Password Overload? Management May Help

This post is inspired by the tech-savvy teachers/staff stifled by the use of too many passwords. Also, because I have overheard several teachers mention the simplicity of their passwords (I’m guilty of this too). I expect if I used the code-breaking skills I learned in the Army I could slow the work in the D.O. and on some of the school sites. Below are a few options to create more secure passwords and/or manage your passwords more efficiently. There are several options out there, these are just a few suggestions:

NOTE: This will take time upfront, but it will save you time (and frustration) in the long run.

First, decide which websites need a less secure password, vs. a more secure password. NOTE: Non-LVUSD email may need higher security or you run the risk of becoming a spammer.

For the less secure passwords you could use a text document that you store in Google Docs, Evernote, or Dropbox. This would allow you to easily update the document and access these items from your mobile devices.

For the more secure passwords you can:

1. Use your Keychain Access which comes standard on your Mac. This can store passwords and create more secure passwords. It is not transferable to mobile devices. Here is a brief written tutorial and here is a video tutorial.

2. Use Last Pass: “…works with both Internet Explorer and Firefox to sync your passwords between multiple computers.  All passwords are encrypted before they leave your computer so even LastPass can’t read them on their servers.  The tool helps generate strong passwords, allows you access from mobile phones, works with other password managers for import & export and more.”