Online Security – Password Management Software

It seems every website we visit has a password requirement for a “personalized experience.” And for most, we probably use the same password as who can remember every different instance for each site and service we use on the internet? However, this introduces security risks because if someone gets your common password, they could access many of your personal accounts. How do you remember every password each site asks for? Simple. You don’t. You use specialized software, and we can help cut through the clutter with our piece – Online Security Series – Password Management Software.

Information on Password Management

For men 50 and over, technology is an essential part of our everyday lives. (If you’re anything like me, everything from banking and investing to shopping is done online.) You would be hard-pressed to find any security expert that promotes redundant passwords across platforms. And standards now are so complex it’s hopeless to remember what you entered from one site to the next. This is where getting a password management software can be a valuable investment.

Password management software can be helpful for two primary reasons. For starters, it will remember your passwords for you and store them in a safe, encrypted location, so you don’t have to risk someone stealing it. Another feature is that these services it they can make strong passwords that are impossible to guess. Using the management software can be a proactive and secure alternative than keeping track of your passwords on your own.

There are different options with password management software, and we have listed choices so you can make an informed decision.

Free in Internet Browsers

We will not review each browser in this piece, (that is coming soon) but if you weren’t aware, the top three (Chrome, Edge & Firefox) all have built in password managers. They offer the management service and generators as in other software, along with monitoring and cross-device use with syncing. They are relatively easy to configure and use and allow the local administration that you would expect.

For home use with minimal expectations, you should be able to get what you need from the built-in features from your browser. But if you’re looking for something specifically made for password management that encompasses more features, we’ve included the more common names in the field.

Dashlane

Dashlane is a highly rated (U.S. News Report) password management software solution and provides both a paid and free version. Dashlane has browser plugins for all primary web services, such as Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, and they also have a desktop and mobile apps for Windows, Android, and Apple products. The free version is excellent for one device and can store up to 50 different accounts in the secure vault that has multi-factor authentication. Dashlane also can fill out information for you, such as delivery addresses and contact details.

The premium version lets you synchronize all your mobile devices so your passwords will be available everywhere. Dashlane also monitors for data breaches and makes sure that none of your stored information is on the dark web. It can also act as a file storage system and even has a VPN.

The Dashlane basic package lists for $59.99 annually for the Individual Premium plan, but offers premium family plans for up to 6 users.

LastPass

LastPass is an excellent option for a password management software system and features a free and premium version, the premium version coming in two packages. LastPass also has browser plugins for the major web browsers but also includes Internet Explorer and Opera.

LastPass not only stores passwords, but you can also use it to store credit card information and delivery addresses. You can even use it to store encrypted notes, details of insurance policies, and much more. The premium version lets you log in to apps on your phone, a vital feature if you were ever to lose your phone since you could keep people from accessing your emails and social media accounts. Another significant feature of LastPass is the two-factor authentication, which helps make sure that you are the one logging into the account and not a stranger.

They offer a premium version for $3 a month and a family version for $4 a month. This is less than Dashlane, but you are losing the ability to keep your information safe on the dark web.

Keeper Password Manager

Keeper Password Manager is a premium-only password management software, with no free version, although there is a 30-day trial. Keeper offers a wide variety of browser plugins and desktop and mobile apps. They offer support and data sync on an unlimited number of devices, perfect for extended family or small business use.

A similar function to Dashlane, Keeper will notify you if any of your information makes it to the dark web through a data breach. The software will track and notify you of redundant passwords, then help you create a strong alternative. Keeper offers the ability to share files securely between users, a useful feature for the small business owner.

Pricing varies on the solution needed, but they provide a range of options from Family (approximately $6 – $8 a month) to Enterprise, even Student deals, so they may have something fitting your price requirements.

Final Thoughts on Password Management Software

There are plenty of good reasons for using password management systems. Security, convenience, assurance, take your pick. But for men 50 and over, why not use technology to its fullest extent and let the software do the work for you? The key being you don’t need inadequate password management practices in today’s market. Granted, there are many more packages listed here, but these three provide solid value at a great price. Each works you’re your favorite browser via plugins so you can use them on practically multiple devices and access them with their mobile apps. All three here will protect your passwords and give you the confidence to feel safe online.

We hope that you find this article helpful in addressing you concerns on password management software and can use it to make an informed decision. We have other blogs on online security you can read up on, click here to access them.

As always, if you don’t see something here you want, please reach out directly to us through our Contact page or leave a comment below. Stay safe and all the best ~ Glen.