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A password is an unspaced sequence of characters used to determine that a computer user requesting access to a computer system is really that particular user. Typically, users of a multiuser or securely protected single-user system claim a unique name (often called a user ID) that can be generally known. In order to verify that someone entering that user ID really is that person, a second identification, the password, known only to that person and to the system itself, is entered by the user. A password is typically somewhere between four and 16 characters, depending on how the computer system is set up. When a password is entered, the computer system is careful not to display the characters on the display screen, in case others might see it. Good criteria when choosing a password or setting up password guidelines include the following: - Don't pick a password that someone can easily guess if they know who you are (for example, not your Social Security number, birthday, or maiden name)
- Don't pick a word that can be found in the dictionary (since there are programs that can rapidly try every word in the dictionary!)
- Don't pick a word that is currently newsworthy
- Don't pick a password that is similar to your previous password
- Do pick a mixture of letters and at least one number
- Do pick a word that you can easily remember
Many networks require that you change your password on some periodic basis.
Last updated on: Jun 04, 2007
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