What Makes a Good Password

Creating a strong password is one of the most effective ways to protect your data and keep your accounts secure. Weak or reused passwords are among the most common reasons for data breaches, making it essential for both individuals and businesses to follow proven password security standards.

Guidelines for Creating a Strong Password

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides clear recommendations for password security in the United States. According to their guidelines, a strong password should meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 12 characters long
  • Include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters
  • Contain numbers and special characters

Avoid using common words, phrases, or personal information

The more complex and unique your password is, the harder it becomes for hackers to guess or crack it. In general, longer passwords are much stronger and more secure.

Make Passwords Easier to Manage

While complex passwords are important, they can also be difficult to remember. That is why password managers such as LastPass or 1Password are highly recommended. These tools securely store and generate unique passwords for every account, helping you stay organized and protected.

Using a password manager simplifies the login process and ensures compliance with modern security practices. For businesses, this is especially important as part of a broader cybersecurity plan to prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive information.

Embedding a password security video here can help users better understand how strong passwords work and why they matter.

A good password is your first line of defense. Combine complexity with secure tools to stay protected online.