Why You Should be Using a Password Manager

There are several computer programs or features that combine vital security needs with areas of convenience, and a great example here is the potential use of a password manager for your device. While the primary reasons for using such a program usually tend to revolve around protecting your passwords and making it impossible for hackers or anyone else to steal them, there are also several practical areas of convenience where these programs hold major value as well.

At PC Laptops, we're proud to assist with a variety of computer security needs for all of our desktop and laptop computers, including everything from antivirus and anti-malware software to add-on programs like password managers. What are some of the key areas of value added by password managers, and why should you be strongly considering using one if you aren't already? Here's a basic rundown.

Strong Random Password Generation

Starting out in the security-based realm, one of the most important and valuable aspects of password managers is their capability to generate strong, random passwords. Many people come up with common patterns or simply use the same few passwords over and over again for all of their login needs. In turn, this makes it easier for hackers to guess your various passwords, since they don't have to try a million different combinations to crack them.

However, a password manager is able to create strong passwords, ones that are difficult for even the most advanced computer programs to guess. This helps ensure you're protecting your sensitive information and data, as well as minimizing potential security risks in general.

Syncing Across Multiple Devices

Another great benefit of using a password manager is that it can sync across multiple devices, such as a desktop computer and mobile phone or tablet. This offers you the convenience of being able to access your passwords and login information from anywhere, at any time – all you have to do is log in with the same password manager account on multiple devices and you're ready to go.

Plus, for the times when you might be using a new device or computer, password managers can also use your saved login information to help set up things like email and social media accounts easily. This saves you valuable time and energy in the long run, without having to remember all of your various passwords every single time you need them.

In addition, many password managers also provide additional features like bookmarking and secure note taking, so you can easily keep track of things like customer account numbers and other important information.

Sharing Passwords Securely

For any situation where you need to share a password with someone else, the password manager is also able to safely and securely handle these situations. This can be extremely beneficial when you're working on a project at work or school that requires multiple people to have access to the same information, such as an article for class or project guidelines.

For instance, the password manager will usually create a secure link or code that those who you're sharing the password with can use to gain access to the account, while still protecting your information at the same time. This helps keep things safe and secure, so you don't have to worry about whether your data is being compromised.

Convenient Autofill Features

Jumping into the realm of convenience, many password managers also provide various autofill features that you can use to automatically fill in your login information when logging into an account or website. This is useful for everything from bank accounts and work logins to shopping websites, as well as things like social media profiles and email addresses.

While this might seem like a small benefit at first glance, it can be extremely helpful and time-saving in the long run. Many times, you simply don't want to waste time typing out your various usernames and passwords manually each time you log in somewhere.

Easier to Change Passwords

Another convenience-based benefit is that password managers can help make it easier to change your passwords regularly. This can be done on a schedule, or you can manually adjust them as needed.

The key here is that many people tend to simply leave their passwords the same for years at a time, which makes them susceptible to hacking and data breaches. However, a password manager can help you easily change them on a regular basis, to keep your account information safe and secure at all times.

Storing More than Just Passwords

Moreover, many password managers will also store other information for you, such as credit card and bank account numbers, which can be a huge benefit if you need to make purchases or pay bills online. This is often done through the use of secure document storage features that are available within the program itself.

While there are certainly some potential cons here, as with any other computer program, the benefits of password managers far outweigh their downsides in most cases. So if you value safety and convenience when it comes to your online accounts, a password manager provides an excellent solution for all of your needs.

As you can see, there are several ways that using a password manager can benefit you both practically and conveniently as well. Whether you're just starting out with a new device, or you simply want to improve your online security and save yourself some time in the long run, it's definitely worth giving a password manager program a try!

For more on this, or to learn about any of our computer or laptop sales or repair solutions, speak to our team at PC Laptops today.