Simplify Password Security With These Easy-to-Use Tools
Recently, we covered some of the most important parts of data security for small businesses who store information on the cloud (you can find those best practices here). Password security was at the top of the list, because it’s one of the most overlooked security issues that people face.
Luckily, there’s an easy way to minimize risk and create secure passwords… and you don’t even have to remember them on your own. Password managers “remember” credentials for you, and you can use them to easily create and store long, complex passwords that will ensure your vital business data stays secure. Here are three of our all-time favorite tools.
1Password
$7.99 per user, per month (billed annually)
Historically, 1Password only worked well on Mac and iOS devices. Windows and Android users may prefer a different tool, because some people still feel the interface is clunky. With that in mind, this password manager service is arguably better suited for businesses who rely on Apple devices. As an account administrator, you’ll have the ability to manage what users see and share, access reports that show how 1Password is being used by team members, and more.
Security is another highlight of 1Password. According to their website, “[It’s] the first and only password manager to use WebCrypto … [which] provides direct access to the system’s secure random number generator, making truly secure cryptography possible in the browser for the first time.”
Dashlane
$4.00 per user, per month (billed annually)
Business users love Dashlane for it’s easy-to-use interface and unique security options (including Dark Web monitoring). Users can quickly create complex, strong passwords with the Password Generator and Password Changer features.
Both the desktop and Web applications are intuitive and robust. You can change passwords on hundreds of sites at the same time, and it’s incredibly easy to share passwords with your team. Similar to the other password managers on this list, all of your data will also be end-to-end encrypted (which is something you should look for with any password tool you use, along with 2-factor authentication).
LastPass
$2.42 per user, per month (billed annually)
LastPass is at the top of many “best password managers” lists, and for good reason. This tool clearly wins on price, but it’s also easy to use on every major platform and has a wide range of features. Similar to 1Password and Dashlane, you can feel confident in the level of security that’s provided, easily manage team password sharing, and more.
If you don’t want to install software on your computer, you’ll love that LastPass is a wholly Web-based platform.
What’s the best password manager for your small business?
Each password manager we’ve shared is affordable, secure, and easy to use. All three services also offer a free trial period, so you can test the various interfaces to find the solution that feels most intuitive for you and your team. Regardless of the tool you choose, taking password security seriously is one of the most effective ways to protect your small business’s valuable information.
