As with any piece of technology, there are positive and negative aspects you need to consider.
A password manager can
- Negate the need to remember hundreds of unique passwords
- Create secure passwords on your behalf
- Be used across multiple devices
- Encrypt your accounts
However, you need to keep in mind that
- A password manager is not infallible. There is always the chance of cyber security breaches. The use of a password manager means there is only a single point of failure before all your passwords are known to a hacker
- You should choose a password manager that also utilises multi-factor authentication
- They can be somewhat tricky to set up
With these points in mind, you can then choose from some of the top password manager brands in use by businesses.
NordPass first launched in 2019. Over the last few years, they have become trusted for businesses and individuals alike in managing passwords securely.
Things that make it great:
- Use of multi-factor authentication
- Family plan covers up to 6 accounts
- Simple app
- High-end encryption
- Use of biometric authentication
- Scan for data breaches
Areas of improvement:
- Free version lacks multi-device capabilities
- Need to install extensions to be able to use autofill
- Searching and filtering can be tedious
DashLane was first available to the public in 2012. This subscription-based password manager can help you to keep your data secure.
Things that make it great:
- Options for both business and personal users
- Dark Web insights
- VPN capabilities
- Secure sharing
- Unlimited passwords for businesses
- Real-time alerts
- Free ‘Friends and Family’ plan for all Business plan holders
Areas of improvement:
- Subscription only, meaning no free option
- User interface can be complicated
- Not as many biometric authentication options as other providers
Keeper Security Inc released their password manager at the beginning of 2009. They also offer several other different cyber security options to keep your business safe.
Things that make it great:
- Generates and stores strong passwords
- Easy to use
- Password sharing features
- Single sign-on
- Auditing
- Greater organisation
- Limited entry attempts
Areas of improvement:
- Lack of automated password updates
- Difficulty with deleting users while retaining passwords
- Can be frustrating needing to sign in every time you open
LastPass is a well-known password manager, available for computers and smartphones alike. However, some more recent issues may cause wariness about the brand.
Things that make it great:
- Attractive interface
- Great password generator
- Multi-device access and synchronisation
- Can use for secure logins
- Password vault
Areas of improvement:
- Has been subject to several data breaches in the last few years
- Limited support
- Downtime can be frustrating
The Google Password Manager is a great tool associated with the Chrome browser. While this does limit its capabilities in some ways, it does allow you to store your information alongside your Google account, making it easy to access whenever you sign in.
Things that make it great:
- Completely free to use
- Easy to use
- Can also securely store payment information
- Informs of any password breaches
- Easy to use search function
Areas of improvement:
- No app – usage is via Google Chrome browser
- Limited security details
- Can fail to store/update passwords correctly alongside usernames
When used correctly, a password manager can help to keep your accounts secure and give you that extra peace of mind. Choosing a password manager brand will depend entirely on how you plan to use it. Those who don’t have many accounts or users may want to opt for a free or low-price plan. Larger businesses, or those after a greater level of security and alerts, may fare better with a subscription service.
Discussing your needs with IT specialists can allow you to start utilising password manager systems today. By focusing more on account and device security, you can prevent hackers from gaining access to your sensitive data.
Anne-Marie Blazdell is a Marketing & Communications Manager with expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and IT solutions. With a strong foundation in graphic design, she trained at Farnborough College of Technology and Southampton Solent University before advancing into marketing and business IT support.
Since joining Syn-Star in 2022, Anne-Marie has specialised in crafting SEO-optimised website content, managing social media, and helping businesses navigate the complexities of IT. Her work bridges the gap between technology and business, making IT more accessible and effective.