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Saving passwords. KeePass - secure password storage

Now on the Internet there are a huge number of services, for full participation in which registration is required. The same situation arises in the field of applications, websites, forums. All this leads to the fact that the average user accumulates a dozen passwords that he must remember.

According to the recommendations of specialists, each service should have its own, unique, password, complex, preferably containing a chaotic set of numbers and letters of various registers, and all this is at least thirteen characters. Naturally, remembering at least one such password is problematic, let alone several.

This is what the password storage program does. It ensures the reliability and security of data for logging into various accounts. This article presents the best of the best.

Dashlane

This program was released 4 years ago - in 2012, and even then it met all the criteria for such an application.

To date, Dashlane has gone through several updates and is still popular. Some argue that it is the best password storage program.

Among its features:

  • two-factor authentication;
  • in case of loss of access to accounts - the ability to share passwords;
  • change passwords for several services at once in a couple of clicks.

Dashlane monitors the situation in real time - notifies if the account has been hacked. She is able to automatically generate new passwords on her own. Local storage of passwords is encrypted. There is a record of information for payment systems. You can put additional protection with a PIN code, a master password, set up automatic data blocking.

Besides Windows, Dashlane also has an Android program for storing passwords. In general, they are free, but the paid versions include the ability to sync with all devices on which this product is installed.

KeePass

KeePass, unlike its previous counterpart, is completely free and, moreover, is open source. An encrypted database ensures the reliability and security of information storage in it.

KeePass supports autocomplete, password verification by difficulty level and is able to generate them itself, as well as synchronize the device. This password storage program has many browser plugins. Through it, you can export data in text form, among its settings there is an access option for multiple users.

The database provides for regular (standard) and advanced search. The base can be blocked if necessary or, on the contrary, quickly unblocked. This provides additional protection. For the same purposes, the included options are clearing the clipboard, setting a password.

KeePass officially releases only programs for Windows, Linux, X OS. Third-party developers offer options for Android and iPhone. These apps are fully synced with KeePass for PC.

Kaspersky Password Manager

Kaspersky Password Manager is a paid password storage program. She can generate them, works with autocomplete on sites, checks passwords invented by users for difficulty. In general, it performs all the functions of a quality application for the purposes pursued.

The official website of Kaspersky states that the program provides full protection for online payments and communication on the Internet. You can also customize Why is Kaspersky better than free alternatives? This program for storing passwords in Russian is officially presented. She does not need crackers and additional settings. By purchasing Kaspersky Password Manager, the user gets rid of the "headache" and can immediately start working with it.

The program has versions for Windows, Mac, Android.

LastPass

Another free program for storing passwords, a premium subscription to which gives the user additional options, for example, synchronization of various devices.

LastPass can be downloaded as a program or installed as an app in your browser. In this case, it will be responsible for autocomplete. The program also has the main functions in the form of generating new passwords, real-time protection against hacking, which manifests itself in a message to the user and an offer of instant replacement in one click.

LastPass can also store secure notes in three forms: text, audio, and graphics.

It is installed on PCs with Windows, Linux, OS X, Mac and on iPhone, Android smartphones.

Safe in Cloud

This password storage software works directly with Google Drive, Dropbox, SkyDrive storages. Online synchronization of devices on Android, iPhone or Windows is also carried out through them. The developers also offer browser plugins.

The program is configured to export and import data. That is, you can import old passwords from other applications or export the entire list in text form or The function of backing up and restoring information from the application is available.

Encryption in Safe in Cloud is standard, but justifiable. When you log into the application, you are prompted for a master password.

Writing passwords to a txt file is no longer the same. The right users store sensitive information in the right programs. We have prepared an overview of five password managers - convenient and functional. Their assessment is based solely on personal opinion.

Multilingual free program for storing and generating passwords with open source and a number of ready-made plugins - encryption, synchronization, generation of pronounceable and easy-to-remember passwords.

Technologies

The password database is encrypted with AES-256. It is possible to use a multi-pass key transformation. This increases the resistance to direct attacks - perhaps in this regard, KeePass is more reliable than other password managers.

KeePass is stored in a file that can be synced using Dropbox.

Functions

  • Create a record.
  • Duplicate recording.
  • Sorting records - by columns, by tags.
  • Record groups - tree and sort.
  • Search by records - fast or advanced.
  • Copying record data - double-clicking on the field for copying, deleting the copied information from the clipboard after a certain period of time.
  • AutoType for automatic data entry in browsers and other programs.
  • Storing dates.
  • Generator of passwords, including those with specified parameters.
  • Lock button - when you log in again, the program asks for the master password again.
  • Base and program settings.
  • Change of master password.
  • Triggers.
  • Export files: TXT, HTML, XML, CSV.
  • Import files: 35 formats.
  • Database transfer.
Overall impression: everything is cool, but the look is clearly for old school lovers.

Versions

Available in versions for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows - at least 7. The Windows version of eWallet integrates with Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome browsers, and the version for OS X - only with Safari. The program is paid, but there is a test version for 30 days.

Technologies

The database file is encrypted using AES-256. The base is synchronized only manually.

Functions

  • Category tree.
  • Adding a customization card.
  • Customization of fields in cards.
  • More than 30 templates - credit cards, passwords, bank details.
  • Tree statistics - counters by information type.
  • List of recent cards.
  • Password generator.
  • "Live fields", for example, a call by clicking on a number field.
  • Auto Pass - automatic substitution of username and password in the browser field.
  • Smart Copy - fast copying of card numbers.
Overall impression: many functions, but usability is lame, plus the design in the style of a symbolic wallet with plastic cards gives a strange feeling.

Application supporting 30 languages. But we don't really care.

Versions

Windows and Mac OS X, applications for iOS, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Mobile, Palm OS and Symbian mobile platforms. At the same time, the desktop version does not imply data import from Chrome.

Technologies

Synchronized using cloud technology, the base is encrypted using the AES-256 standard.

Functions

  • Creation of records.
  • Search.
  • Print - logins, personas, notes.
  • Auto Login.
  • Password generator.
  • Additional protection for each record. To open the data, you need to enter a master password.
  • Import of entered data from the browser.
  • Sending records by e-mail - requires entering a master password.
  • Create shortcuts on the desktop and in the browser.
  • Integration with Windows Login.
  • The ability to open multiple windows of the program.
  • Administration: creating and editing user groups, sharing records for user groups, synchronizing databases when editing by users, checking which records a particular user has accessed.
  • Profiles of different users on one copy of the program.
  • Backups.
  • A portable version of the database that can be stored on a USB flash drive.
  • Unicode control characters.
  • Filling out long forms in online stores with one click.
  • Screen keyboard.
Overall impression: there are a number of minor usability bugs - for example, the password generator in Windows is launched from the "Start" panel or by clicking on a shortcut; it is impossible to launch it from the program itself. And other similar little things are insignificant, but unpleasant.

Versions

Extension for major browsers - IE, Firefox, Safari, Chrome, Opera, works only on the web. There are versions for mobile devices iPhone, iPad, Android, BlackBerry and others. It is possible to manage the password database through the web interface on the LastPass website - it is quite convenient.

There is a portable client for Windows - you download the database and then you can use it offline.

Technologies

LastPass is a cloud-based service that does not require synchronization. The base is encrypted using the AES-256 algorithm.

Functions

  • Search.
  • Autocomplete.
  • One-click login.
  • Settings - general, security, etc.
  • Multi-factor authentication.
  • One-time passwords.
  • Security check to find weak passwords.
  • Automatic protection of credentials from theft on phishing sites.
  • Search for unprotected objects on the computer.
  • Import from previous password manager.
  • Forbidden addresses.
  • Password exchange (access control).
  • Automatic user synchronization.
  • Administration: reports and user management.
  • Bookmarks.
  • Screen keyboard.
  • The program is free, but you will have to pay for additional features such as identifying weak passwords, an on-screen keyboard, and protection against phishing.
Overall impression: strong encryption mechanism, convenient work with passwords in the browser.

The harsh truth of life: there is no point in being overly paranoid - if they really want to hack you, they will hack you. Therefore, it is better to use at least convenient managers - it will not be excruciatingly painful if something happens.

Leave opinions that are very important to us in the comments.

The fact that the number of passwords that need to be remembered is definitely more than the space for them in the head is probably confronted by all active Internet users. And it's one thing - passwords from services and sites that you use every day - these are somehow postponed by themselves. And the other is from some forum that you visit once every couple of months, or even less often. It's generally unrealistic to keep it in mind!

What to do? You can, of course, assign the same password everywhere - but this threatens with big security problems: someone got their hands on the base of some service where you are registered - and you can say goodbye to the whole digital life: they will take away everything, starting with mail and ending with a Steam account.

Okay, we sweep aside this option. Then carefully write down all passwords in a text editor and store them in one file, but here the same problem: what if the file gets lost? Well, it must either be stored in a cloud service so that all passwords are at hand, or manually synchronized. And this file can also accidentally fall into the hands of not very decent people - and then you know. In general, this is also unsafe.

So what, to memorize everything and remember an insane amount of passwords by heart? It won't work either! Usually, the user remembers only those passwords that he uses regularly. The rest quickly fall out of memory, especially if they are safe enough - with changing registers, numbers and symbols. In general, in order to make life easier for the user, there is a special type of program - password managers. The main task of such an application is to collect, encrypt and securely store information about all your accounts, making it inaccessible to intruders and available to you. In this article, we'll take a look at five of the most famous password managers that make the life of millions of users around the world a lot easier.

LastPass

One of the most famous password managers is LastPass, the brainchild of the American company LastPass Corporate. Among the conveniences of the program are usually noted its simple interface, multi-platform, reliable encryption of passwords that takes place on your device, and only then the data is already encrypted and transmitted to the company's servers.

The application works on both Windows and Linux, Mac, as well as mobile devices and tablets running iOS and Android, smartphones running Windows Phone, BlackBerry and even FireFox Mobile. In addition to the "home" version, there is also a corporate version that has the function of integrating with a local domain controller and setting access policies. It also stores information about all employee accounts in corporate Internet services. For example, using LastPass, you can configure employees in your organization to access Office 365, Google Apps for Work, and other online business services that your company uses.

To get started with LastPass, you need to download a special program and register in the system. After downloading the installation file, run it, after which the installation window will open. Select the "Advanced Options" option to set program preferences - specifically, you can set the application directory, specify which browsers LastPass extensions will be installed for, and set additional privacy options.

After installation, the application prompts you to log into an existing account or create a new one. When registering for the service, you must specify your valid email address and set a master password. According to the developers, the master password needs very good remember and enter very carefully... If you forget it, at best you will receive a reminder phrase. The administration of the service cannot read the password of the administration itself, which is what they warn us about. The requirements for the master password are as follows: at least eight characters, it is also recommended to use a combination of upper and lower case letters and numbers.

After registration, the program will find passwords in the browsers' storages and offer to import them. Browse the list and click the "Import" button if you want to import your account data. Optionally, you can opt out of this by clicking the "No thanks" button. It should be noted that importing passwords is removed from the browser storage, and services will now be authorized through LastPass services.

Now we launch the browser you usually use and install the add-on. Then we go through authorization - for this, click on the program icon, and in the window that opens, enter the email address you registered with, and the same master password is the only password that you now need to remember.

The "Storage" section contains all the data about your accounts, for convenience sorted into folders-categories. Clicking on a folder will open a list of passwords contained in it. Each password can be viewed by selecting the appropriate option next to it.

In the window for changing account information, you can change the password, the folder where the account is located, add notes, and also configure additional parameters - for example, you can enable automatic login when authorizing on the site.

Another interesting feature of the application, which I would like to draw your attention to, is covered in the section "Form Filling Profiles".

Profile: enter personal information

Here you can create and fill out a user profile by entering information about yourself - last name, first name, patronymic, home address, mobile phone number, credit card information and much more. Now, when registering on sites, you will not need to enter all this over and over again: you just need to select the appropriate profile - and all the data will be filled in automatically.

Automatic filling when registering on mail.ru

When creating a password, you can use a generator that will offer a difficult combination of letters, numbers and symbols to crack and guess - something like sZoxpYi1DZY9, as shown in the figure below. Using the settings, you can set the length of the password and what characters you want to use in it.

The premium version, as mentioned above, has support for syncing passwords with mobile devices. After installing the application, you need to log into LastPass under your account, after which information about all your accounts saved in the system will be downloaded to your mobile device.

It is also possible to view information about each account, edit it or go to the site for which this account was created and log in.

Overall, LastPass makes a very good impression - it is a user-friendly and functional program that has many useful features. The only minor drawbacks are the lack of the ability to synchronize accounts with tablets and mobile devices in the free version - but the developer must somehow monetize his service.

StickyPassword

The next program that I would like to tell you about is Sticky Password from the Czech company Lamantine Software. The app is available on multiple platforms and can also sync your accounts across multiple devices. According to the developers, Sticky Password is able to store all your passwords in an encrypted vault, as well as automatically fill out forms and credit card numbers for quick reference. Your information is protected with a traditional master password, which you need to remember. As is the case with LastPass, the creators of the system report that they do not know our master password, so you need to memorize it well and not forget it. Of the more interesting features in the program, there is support for encryption of the AES-256 standard, biometric authentication and the ability to synchronize the passwords of your devices via Wi-Fi. The authors also promise the correct operation of the application in the four most popular operating systems and sixteen browsers, including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari and Internet Explorer.

Sticky Password is distributed by subscription. When you first install the program, you will be prompted to create an account, after which you will receive a 30 trial days of premium. After one month, Sticky Password is automatically free. Traditionally, premium users have a number of advantages over regular users. For example, only paid users have access to synchronization (both via Wi-Fi and through the company's cloud services), as well as saving backups of the password store in the cloud. This is convenient if, for example, you reinstall the operating system or purchase a new device - you can still quickly recover all passwords in the system. The price of a premium account per user is 1,190 rubles for one year, for a perpetual premium license you will have to fork out for 5,990 rubles

Installing Sticky Password is not particularly difficult - you just need to download the program from the official site and traditionally run the installation file. After installation, the application needs to be configured.

In the next step, you will be prompted to sign in to an account or create a new one, which will require an email address and a master password. In general, everything is standard here too.

In the next window, we confirm the master password and put a checkmark that this same master password is not saved anywhere and only the user knows it. Next, the program will offer to synchronize data through the Sticky Password cloud services. If you have multiple devices, choose the option with synchronization.

Then you need to select the browsers in which you want to use Sticky Password, after that the program is ready to work.

After receiving passwords from the browser storage, the program will remind you of 30 days of free premium subscription, and then, by clicking the "Start" button, you can read a short instruction on how to work with the program and finally launch the working window of the application.

The section "Internet Accounts" contains a list of user accounts found on the computer. Each entry can be edited or deleted, or a new one can be added. It is proposed to group records by folders. Of course, you can create new folders and copy your account data into them.

Section "Internet Accounts"

Another remarkable feature of the program is the ability to save passwords not only for sites, but also for applications. It is possible to select a program and set a username and password to enter it. If the program is not visible in Sticky Password, you must select it through the browse menu.

As with LastPass, the application has the ability to add personal data to fill out forms - this part should be found in the "Business Cards" section. Click the "Add a business card" button - and in the window that opens, you will need to fill in information about yourself. In the future, it can be used to fill out profiles when registering on various resources.

Section "Business cards"

Add information about yourself

An extension appears in browsers with Sticky Password installed - with its help it is possible to quickly go through the authorization process on sites, the accounts for which are located in your password store. To do this, open the menu of options "Internet Accounts", and then select the desired site. The browser will then open the selected resource and add the required login information.

Kaspersky Password Manager

Kaspersky Password Manager is a joint project of Kaspersky Lab and Lamantine Software. Password Manager is based on Sticky Password, so the programs are very similar ... in general, in everything. The application is shareware. The free version can only store up to fifteen accounts; to store more accounts, you must purchase the paid version. It should be noted here that the application is not sold separately; it can only be purchased as part of Kaspersky Total Security or Kaspersky Small Office Security.

However, although Password Manager is included in these applications, it can also be downloaded separately from the Kaspersky Lab website. The installation of the program is, in general, the same as for the previous ones: run the executable file and follow the instructions of the installation wizard. Unlike Sticky Password, here accounts are synchronized with Kaspersky Lab servers, and to enable synchronization, you must specify either the My Kaspersky account for home use as part of Kaspersky Total Security, or your company's account on a special Kaspersky Lab portal for organizations.

In general, Password Manager is almost identical to Sticky Password in terms of its feature set, so we will not go over it in detail. After installation, the program also adds extensions for your browsers. With the help of these extensions, you can go through quick authorization on the sites on which you are registered, and add your data for quick registration, so as not to enter them every time.

Dashlane

Another password manager that I would also like to draw your attention to is Dashlane. On the one hand, it cannot be said that it has any unique features that were not discussed in the previous sections of the review. On the other hand, it is quite convenient and easy to learn. In addition to the "home" version, there is also a corporate version designed for work in an organization. Traditionally, users are offered two account options - regular (free) and premium. The free version has a number of limitations - the user will not be able to sync account data between devices and make a backup of data to a cloud service.

To start using the program, go to its official website and download the application. Installing Dashlane is quite simple - run the executable file and after installation you will see the welcome window. We choose the option with creating an account and enter the necessary data.

When creating an account, we will, of course, be prompted to create a master password. The program will remind you that only you know it and you need to remember the password very well. After all the preparatory steps, the Dashline working window will open.

The password store is located in the Passwords section. As in other programs, passwords can be organized - create category folders for subsequent sorting of accounts. Accounts can be added to the system in two ways: through the program and in the browser, if you enter the data of a record that is still unknown to the system.

Right-clicking on the account icon brings up a context menu with which it is possible to perform actions on it - change the password, delete, change the category and give access to another user. In the Security Dashboard section, the program sets the overall account security rating and suggests changing passwords for accounts that, according to the analysis, are too simple and can be hacked by hackers.

In the Secure Notes section, secure notes are added, which, like in similar programs, will be located in a special section of the storage.

The Payments section contains information about a credit card or bank account, in addition, it is possible to view the purchase history here. The Team section contains options that you can use to exchange data with other users, such as family or colleagues. If you leave any personal data on the sites, you should pay attention to the IDs section, where you enter the data of your passport, driver's license and other personal documents in order to use them if necessary.

Similar to other applications, Dashlane installs browser extensions that allow you to log in to websites and add new accounts to the system. The plugin recognizes when you enter your credentials and prompts you to add your account information to the program.

The advantages of Dashline include a user-friendly interface, ease of use and the ability to analyze your passwords by the system and recommend replacing them with the most reliable ones. But there are also disadvantages - there is no support for the Russian language, and the most important functions are available only in the premium, in the free version there is not even the ability to synchronize passwords between devices.

1 Password

This rounds out our 1Password review. The application differs from all of the listed advanced encryption algorithms, the lack of its own cloud service and licensing. 1Password is a shareware model - there is no subscription option here. After installation, you can use the application for free for thirty days, after which you need to purchase a license once.

We will consider the Windows version of the program as part of this review. The installer of the program can be downloaded from the official website. After installation, the initial setup wizard will start. We select the option I am new to 1Password, the window for saving the password store will open. Select the save folder - by the way, it can be not only a folder on the local hard drive, but also a network directory, or, for example, a folder in a network file storage service (for example, DropBox, OneDrive and other similar services). The program also has the ability to synchronize data via Wi-Fi - convenient if you have multiple devices between which you need to synchronize account data. For synchronization, the system generates a special password that must be entered on other devices.

1Password makes a very good impression. The advantages of the application undoubtedly include a simple and intuitive interface, the reliability of data encryption, a relatively low price and the ability to store the password file not in a cloud service imposed by the developer company, but in any storage of your choice. If DropBox, OneDrive and other similar services are in doubt, then the data can be placed, for example, on a corporate or home server in the local network by opening a folder with a password file for a specific user (or users). The master password should be remembered very well - the data is stored only with you, which means that it will be impossible to recover it. In general, 1Password can be recommended for those users who do not trust cloud services and who prefer not to pay for a subscription, but to purchase a one-time license.

conclusions

The table shows the comparative characteristics of the password managers discussed in the article. In general, they are similar, but it is the functional differences below that will allow everyone to make their choice.

Most Popular Answers. CPU publishes a selection of the most reliable and user-friendly services.

As Lifehacker.com notes, previously, password managers only knew how to store information in encrypted form. Today, such programs provide the ability to store data both on a computer and remotely, change the password with one click and use it to access sites.

The best programs of this type can be run on a computer without an Internet connection, and synchronized with many devices over the network, writes Lifehacker.com.

Some of the managers authorize the user on the sites, others keep a record of passwords and check if the same combination is used in several cases. All of them have their own characteristics and approach the issue of secure data storage in their own way.

LastPass

Lifehacker.com notes that LastPass was one of the first password managers that was convenient to use for storing passwords both online and locally.

LastPass remembers user passwords and allows them to be managed, and automatically changes them if the service for which they were intended was hacked or otherwise compromised. LastPass supports two-factor authentication for password storage using Google Authenticator, USB device, or YubiKey.

In 2014, the user interface was updated in the service, which made it much more convenient to use, and a number of additional functions were added, such as monitoring changes in credit history, generating a secure password and storing and exchanging documents, notifications when one of the sites used is hacked, tools for autocomplete forms and online purchases.

LastPass supports Windows, OS X, Linux, Android, iOS, Windows Phone and Blackberry, as well as plugins for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, and Internet Explorer browsers. The basic version of the service is free, and the premium manager with the maximum functionality and support for mobile platforms is available for $ 12 per year.

As Lifehacker.com notes, many users stated that LastPass made their online life much easier. Thanks to the service, there is no need to use the same password on every site, no need to make mistakes in typing or accidentally send combinations to someone. The manager allows you to block important data when it seems to you that you have been hacked, and motivates you to take better care of security.

Dashlane

Dashlane was launched in 2012 and quickly gained popularity due to its focus on interface, security, ease of login, automatic form filling on web pages, and online shopping.

During the existence of the manager, he has gone through several updates, acquired support for two-factor authentication, the ability to share passwords in case the user has lost access to their accounts and, most importantly, a function thanks to which you can change several passwords to a dozen sites with just a few clicks. Dashlane also notifies the user if one of the resources they are using has been compromised and can independently set new unique passwords.

Tracking purchases and working with a virtual wallet simplifies the work with online retailers and allows you to track all orders within the service. In addition, Dashlane provides the ability to store passwords locally in encrypted form, and also allows you to synchronize them with other devices via cloud storage.

Dashlane runs on Windows, OS X, Android, and iOS, and has plugins for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Internet Explorer. The paid version of the manager allows you to configure the synchronization of various devices. Its cost is $ 40 per year.

KeePass

According to Lifehacker.com, KeePass is suitable for all fans of free and open source software. In this program, all user passwords are stored in an encrypted database on their system and never leave its limits.

KeePass has an application with which you can transfer information to multiple computers, even if the computer being used is locked and the user is left with only a flash card.

The database can be configured to be accessed by multiple users and exported as text.

The manager has a built-in password generator that can check the uniqueness and security of each of the combinations used.

As Lifehacker.com notes, there are a huge number of additional plugins and tools for KeePass that extend its functionality and allow you to use new platforms.

KeePass autocomplete works on almost all systems and browsers, allowing the manager to log in to sites that its counterparts cannot access. It also allows you to use autocomplete in applications, dialog boxes and other forms where you previously had to type everything manually or by copying.

In 2010, Lifehacker.com users chose KeePass as the best password manager for their open source code and approach to security.

KeePass officially supports Windows, OS X and Linux, but thanks to third-party developers, it can also be used on iOS, Android, and Windows Phone.

1Password

1Password has a nice interface, built-in secure notes, a virtual wallet with payment information and a reliable password generator that allows you to form combinations according to specified requests, and not just accept the random option that the algorithm generates.

1Password can be used on a device without network access, or you can sync your password storage via Dropbox, iCloud, Wi-Fi, or network folders.

You can also configure other users' access to the vault or specify contacts in case of an emergency.

1Password supports Windows, OS X, Android, and iOS, and plugins for Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Safari. The premium version of 1Password for one of the systems costs $ 50 (license pack for Mac and Windows - $ 70). Mobile apps and browser extensions are available only to licensees.

Users who chose 1Password commented on its interface and ease of use: the manager is simply enjoyable to interact with. In addition, writes Lifehacker.com, 1Password works in almost any browser, system and dialog box.

Users also noted the "watchtower" feature, which notifies of serious network violations, and support for TouchID on iOS. The disadvantages of the manager were also mentioned, including the inability to edit the database on mobile devices.

RoboForm

Development of RoboForm began in 1999, and since then it has had a loyal following, writes Lifehacker.com. RoboForm can be used both as an autofill tool on the Internet and as a password manager. Encrypted data is stored both locally on the user's device and synchronized over the network. RoboForm can be carried with you on a flash card so that you can use it on any computer without fear of losing your passwords.

The manager can use several profiles, each of which will contain individual information about users, passwords and any other information necessary for frequent use.

How often have you thought about how many accounts you have on various resources? How many usernames and passwords do you have to keep in memory or in a special file on your desktop, hidden from prying eyes? On average, a user can have up to 40 accounts. And, depending on the type of activity, this figure is quite capable of growing by an order of magnitude.

So the top 12 best password managers. The first half is great for personal use, and the second half is great for your team.

Password managers. Personal use

Dashlane
Monitor and change passwords in one click. Support: iOS, Mac, Windows, Android, Web. Cost: Free for a single device, $ 39.99 / year for a premium account.

Splikity
A simple tool for working with passwords. Support: iOS, Chrome, Android, Firefox, Safari. Cost: $ 4.99 per month or $ 49.99 per year.

LastPass
Easy and convenient cross-platform access to your passwords from any browser. Support: Web, Mac, iOS, Android, Windows. Cost: Free for one device; $ 12 per year premium.

Onesafe
Your own safe with passwords. Support: iOS, Mac, Windows, Android. Cost: $ 19.99 for PC, $ 4.99 for mobile.

1Password
Convenient password manager. Support: iOS, Mac, Windows, Android. Cost: $ 49.99.

iCloud Keychain
Multi-platform software for Apple users. Support: iOS, Mac. Cost: free.

Password managers. Corporate use

CommonKey
An affordable password manager for teamwork. Support: Web, Chrome. Cost: free for groups of up to 3 users; $ 2 per user per month.

Zoho vault
Convenient manager for remote work. Support: Chrome, Firefox. Cost: from $ 1 per month per user.

Meldium
Convenient password manager. Support: Firefox, Safari, Chrome. Cost: from $ 24 per month for 20 users.

Vaultier
Convenient software for it-companies and larger-scale management. Support: Web, Ubuntu. Cost: $ 99 per month for cloud storage.

SimpleSafe
One-time access to passwords by reference. Support: hosting a web application on local servers. Cost: $ 90.

Passwork
Maximum password protection for team work with the ability to install on your server. Supplied with open source code for auditing. Support: Web, Android, iOS, Chrome, Windows. Cost: $ 1.5 per month per user (or 25 rubles per month per user for Russia).

Let's now take a closer look at each of the managers.

Top 6 password managers for personal use

1Password (support Mac, iOS, Android, Windows)

1Password is one of the most popular password managers out there today. It works both online and offline. It can sync via wifi, icloud or even dropbox without any problems, which means that syncing your data is completely under your control.

Of course, the manager has a mobile app. It has good functionality that allows you to easily enter the desired profiles, enable unlocking the "storage" via iPhone`s Touch ID, etc.

1Password lets you save more than just passwords. You can enter delivery addresses, phone and credit card numbers, driver's license and other important data in the "safe".

LastPass (Supports Web, Mac, iOS, Android, Windows)

What is LastPass and what is it served with? This password manager will work anywhere. You heard right. It really works all over the place. There are extensions for all popular Internet browsers, an application for Windows on PC, Linux and Mac. It won't be a problem to find an option for Android, iOS, Windows Phone, Blackberry in the mobile app stores. In addition, when used on one device, the program is free, which makes it very attractive for ordinary users.

The premium version of the program makes it possible to synchronize it with as many devices as you can think of. In the mobile application, you can paste the required password into the required field using the usual copy-paste method. Apple owners can get instant access to the application through the Touch ID function. In general, the developers took care of everyone.

LastPass does a great job of storing credit card numbers, bank accounts, so you can access that data from anywhere. If necessary, you can create access to a particular folder with passwords for other users.

On a larger scale, LastPass Enterprise empowers business owners to manage company-wide passwords through an extension in their web browser. That is, you can monitor the status of the passwords of any member of the group and make adjustments in time if necessary.

Dashlane (Web, Mac, iOS, Android, Windows)


This manager stands up for fresh data. Once installed, Dashlane scans your entire database for weak, damaged or duplicate passwords. Then he will politely offer to change them from time to time to maintain the proper level of security. If suddenly the site you are using is hacked, the manager will immediately warn you about the danger so that you can quickly change the "lock".

By the way, changing your password is quick and completely painless here. You can carry out the procedure in a couple of clicks. Dashlane also made the transition from another manager easy and enjoyable. The program will simply scan your applications and computer for passwords, and then import them into its database.

Great news for those who often make purchases in online stores: the manager not only saves bank card and account numbers, but also receipts from stores, makes details of expenses. The latter can be a good help for those who are used to keeping records of the family budget. After all, everyone is interested in the question, where does the salary go so long before the next one?

oneSafe (Mac, iOS, Android, Windows)



This manager was originally conceived by the developers as something more. That is, not just a safe for passwords, but also a reliable storage for files of various types. You can easily password-protect files on your own computer, and then easily make backups to any storage device.

Secret videos and photos on your mobile phone, pictures of your bank cards, insurance policy, and even the code for the locker in the gym. OneSafe will reliably hide all this from prying eyes. Another cool feature is Decoy Safe. This feature allows you to create a phantom, that is, fake data for potential thieves. And let them hack a non-existent account ... Convenient navigation system allows you to find all the data you need easily and easily.

The program is also good in that you can independently choose the way of entering: from swipe and Touch ID to a pin code or the newly introduced Tri-Pin technology. Another plus is cross-platform support, so synchronization of all involved devices will not cause any problems.

iCloud Keychain (iOS, Mac)



This is software for Apple owners and fans. Keychain software has been serving its users faithfully for several years now. In fact, the program has been working for Mac for a long time. This is Apple's default password manager. Which means, if you are listed on your Mac's registry, then you are automatically the owner of a Keychain account.

As for iCloud Keychain, today it is integrated into all the latest versions of iOS and OS X. And protects all data synchronized between your devices via iCloud. All information is automatically managed by the program.

This software cannot be called just a password manager. In fact, this is a complete safe for your classified information. There you can enter access to servers, wi-fi network settings, protected disk images, etc. The program easily switches to new versions and synchronizes via iCloud. The manager gets access to the settings on iOS through the Safari browser. It will automatically fill out forms and display your credit card numbers. All of this is protected by your iPhone's four-digit digital pin code. And Touch ID protects the system from strangers. As for the desktop application, Keychain will allow you to see all saved passwords and conveniently sort them into folders. This software was developed exclusively for the Apple ecosystem. But the program only works with Safari. The developers note that the choice of Firefox or Chrome is not supported.

Splikity (iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Safari)



It is not without reason that this program is considered an excellent manager for newbies. The interface is extremely simple and straightforward. You can save your passwords both on the Web and on mobile devices. The online control panel allows you to easily carry out any password operations. As for browser extensions, Splikity can be integrated into Firefox, Safari or Chrome, which will remember the data for selected resources.

You can also install the application on your smartphone. After logging in, the data is synchronized and becomes available for work. As long as you use the browser application, the program will automatically enter all the data into the database. If you need to send a login to another user, no problem. This can be done via e-mail, while your password will remain hidden from prying eyes.

Top 6 password managers for business

Now let's move on to the software that will significantly facilitate and secure the work with passwords in companies. It has its own requirements for the functionality and tooling of programs. For example, general profiles, in which several users can work at the same time. This is useful for global administration and monitoring the security of company data.

Of course, you can use any of the above managers, but their functionality is significantly limited and not focused on the business environment.

Passwork (Web, Android, iOS, Chrome, Windows)


IT professionals appreciate the transparent encryption algorithms and software capabilities that open source provides. There are two ways you can use Passwork. First, you can install the boxed version on your own server and get an open source, audited product that you can modify as needed. Secondly, you can use the cloud version. After installation, you will have access to all the numerous features of the manager.

The developers approached the distribution of access rights in a very interesting way. For example, a new user can be added to a temporary group by sending him an encrypted link with a one-time password by e-mail. The administrator can easily check who has access to which passwords, and also easily track the history of actions with them.

All passwords in the program can be sorted into groups, and then into folders. Actually, it is very convenient for a large team to work in a group. And in folders, it will be easier to separate all accounts according to their functional purpose. In addition, this program has a browser extension, so you can go to the desired account quickly and without unnecessary steps.

Thus, you can work with colleagues in groups, invite by e-mail or a special link, provide access to single passwords, and a number of other features sharpened specifically for collaboration.

It should be noted the pleasant and minimalistic design of Passwork, which for some reason is alien to most password managers.

Passwork provides a public API, so third-party developers can code their client applications or integrate more tightly with their infrastructure.

Passwork developers are located in Russia, so the service is fully adapted for the Russian language (including the cost of use: 290 rubles versus $ 18 per year per user). And the boxed version is adapted for Russian business and government agencies.

Meldium (Firefox, Safari, Chrome)


Meldium is basically a combination of a web application launcher and a password manager. It's great for working in groups with shared accounts.

The interface is pretty straightforward. You have a home page that displays all involved accounts. One click is enough to fill out a form in a particular browser tab. Any team member can quickly open the required application. With the help of the browser application and the Meladium profile, the user will have access to the company's passwords sorted into groups. If necessary, administrators can bring in a new user. To do this, just add it manually or send an invitation to e-mail.

This program will also come in handy if you need to make access to your personal profile. Meladium allows you to add all personal profiles of employees and use the control panel for further administration and monitoring. The program also allows you to track password usage across the entire company. If it detects weak or outdated passwords, Meladium will mark them as unreliable and promptly suggest updating. It can be said that the program finds and repairs holes in the security wall of your organization.

Zoho Vault (Chrome, Firefox)


The next repository on our list is called Zoho. This software allows your team members to easily and securely share important information. All you need to do is download and install a specialized extension for one of the supported browsers. True, there are only two of the latter.

Using a CSV file, you can quickly import all passwords if you switched to Zoho from another manager. In personal managers, export tools serve only this purpose.

The program's reporting tools will notify you of all changes that occur in your accounts. Be it operations with access or changing a password, using a particular login, etc. The business version provides administrators with very broad capabilities. A user-friendly and intuitive interface allows you to quickly understand how Zoho Vault works.

SimpleSafe (Self-Hosted Web App)



This program is highly appreciated by IT specialists. They note that SimpleSafe can be safely considered an excellent launching pad with impressive functionality and tools.

The process of acquaintance with the program begins with a careful configuration of the environment, database fields, where passwords will subsequently be stored. Passwords of the same format can be sorted into groups. When configuring SimpleSafe, you are free to name the database fields as you wish. Now, when your team needs to track this or that private information, it will be a simple task.

The control panel in the program functions in the same way as in other similar managers, so that team members will be very comfortable with its interface. True, it cannot boast of its own browser extension SimpleSafe. So if you need to enter a password, you will have to use the copy / paste method. The thing is that the software is installed on local servers.

Vaultier (Web, Ubuntu)


Vaultier is another teamwork password manager that you can install on your own server. However, it is quite possible to work with a lightweight version of the software - the cloud version of this "safe". Plus, Vaultier packs seamlessly into a Docker container with a full install.

Vaultier relies on personal encrypted keys to protect passwords, even while protecting passwords for your entire team. Passwords are sorted into “vaults”, then “cards” with “secrets”. The latter contain passwords and account names. Such groups can also be used to delimit access levels. That is, each user can have access to the whole "safe" or only to one "card" within it. At the same time, administrators can revoke or assign the access level to any member of the team.

It is a password manager for the work team with an emphasis on security. Moreover, each team member can safely use it to protect personal accounts.

CommonKey (Web, Chrome)



With CommonKey, password management in business is real and easy to implement for large and small teams alike. As a cloud storage, CommonKay works great through browser extensions for Safari, Chrome and Firefox.

Separate folders for passwords of different purposes allow you to conveniently organize work in the company by dividing employees into groups. If necessary, you can always add a user to a particular group and then revoke access. It's as easy as sending an email invitation.

However, CommonKey can also be used as a personal password manager. Team members can themselves add "locks" to the database from their personal accounts, and give access to them through the same interface. But you can rest assured. Personal and work passwords will be separated, and important company data will not fall into the wrong hands.

The browser extension will immediately save passwords when you go online. When registering new accounts, the password generator will immediately be put into operation, so that new profiles will be reliably protected in the very first seconds. And you no longer have to come up with an "access code" yourself.

Alternative password applications

If you haven't found anything that works for you, check out a few more options.

KeePass
One of the first free open source managers. Fans of the program have worked hard to make KeePass compatible with almost all operating systems and devices. It is completely free, but it still has all the features of other password managers for personal use. Support: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux.

Cost: free.

Keeper
It boasts a two-factor authentication method. It recognizes the presence of your other devices nearby for personal identification, without using digital codes. Support: Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android.

Cost: $ 9/99 per year per device.

Roboform
First of all, RoboForm will change the start page of your browser to a window with quick access to sites where your protected passwords are located. Now, even to enter several resources, you only need one click of the mouse. Support: iOS, Mac, Windows, Android, Linux.

Cost: $ 19.95 / year, plus $ 29.95 for the desktop app.

Sticky password
This is a password manager from the team behind AVG's antivirus software. Together with the free version, you get a very advanced functionality, and in the paid version, in addition to the first, technical support. The manager allows syncing via wifi and also has a portable version. Support: iOS, Mac, Windows, Android.

Cost: free; $ 19.95 / year, or $ 99 one-time.

SplashID
This manager backs up your passwords. So you can view their history at any time. You can share passwords with your team members and, if necessary, roll back the changes if someone accidentally changed the password. Support: iOS, Chrome, Mac, Windows, Android.

Cost: Free for one device; $ 19.99 / year for the Pro version.

mSecure
You can use templates to enter any type of data and then save them to the program storage. Data can be synced via iCloud or Dropbox to access it from any device. There is also an interesting point. With multiple login attempts, the self-destruct function erases all your data so that it does not fall into the wrong hands. So don't forget your master password. Support: iOS, Mac, Windows, Android.

Cost: $ 9.99 for a mobile device; $ 19.99 PC version.

Master Password
Here, passwords are not stored in an encrypted "safe" and there is no synchronization between devices. The program offers a different algorithm of actions. It combines the username, resource url and master password to create a new password for a particular site. The mobile application and the program on your PC remain linked until you change your master password. Support: iOS, Mac, Windows, Android, Web.

Cost: free.

Rely on your password manager

When installing a new password manager for personal use or your company's needs, the most important thing is to rely on it and move away from old habits. As long as you prefer to use simple passwords, do not forget that all your virtual life and business activities are constantly at risk of hacking.

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