How do you remember your usernames and passwords?

  • Keep them in a Word document on your computer? [WRONG ANSWER]
  • Sticky Note under your keyboard? [WRONG ANSWER]
  • Sheet of paper under your blotter? [WRONG ANSWER]
  • Use the same password for everything? [WRONG ANSWER]

Give up?  One very secure method of slaying the password dragon is to use a password manager.

I have been using 1Password for the past three years, and I love it!  The concept is that you need to create and remember 1 password and 1 password alone.  You use that 1 password to create complex and unique passwords for all of your online services which are stored in your 1Password vault.  Each time you want to log into an online service, you enter your 1 password and  1Password will automatically insert your username and unique password for that site. It’s a little pricey at $40*, but it’s well worth it, in my opinion.  Watch this short 2 min video for an overview.

The Mac version has a 30 day “Try Before You Buy” option.  The application downloaded from AgileBits website (https://agilebits.com/onepassword) will remain fully functional for the first 30 days after you install it. After this initial trial period, you will need to purchase a license to continue using without restrictions.  See the Agilebits education store for pricing.

ITD will conduct a 1Password informational and instructional class if there is enough interest, so email Ray if interested.

Looking for a Free Password Manager?

LastPass comes highly recommended by industry experts, but I don’t have personal experience with using it.  The basic version of LastPass is free, so you don’t have to make a commitment before you try it.  The Premium version of LastPass is $12 per year. The added service is having access on your mobile phone with the LastPass app.  Check out their website.