Here at Creative Network Solutions, we are Preston’s leading IT support and network services experts. From secure remote access services to business VoIP, we are the team you can count on. And this is our guide to everything you should know about creating more robust and secure passwords.
What are the simple steps for stronger passwords?
There are a number of simple steps anyone can follow to create passwords that will be less likely to be hacked or guessed, and will therefore be more likely to keep your company or business safe. These steps include:
- Combining characters
- Avoiding consecutive characters
- Using a unique password
- Changing the password regularly
Combining characters for stronger passwords
Combining upper and lower case letters with numbers and certain special characters can help to create a password that is much more difficult to crack or guess. For a strong 16 character password, using 8 lower case letters, with 8 different types of characters can be a great way to create a password that is strong and robust. To help make this password easier to remember you could use a passphrase. This involves choosing a phrase that has meaning to you, and using the first letter of each word in the phrase as a standard character, which is then strengthened by the addition of numbers and special characters too.
Avoiding consecutive characters for stronger passwords
When choosing numbers or letters, or even special characters to make your password up tot he right number of characters, you should avoid choosing any that are consecutive. Consecutive numbers and letters are easier to guess and crack, which could put your security at risk. For this same reason, you should always avoid any number patterns or alternative sequences that can also be easy to work out.
Using a unique password for increased security
Make sure that you use a unique password for every single account you make. This is crucial, as once hackers have access to one account, they will try and use the same passwords and information to access anything else they can find with an account in your name. Using a unique password for each account therefore allows you to minimize the risk across your online accounts.
Changing the password regularly for increased security
Finally, you should always be changing your password regularly, even if you have not been hacked. This can help keep your password safe and secure, and makes this even more difficult for cyber criminals to get hold of.
For more information or advice about your network security, systems, or email solutions, why not get in touch with the experts today, here at Creative Network Solutions.