How to create a strong password
- Move the slider to choose a length. 16 is a good default.
- Keep all four character types ticked unless a website does not allow symbols.
- Click Copy next to the password you like, or Generate new passwords for fresh ones.
- Save it straight into your password manager before you leave the page.
What makes a password strong
Attackers do not guess passwords one by one by hand. They use software that tries billions of combinations, starting with leaked passwords, dictionary words and common patterns like "Summer2024!". A strong password avoids all of that. It is long, completely random and used on only one site.
| Password | Why it is weak or strong |
|---|---|
password123 | One of the most leaked passwords in the world |
Fluffy2015! | Pet name plus year plus symbol is a very common pattern |
P@ssw0rd | Swapping letters for symbols fools nobody |
t7#Kq9!vRm2@Lx4e | Random, 16 characters, all types: strong |
Good password habits
- Never reuse a password. When one site gets hacked, criminals try the same email and password everywhere else.
- Turn on two factor authentication for email, banking and social media. It protects you even if a password leaks.
- Use a password manager so you only need to remember one strong master password.
- Check if you have been in a breach at haveibeenpwned.com and change any affected passwords.
Need a password you can type easily on a TV or game console? Tick "Avoid look-alikes" and make it a bit longer to keep the strength up.