Password Managers
What is a Password Manager?
This video is 2 minutes long and even though it is advertising a product, it explains the concepts of a Password Manager very well.
1Password is a good service but there are alternative free options available, and you may already be using one without knowing it.
That said, free is not always best.
Which Password Manager should you use?
iCloud KeyChain
The built in password management system within macOS and iOS devices.
FREE
Pros
Seamlessly integrates and synchronises with all your macOS and iOS devices
Recommends strong passwords
It's free.
Cons
Does not work with non-Apple devices (eg. Windows laptops or Android phones)
Does not work with non-Apple apps (eg. Google Chrome)
Cannot store content that does not directly relate to a website or app
It is only as strong as your device's password.
1Password
For a comprehensive and polished experience, 1Password is our recommended choice. It has extensive features and a secure encryption service to ensure your data is unable to be access without your master password.
It is a paid service which costs AUD$48 per annum for one account, or AUD$86 per annum for a family which provides accounts for 5 people.
PAID
Pros
Compatible with macOS, iOS, Windows and Android
Sleek interface with useful management tools
Can be used to store any type of data, not just website logins
Has options to shared vaults with family or team members
Extremely high level of encryption
Supports 2 factor authentication
Cons
You need to pay an ongoing subscription.
Google Chrome
Chrome has built in password management that is highly accessible and easy to use.
FREE
Pros
It's free, open source and highly accessible.
Chrome Sync allows you to access your account from any computer, phone or tablet that you use.
You're probably already using it.
Cons
Only useful for accounts that use a web service, eg; you can't save information that doesn't directly relate to a website login.
It is only as strong as your current, everyday computer password.
KeePass
KeePass is a free open source password manager (what is open source?) that offers a high level of security at no cost. But to have flexible access to your passwords on any device it requires combined usage of a sync system like OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox.
FREE
Pros
Compatible with macOS, iOS, Windows and Android
Has a password generation tool built in
Can be used to store any type of data, not just website logins
It's free and open source
Extremely high level of encryption
Cons
It stores its information within a local database file. If that file is lost or deleted, all of the information in it is lost too.
The database file is not automatically accessible from every device, you must use a file sync service such as OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox to make the file accessible across multiple devices.