author

Aiden Haines - 09/26/2022

Using a Password Manager & The Importance of Strong Passwords

Introduction

In 2022 you must keep yourself safe online. Do you find yourself using the same passwords over and over again? Maybe because they are just too much to remember? Do you ever find yourself using "password" for one service and then "p@ssw0rd" for another? Small changes in the same password can get confusing and annoying when you forget which password you're trying to remember.

Every day there are more and more data breaches that you probably didn't even know happened. That's why today we're going to get you up to date on some ways to keep you and your accounts safe.

What is a password manager?

A password manager is a program that will allow you to add, create, and manage passwords for all the accounts you have. The password manager we are going to be using today is known as Bitwarden. Bitwarden is a free service and I recommend you follow along with me!

Why should I use one?

You should use a password manager because no service is 100% safe, there are always data breaches and leaks where your info might be in there. Say you use the same password for Target.com as you do your Online Bank. Imagine that Target got hacked and your password is now on the internet to use. Using Bitwarden will allow you to use a different password for every service you use. Quarantining the problem to just that service.

Bitwarden Logo

Bitwarden Logo

How to get started

The first step is to go make an account over at Bitwarden's site. BUT WAIT!!!

Take some time to think about this step. The "master password" will be the only password you will have to remember so make it one you have never used before. I recommend using a passphrase, a random combination of words that the world has never seen before. If you don't think you will remember it, write it down on a sheet of paper that you can use while you start to memorize your new password.

Create a Bitwarden account

It's recommended you download their browser extension. To make it easier to use and manage your saved passwords.

What's next?

Below is a video I found that will help you with getting started saving your first passwords and getting used to the app.

The conclusion

Password managers are a great tool to keep you safe across all of your logins. There is also a mobile app too that you can link and sync with your browser!

If you need any help make sure to Google It first, but then feel free to reach out to me at ahaines@palmyra.k12.nj.us