers can also function as much more than just a password storage tool, with some allowing for secure file storage, zero-trust/zero-knowledge connections, as well as encrypted workplace messaging.
