This Is Your Life 2.0

It’s a password-protected world. It is impossible to get through a modern day without entering one of dozens of passwords each of us has to carry around in our noggins. Doesn’t bother you because you use the same password for all sights/cards/situations? Bad idea!!

What exactly is a password manager?

Just like it says, a password manager will manage your passwords – for websites, network log-ins (like myUBC), PINs, whatever. It’s an encrypted database that stores the information behind a master password. Different versions work off your desktop, are portable or can be accessed online.

Consider staying away from the online versions. Think about it – you’re giving access to your life to whoever cracks the website’s security. As we’ve seen too many times, security can usually be breached, and a big repository of passwords seems like a pretty obvious target for hackers and privacy thieves.

KeePass Password Safe is an open source (free!) product that comes in desktop and portable versions. It’s simple to use, has won a ton of accolades and awards , and is extremely lightweight – that is, doesn’t take up space on your hard-drive. The portable version fits on a flash drive.

KeePass comes in two versions – 2.x has more features but requires Microsoft NET 2.0 installed on your computer. If you’re unsure, stick with version 1.x. A clear and simple tutorial can show you the ropes and get you started.

1. Consider your current password plan. Do you use the same password/PIN (or a version of it) for everything? Do you use personal information in your passwords? The answer to both these questions should be NO.
2. Go to the KeePass site.
3. Read the introduction and click on Features .
4. Scroll down and read the parts that catch your eye.
5. Scroll back up and click on the link to the Comparisons Page .
6. Check out the differences between the versions. Can’t make heads or tails of it? KeePass 1.x is the option for you.
7. Click Downloads on the left menu.
8. Choose a version and option (desktop or portable). If you’re not sure, try Portable KeePass “Classic” Edition for now.
9. Download the file to your hard-drive.
10. Extract the zip file (right click the folder and choose “Extract All”) to your hard-drive OR a flash drive.
11. Open KeePass.exe.
12. Go to the KeePass tutorial page http://keepass.info/help/base/firststeps.html and follow the instructions. Make sure your Master Password is solid!
13. Record your major passwords. Remember to save before you close the program!
14. Any password horror stories to share? Post them or any other thoughts on this topic in the comments below.

Strong Passwords: How to create and use them (Microsoft)

Strong Password Generator
(Note: KeyPass includes a password generator, too)

This lesson was created for the Digital Media Project, a joint project of UBC School of Library, Archival and Information Studies and the Irving K Barber Learning Centre.