Password managers are vital for maintaining the safety of your online credentials. These managers securely store all kinds of personal login information, from streaming services to banking logins. Writing login details on sticky notes is not secure, and losing this physical record could leave you unable to access your most important accounts.
Password managers come with various apps and plugins to keep your information secure. They eliminate the need to remember numerous complicated passwords and make it easier to log in from almost anywhere. However, not all password managers are created equal.
When used correctly, password managers act as secure virtual safe deposit boxes, keeping your information in a portion only accessible to you. Most password managers have features that make it convenient to log in to any site without the need to remember every password. They also keep your credit card information close for impulse purchases.
Secure passwords should be unique, with the longest number of characters possible and a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. This is the exact opposite of using one password everywhere. Password managers are more accessible and offer the benefit of filling in long passwords for you.
While it may seem counterintuitive to store sensitive information in one place, most experts agree that password managers are generally safe. They have multiple layers of security and encryption, making it difficult for attackers to gain access to your data.
Password managers are suitable for everyone as so much sensitive information is stored online behind passwords, from bank accounts to streaming accounts. They also allow for safe password sharing among family, friends, or roommates.
Built-in password managers on devices like phones and web browsers are limited to specific devices. Therefore, using a third-party password manager is usually worth it.
We tested nine of the best password managers available to help you choose the right one for your needs. 1Password is our top recommendation, with industry-standard encryption, a “secret key” only you know, a zero-knowledge policy, and other security features like frequent audits, two-factor authentication, and a bug bounty program. 1Password supports passkeys and has an intuitive user interface across its mobile and desktop apps.
