A computer password is a string of characters used to verify a user’s identity and grant access to devices, accounts, networks, or services. Passwords are one of the most basic and essential forms of cybersecurity. They help protect personal data, confidential documents, financial accounts, and even entire systems from unauthorized access and misuse.
The idea behind passwords dates back to the early days of computing in the 1960s, when systems began requiring unique credentials to separate user data. Today, passwords are used in nearly every digital interaction, from logging into a smartphone to accessing online banking.
Passwords work by comparing what a user enters to a stored version—usually not the actual password, but a hash (a scrambled version created by a one-way algorithm). If the hashes match, access is granted. This method helps protect passwords even if someone gains access to the system's storage.
Despite their importance, passwords are also a weak point in cybersecurity. Many people reuse passwords across multiple accounts or use simple, easy-to-guess ones like "123456" or "password." Such weak passwords can easily be cracked through brute-force attacks (guessing many combinations quickly) or dictionary attacks (using common words and phrases).
A strong password follows a few basic principles. It should be:
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Long – at least 12 characters.
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Complex – using a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols.
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Unpredictable – not based on common words, personal information, or keyboard patterns.
For added security, many systems now use multi-factor authentication (MFA), which requires a password plus an additional step like a text message code or biometric scan. This makes it much harder for attackers to gain access even if they have the password.
Password managers have also grown in popularity. These tools store and encrypt your passwords and can generate strong, unique ones for each site you visit. This means users only have to remember one master password instead of dozens of different ones.
Another emerging trend is passwordless authentication, which replaces passwords entirely with methods like biometrics (fingerprints, face scans), hardware tokens, or secure links sent via email or app. While still developing, this may become the norm in the near future.
Ultimately, good password hygiene—like changing them regularly, not writing them down in insecure places, and not sharing them—remains key to staying safe online.
Examples of Strong Passwords
Here are three examples of strong, secure passwords. These are randomly generated and follow best practices:
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Tr!7mVe92&pQzLx@
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xW4#tYz!2mKv8Nc$
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uR9^qlZ6@Gbw#1Mt
Each one is at least 12 characters long and contains a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Avoid using these exact ones—use a password manager to create your own unique versions.
In summary, strong passwords are a vital defence in the digital world. Creating and managing them properly is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to protect yourself from cyber threats.
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