Password managers are handy tools that help you securely store and manage all your passwords in one place. Instead of trying to remember multiple passwords or using the same one for all your accounts neither of which is recommended, a password manager stores them in an encrypted vault. Having an inventory of all passwords and accounts is foundational. Password manager’s benefits extend beyond basic password storage and include several powerful features.
I’ve listed some of those here. I’m using the tool Keeper Security or Synology in most of my examples. Is “Keeper” the best password manager out there? Probably not and that’s not what I’m writing about. Keeper is what I started using years ago. Its not broken for me so I haven’t seen the need to switch. Also check out 1Password and Bitwarden.
1. Password-less Authentication
Password managers can play a vital role in facilitating password-less authentication by securely storing and managing the various methods used for authentication. Password-less authentication eliminates the need for traditional passwords and relies on alternative methods to verify a user’s identity. These methods include
- biometrics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition
- cryptographic keys, like hardware tokens or mobile apps
- single sign-on (SSO) solutions
2. Secure Password Sharing
Password managers enable secure password sharing with trusted individuals, such as family members or colleagues, without revealing the actual password. This feature is particularly useful when collaborating on shared accounts or granting temporary access. Some password managers allow one-time sharing of passwords too.
3. Account Sharing in Emergency
Some password managers have a feature that allow you to add another user as a trusted person (ex. Keeper). In an emergency or as part of a Trust agreement, this person can request access to your account. If you don’t reject the answer within a set period of time (ex. one week) that user will get access to the passwords in your account.
4. Password Auditing and Monitoring
Regular password auditing and monitoring is important in maintaining a robust security posture and protect against potential breaches.
Advanced password managers can analyze your existing passwords and provide a security assessment, highlighting weak or reused passwords that need to be changed. This feature helps you maintain a strong and robust password hygiene
Most password managers have features to analyze the strength and security of stored passwords, detect weak or compromised passwords, and provide recommendations for improving security.
5. Secure Notes and Information Storage
In addition to passwords, password managers often allow you to store other sensitive information like credit card details, secure notes, and personal identification documents. This can serve as a secure digital vault for important data.
6. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Many password managers offer built-in support for 2FA, an extra layer of security that requires a second form of verification (such as a unique code or fingerprint) in addition to the password.
2FA obviously adds an additional safeguard against unauthorized access and should always be enabled Having the 2FA authentication functionality in the password manager is convenient. There is also something to be said about using different tools for 2FA and password management for additional layers of security.
7. Cross-Platform and Device Synchronization
Password managers can synchronize your passwords across multiple devices and platforms, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. This ensures that your passwords are readily available and up to date, regardless of the device you’re using. They use methods such as browser extensions, mobile apps, and cloud syncing.
If you choose a self-hosted tool such as Enpass, you’ll have to configure the synching manually following their instructions. Ensure that the synchronization configuration is secure and encrypted, and consider disabling synchronization on devices that you don’t frequently use or trust.
8. Auto-fill and Auto-login
Password managers can automatically fill in login credentials for websites and apps, saving you the time and effort of typing them manually. They can also log you in automatically, streamlining the login process.
9. Password Generation
Password managers can generate strong, complex passwords for your accounts. These passwords are typically a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters, making them highly secure and difficult to guess.
10. Secure Chat
The secure chat feature allows you to chat with friends, family member and colleagues with peace of mind about the content you share and who you share it with.
