Answered from cited sources · retrieved September 20, 2026
how to create a strong password
Create a strong password by making it long, unique, and random, and use a password manager to store it securely.
To create a strong password, prioritize length, uniqueness, and randomness. Aim for at least 12 to 16 characters, as longer passwords are significantly harder to crack. Use a unique password for every account to prevent a single breach from compromising your other services. Avoid personal information, common words, keyboard patterns, or sequences. If you struggle to remember them, consider using a passphrase—a series of random, unrelated words—or a reputable password manager, which can generate, store, and autofill complex passwords for you. Additionally, enable multifactor authentication whenever possible for an essential extra layer of security.
- Prioritize Length. Prioritize length by using at least 12 to 16 characters. Longer passwords exponentially increase the time required for automated tools to guess them.
- Ensure Uniqueness. Use a unique, random password for every account. Avoid reusing passwords, as a breach in one account could expose others. Password managers are recommended to handle this complexity.
- Avoid Predictable Information. Avoid personal details like birthdays, names, or addresses, as well as common patterns like 1234, qwerty, or dictionary words that are easily guessed.
- Use Tools and Passphrases. Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. If you must create one manually, consider a passphrase—a series of random, unrelated words.
Sources
- How Do I Create a Good Password? | NISTnist.gov · published April 28, 2025
- Use Strong Passwordscisa.gov
- Creating Strong Passwords and Other Ways To Protect Your Accounts | Consumer Adviceconsumer.ftc.gov · published November 10, 2024
- Create and use strong passwords - Microsoft Supportsupport.microsoft.com
- Create a strong password & a more secure accountsupport.google.com
- How to Create Strong Passwords (and Remember Them!)staysafeonline.org · published February 25, 2026
- How to create strong passwordssupport.google.com
- Create a strong password & a more secure account - Google Account Helpsupport.google.com
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