How to Create a Strong Password You Can Actually Use

Weak and reused passwords are one of the most common ways accounts get hacked. When one website suffers a data breach, attackers try the same email and password on banks, email and social media. Using a strong, unique password for every account is the simplest way to protect yourself.

What makes a password strong?

• Length: this matters most. Aim for at least 12–16 characters, and more for important accounts.
• Randomness: no names, birthdays, keyboard patterns (qwerty, 123456) or common words.
• Variety: a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols.
• Uniqueness: never reuse a password across different sites.

How to generate a strong password

1. Open the Password Generator.
2. Choose the length.
3. Select which kinds of characters to include.
4. Copy the password and save it in your password manager.

Try it now: Password Generator is free, works in your browser and needs no signup.

Is a generated password safe?

Our generator creates passwords on your own device using your browser’s built-in security features. The password is not sent to our servers.

How to remember dozens of passwords

You do not need to. Use a password manager: the one built into your browser or phone, or a dedicated app. It stores every password securely and fills them in for you. You only need to remember one strong master password.

Turn on two-factor authentication

Even a strong password can be stolen through phishing. Two-factor authentication (a code from an app or SMS) adds a second lock. Turn it on for email, banking and social media at minimum.

Password mistakes to avoid

• Adding “1” or “!” to an old password and calling it new.
• Saving passwords in a plain text file or a photo.
• Sharing passwords by chat or email.
• Typing your password into a page you reached from a suspicious email link.

FAQ

How often should I change my password?

Current security guidance suggests changing it when there is a reason, such as a breach or suspicious activity, rather than on a fixed schedule, as long as it is strong and unique.

Try it now: Password Generator is free, works in your browser and needs no signup.