How to use a password generator and where to find one

Passwords are a necessary evil of our modern digital lives. They protect our accounts from unauthorized access, but at the same time they drive us crazy by forcing us to remember complicated combinations of letters, numbers and special symbols.

The human brain is not very good at this job, especially when websites and services require different criteria to determine what constitutes a viable password. So rather than trying to create anagrams from your favorite TV shows or just putting in your pet’s name and birthday, a better solution is to find software that can automatically generate words. strong and random passwords.

Here we will recommend some good password generators and show you how to use one.

What is a Password Generator?

As the name suggests, this tool will create random combinations of characters which you can then use as a password for your account. Password generators are easy to find and are usually free.

One thing to keep in mind: if you find one that asks you to log in or enter your email address, DON’T! There is no point in generating a long and complicated password if the site providing this service can then use it to log into the account itself. Of course, it won’t know which account you’re generating the password for, but that’s an unnecessary risk to take.

This advice does not apply to password managers that have built-in password generators: only website-based generators, as those shouldn’t require you to log in.

Can’t I create a strong password myself?

While you might think you can, there’s been research that suggests our own minds tend to associate patterns when we try to be random, making it possible that the passwords we create could be different. somehow be related to tricks that hackers may be able to discover. about us. After all, we are trying to create something that we will remember.

That’s why it’s a good idea to use a dedicated password generator. Of course, no password is 100% impervious to attack, but software-generated passwords should be more secure than any we could imagine ourselves, and the longer they are, the more secure they are.

Where can I find a password generator?

Many password generators are available online. A simple Google search for “password generator” will provide a selection, but you can also go to the websites of password manager apps such as LastPass, Dashlane, or 1Password where you’ll find a free password generator. ready to use.

For this example, we’ll use LastPass’s password generator.

How to use a password generator

Once you’ve found a generator, it’s time to create your password. Most of them work the same way, so the steps below should apply to whichever you’re using.

Of course, managing passwords yourself can get tedious if you have a lot of accounts. Then there’s the issue of where you keep the details that contain those passwords.

For the best, and arguably most secure, experience, we recommend using a password manager service like the ones mentioned above. These will store all your passwords in a secure vault, automatically generate new ones when you need them, monitor your accounts for any data leaks that could compromise your information, and work on any device. The only thing you need to remember is a master password, which is much easier on the brain. You can learn more in our guide to using a password manager.

Password managers are a great way to boost security without taxing your memory. Most cost a small amount per month, but there are free ones (like Bitwarden) and there are often offers available, as well as family plans so that one subscription can cover your entire household.

This may seem like another expense, but we’d say this one is well worth it. You can check out our current recommendations by reading our roundup of the best password managers.