Best Practices for Password Managers

Question

What advice/best practices are there surrounding password managers? 

Environment

• GRCC devices
• Personal devices

Information

In today's digital world, protecting your accounts with strong and unique passwords is critical to ensuring the security of your personal and college data. To support the evolving need for more complex passwords, in addition to implementing passphrases, we want to share information regarding password managers.

Answer

Password managers are applications designed to securely store and manage your passwords. While GRCC doesn’t promote any one specific password manager there are important things to consider if you choose to use one. 

Choosing a Password Manager

• Look for features such as secure encryption, password generation, and multi-factor authentication support.

• Ensure it can store passwords for multiple accounts and generate complex passwords for heightened security.
   

Using a Password Manager

• Secure your password manager with a unique and strong master password that isn’t used for any other application or system.

• Utilize multi-factor authentication if available.

• Follow guidance on creating strong passphrases for your master password.

• Utilize the password manager to create unique and complex passwords for each account.
   

Important Notes

• Avoid writing passwords down and refrain from using autofill features.

• Remember your master password, as forgetting it can result in losing access to all your stored passwords.
   

Many Options Available

• GRCC IT doesn't endorse or support any specific password managers

• Research and choose a reputable option based on user feedback and features that suit your needs.

Protecting your accounts is a shared responsibility. By incorporating password managers into your routine, you can enhance security while simplifying password management.