Strong Password Best Practices

Learn how to create and manage secure passwords. Use our interactive strength checker and generator below.

Password Strength Checker & Generator

Test the strength of your password or generate a new secure one instantly.

Privacy Note: All password checking and generation happens locally in your browser. No data is sent to our servers.

Essential Password Guidelines

Follow these rules to dramatically improve your online security.

  • Length Over Complexity: Aim for at least 12 characters. A longer password is often stronger than a short, complex one.
  • Uniqueness is Key: Never reuse passwords across different websites or services.
  • Avoid Personal Info: Do not use names, birthdays, pet names, or other easily discoverable information.
  • Consider Passphrases: String together 4-6 random words (e.g., "BlueCoffeeMountainWallet"). They are strong and easier to remember.
  • Use a Password Manager: This is the single best step you can take. It creates, stores, and auto-fills strong, unique passwords for you.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Always turn on 2FA where available. It adds a critical second layer of security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a password truly strong?

A strong password is long (12+ characters), uses a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols, and is not based on personal information or common dictionary words. Using a passphrase is often recommended.

How often should I change my passwords?

The current best practice is to change passwords only if you suspect they have been compromised. It's more important to use a unique, strong password for every account and enable two-factor authentication.

Are password managers safe to use?

Yes, reputable password managers are very safe and highly recommended. They encrypt your passwords with a master key, help you generate strong unique passwords, and protect you from phishing and credential stuffing attacks.

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