Last year the NIST recommendation for password length was a minimum of 16 characters, preferably more. The examples shown in the Password strength chart below, are the type that have been generated by a Password Manager.
Click image to expand.
Using a Password Manager enables you automatically generate a new password at whatever length you choose, and you never need to remember it, or write it down.
It is not so much “if” a password can be cracked, but how long will it take to crack it.
Bitwarden’s Password Strength Testing Tool estimates the following password, that was generated in KeePass:
I2Y8aCj b_UyvDiX]5’bTi[\q8LG}^
will take centuries crack.
Bitwarden say it is safe to use a real password in the Strength Checker. However, if you are more comfortable using similar passwords to what you normally use, that is sufficient to give you a guide.
With the rise of quantum computers, it is even more important to use stronger passwords.
There are numerous Password Managers available, and not only do they give you greater security, they make logging into your accounts easy.
The best Password Manager is the one that you find the easiest to use.
Many people are a bit reluctant to try password managers, because it might feel too complicated to set up. Unless you can get some assistance from someone to do it, I suggest looking at YouTube instructional videos. There are free Password Managers available, so it is worth playing around with different versions, until you find one you are comfortable with.
My favourite one is KeePass, which is free, and resides in my computers, not in the Cloud. I can run the portable version from a memory stick on any computer, without it leaving any trace. Of course, other people have different preferences.
It is worth experimenting, or looking at recommendations online, to find one that suits you. You won’t break anything by trying out a few. The whole point is to make your computing experience easier, and also increase your level of security at the same time.
Ronnie's Blog 