 - 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.
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Getting started with passwords |
| To explore how passwords are used in the enterprise, here is an additional resource: |
| Windows password security: System tools and policy: Creating secure passwords should be an essential component of every organization's security structure. Learn how to create strong Windows passwords and how to use Windows tools and policies to enhance security. |
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Learn more about Password Management and Policy |
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Identity and Access Management Services, Systems and Technologies: This Security School explores critical topics related to helping security practitioners establish and maintain an effective identity and access management plan. |
| Smart shopper: What to look for in password management and provisioning: Password management vendors are getting into the full-blown provisioning game, and traditional vendors are adding Windows logon extensions to facilitate self-service-a hallmark of a password ... |
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Using IAM, password and provisioning management tools for compliance: In this new lesson, expert Tom Bowers will teach you how provisioning and password management can reduce help desk calls, ease compliance woes and save corporate cash. |
| Endpoint security protection: Policies for endpoint control: Guest instructor Ben Rothke, provides tactics for endpoint security, policies for controlling endpoints and insight as to where endpoint security technology is headed. |
| How to break into a computer that is right at your fingertips: Stressing the importance of physical security, Joel Dubin explains how a hacker can bypass a BIOS password and break into a computer. |
| Spy vs. Spy: Excerpt from Chapter 6 of Spies Among Us: How to Stop the Spies, Terrorists, Hackers, and Criminals You Don't Even Know You Encounter Every Day. |
| LAST UPDATED: |
09 Dec 2008
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