One familiar refrain I've heard as we've been introduced to various websites in our technology class is "So many passwords! How will I keep them all straight??" You can write them all down.... and hope you have the list with you when you need it; or you can employ a password manager. Password managers are something of which I had heard, but I about which I was not very knowledgeable, so off to Google I went!
Wikipedia defines a password manager as software that helps a user organize passwords and pin codes. (Wikipedia.org) There are many types of password managers. Some offer the option to store information other than passwords, such as pin codes or financial account information. Standalone programs can be installed on your computer. This is great if you never need them anywhere but home, but you wouldn't have access to the passwords when you were on the go. Online password managers allow access anywhere, but I had to wonder how safe they are. Who else might have access to those passwords, or how reliable is the site's backup system? How easily might the site be hacked? Does it use "Host-proof Hosting" design, or are the passwords sent over the network where they can be copied unnoticeably during transit? There have been many reports in the news of sites for banks and credit cards being compromised and personal account information being accessed. Another solution offers the ability to download an application to a Blackberry, I Phone, PDA or USB drive. How do you know which option is best for you?
I came across an article in my quest on the Purdue University site, which offers reviews of several different programs listing the main features and rating of each. Ironically, their best pick is a free program!
Purdue University's Password Manager Review
Another site lists the five best password managers based on user votes. After users had submitted their votes for their favorite programs and sites, the people at this site reviewed and ranked them. Lifehacker - The Five Best Password Managers
You can find another list of reviews of various programs at CNet and PCMag, both very reputable sites that evaluate software and technological devices. They also offer the option to download at CNet. CNet.com PCMag.com
These additional sites offer other lists of programs that are available, although I advise you to use caution when dealing with "freeware".
Filehungry.com
Scanwith.com
Sofotex.com
A good password manager must have strong defenses against attack, yet be user friendly as well. In the end, though, it's simply a matter of personal preference.
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Great resource, Lynn. Which one did you decide to use?
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