#Lifehacker best password manager how to
#Lifehacker best password manager software
#Lifehacker best password manager free

The extensions are responsible for autofilling passwords and other forms, as well as for generating and saving new passwords when you change one or make a new account. Web browser compatibility: We tested only those password managers that offered browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.Support for ChromeOS is generally covered by Chrome browser extensions. We noted Linux compatibility but didn’t require it. Desktop and laptop compatibility: A password manager should have a Windows and macOS app you can use to browse, add, and edit your information.We looked at three different kinds of compatibility. This helps plug any security holes and shows that the developers are frequently working on the app. Password managers should receive frequent updates, especially after large operating system changes (like the launch of Windows 11 or macOS Monterey).

#Lifehacker best password manager software

Compatibility: A great password manager runs on just about anything, regardless of what hardware and software you and your family use.

Sync between devices (and no limits on the number of devices you can use): You probably have more than one device that you use every day, between your home computer, your work computer, your phone, and your laptop a good password manager should offer cloud syncing so that your passwords are accessible anywhere on an unlimited number of devices.

#Lifehacker best password manager free

Unlimited password storage: Any paid password manager should be able to store an unlimited number of passwords and other records, and enough free ones offer unlimited storage that you shouldn’t settle for less.

Security audits aren’t perfect-they are just a snapshot of the software and infrastructure-but they are a signal of trust and transparency. But those promises of security only go so far, so we require that any password managers we recommend participate in regular third-party security audits (preferably ones they make public) and have a bug bounty program. A good password manager needs to use strong encryption to protect your data on your computer, on your password manager’s server, and when your data is moving between the two. Good protection for your passwords: You’re trusting your password manager with your entire digital existence, and your password manager should store your data securely.

#Lifehacker best password manager how to

Regardless of the password manager you use, it’s important to protect your data with a strong master password-we have advice for how to do that below. Bitwarden works on the same devices as 1Password, so you can use it with any computer, phone, tablet, or browser. But the free version of Bitwarden offers the core features you need in a password manager, including the ability to sync as many passwords as you want between as many devices as you own, support for software two-factor authentication, and sharing between two people with separate logins. Plus, Bitwarden isn’t as polished overall and lacks the in-app guidance of 1Password, which makes it harder for beginners to get the hang of. The free version of Bitwarden gets the basics right and doesn’t cost a thing, but it lacks a few features that make 1Password such a standout option, including password checkups, breach reports, and 1 GB of encrypted storage (all features you get with Bitwarden’s reasonably priced $10 per year premium plan).