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For an account that still uses a password, make it long and unique: aim for at least 15 characters if you have to create it yourself. A password manager can generate and store a different password for each account; use multifactor authentication (MFA) or a passkey where the service supports it. You do not need to invent a mix of uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols or change passwords on a schedule.
How do I create a strong password?
- Use a password manager when possible. Have it generate a random, unique password for each account, then save the credential there rather than reusing or manually modifying a familiar password. NIST recommends password managers as a way to create and maintain stronger, distinct credentials. NIST SP 800-63B-4
- If you must memorize it, make it a long passphrase. Use multiple words that are not a quotation, familiar saying, personal detail, or a phrase published as an example. NIST says passphrases can be an effective way to create a longer password. Do not reuse examples from guidance or articles: once published, they are public.
- Use the account’s accepted format without relying on predictable tricks. Follow a service’s actual requirements, but adding a predictable number-and-symbol suffix to a short or reused password does not make it a good choice.
- Turn on another sign-in factor where available. Choose MFA or a passkey if the account offers one. Password length helps with guessing and reuse risks; it cannot prevent every kind of account attack.
How long should my password be?
NIST’s consumer guidance recommends at least 15 characters when you have to create a password yourself. That is the practical target for readers—not a promise that any password of a particular length is invulnerable. NIST: How Do I Create a Good Password?
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The number is different in the standard’s requirements for services. NIST SP 800-63B-4 sets a minimum of 15 characters for passwords used as a single authentication factor, while allowing a minimum of eight when the password is used only as part of MFA. The standard also says services should permit passwords at least 64 characters long. These are requirements and recommendations for verifiers and credential service providers; they do not turn eight characters into the general consumer target, nor do they guarantee every site implements the standard identically. NIST SP 800-63B-4
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No. NIST SP 800-63B-4 says verifiers must not impose composition rules such as requiring a mixture of character types. People often answer such rules with predictable edits to familiar words, rather than choosing a genuinely distinct credential. Prefer length and uniqueness over a password that merely appears complicated. NIST SP 800-63B-4
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A service may still have its own input requirements. If it does, meet them, but do not mistake a required symbol or digit for a substitute for a long, unique password.
How can I remember a different password for every account?
You generally do not need to memorize every account password. A password manager can generate and store them, so a unique credential does not depend on remembering a new string for each site. Protect the manager account itself with a strong master passphrase and MFA where available. If you must memorize an individual password, use a long passphrase that is not tied to public or personal information.
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- Requires 3 "AAA" batteries (included)
- Unit auto-locks for 30 minutes after 5 consecutive incorrect PINs
Should I change my password regularly?
No routine rotation is needed simply because time has passed. NIST SP 800-63B-4 says verifiers must not require periodic password changes, but a password should be changed when there is evidence it has been compromised. If a service reports suspicious activity or you learn the password was exposed, replace it with a new, unique one and review the account’s other security settings. NIST SP 800-63B-4
What does MFA protect against?
MFA adds another factor beyond the password. NIST lists options including passkeys, authenticator apps, push notifications, text-message codes, and USB security keys. Availability and setup depend on the account and device; check what the service supports. A security key is optional and does not create or store a strong password.
A long password is only one layer. It does not by itself stop phishing, keystroke logging, or social engineering. MFA or a passkey reduces reliance on the password alone, but no single measure prevents every attack. Be cautious about unexpected sign-in links and requests for credentials. NIST SP 800-63B-4
Quick Recap
Rank #4
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- SECURE AND CONVENIENT: Passwordless MFA login with the YubiKey Bio authenticator and biometric information using a fingerprint, with a PIN as a fallback. Simply plug in via USB and use your fingerprint to authenticate
- DEVICE & OS COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux. Works seamlessly with supported services like Google and Microsoft accounts, and major password managers. See the full compatibility list at "Works With YubiKey"
- DURABLE & RELIABLE: Resistant to tampering, water, and crushing. No batteries or network connectivity required, offering dependable authentication without any downtime. Securely manufactured in USA & Sweden
- Yubico Authenticator App - Fingerprint enrollment, passkey management and PIN configuration available via the app app - Upgrade to YubiKey 5 Series to generate one-time-passwords (OTP) via Yubico Authenticator and for advanced compatibility (OATH, PIV)
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