How to Create a Secure Password

Creating a secure password for your home or business is a critical component in keeping your accounts safe and to keep your identity from being stolen. However, making passwords secure is not something most people want to deal with because of the time and dedication it takes. Proper password creation and management actually requires discipline!

How to NOT Create a Secure Password

This is what not to do when attempting to create a secure password. Many of us don’t think about these as being the wrong option. How many of these are you doing on a daily basis?

Do NOT:

• Use dictionary words or combination of dictionary word (shoes, largeshoes, LargeShoes )
• Use any date formation ( 012015, 0523, etc. )
• Obvious Substitutions ( Password to P455w0rd)
• Letters followed by numbers – very common pattern that is easily cracked
• Have less than 12 Characters
• Reuse your passwords at more than one place

How to Create a Secure Password

Now you’ve heard all the things you shouldn’t be doing so let’s see what you should be doing to create secure passwords. Some of these might seem like a lot – remember we mentioned discipline? – but if you want to create a secure password for your information, this is the only way to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Do:

• Have at least 12 characters in your password
• Make your password a random set of numbers, letters, and symbols
• Use a Password Manager
• Use two factor Authentication
• Change your passwords every 90 days

Net Engineers owner, Paul, says:

“Treat your password like your toothbrush – choose a good one and replace it regularly!”

Following the above rules will make most people stressed out trying to remember many long passwords. This is why using a password manager is crucial. Then you have to only remember one password and maintain your passwords through software. There are many options when it comes to password storage and in our next piece we’ll tell you our recommendations.

Net Engineers offers IT solutions and repair services for our home and business customers including networking, back-up solutions, and tablet and mobile screen repair. You can find us in the Community Plaza in Sullivan, Missouri or by calling 573-860-6388.