Keeping your online accounts secure starts with strong password management. But with so much advice out there, it can be tricky to know what’s best. Should you change your password every 30 days? What’s the best way to keep hackers out? Let’s break it down with guidance from experts like NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) and Microsoft.
This blog builds on the concepts discussed in our earlier post, NIST Password Guidelines 2024: A Game-Changer forCybersecurity. If you haven’t read it yet, we recommend starting there for a deeper dive into the evolution of password standards.
Do You Need to Change Your Password Often?
For years, people believed frequent password changes—every 60 or 90 days—were essential. However, experts now say this may do more harm than good.
The Problem with Frequent Changes
- Recycled Passwords: Many people reuse old passwords and tweak them slightly (e.g., adding a number at the end). Hackers are familiar with these patterns and can easily guess your updated password.
- Weaker Passwords: Constant changes can lead to frustration, causing people to create simpler, less secure passwords.
Instead, NIST recommends changing your password only when there’s evidence of a breach or once a year. Longer lifespans encourage stronger, more thoughtful passwords. Learn more from the NIST Password Guidelines.
What Makes a Good Password Policy?
Both NIST and Microsoft agree that focusing on strong, unique passwords is far more effective than frequent resets. Here are their top recommendations:
1. Encourage Long, Complex Passwords
- Use a password that is at least 12–14 characters long.
- Combine letters (uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and symbols, but avoid predictable patterns like “Password123!”.
- Better yet, use passphrases, like “BlueCatsJump!OverMoons”.
2. Check for Compromised Passwords
Employ tools to detect if a password has already been leaked in a data breach. Both NIST and Microsoft stress the importance of avoiding previously exposed passwords.
3. Eliminate Arbitrary Complexity Rules
Forcing users to include specific symbols or frequently change their password doesn’t add much security. Instead, let users focus on creating something long and memorable.
4. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
A strong password is good; combining it with MFA (like a phone verification code) is even better. This makes it nearly impossible for hackers to access your account, even if they guess your password.
For more guidance, check out Microsoft’s Password Policy Recommendations.
When Should You Change Passwords?
According to NIST:
- Change your password immediately if there’s evidence of a compromise (e.g., a hacked account or a leaked database).
- Consider annual changes as a precaution if no breaches occur.
Microsoft agrees and goes further to say that forcing routine password resets is outdated. Instead, businesses should rely on real-time risk detection and other security measures, like MFA.
Is Passwordless the Future?
As strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA) improve account security, there’s an even better solution gaining traction: going passwordless.
Why Passwordless is Better
- No More Password Fatigue: Users don’t need to remember complex passwords or worry about frequent changes.
- Enhanced Security: Passwordless systems often use biometrics, secure tokens, or cryptographic keys, which are much harder to compromise than traditional passwords.
- Ease of Use: Logging in with a fingerprint, face scan, or secure app is faster and more convenient than typing a password.
Microsoft’s Passwordless Solutions
Microsoft is a leader in this space, offering tools like:
- Windows Hello: Use facial recognition, fingerprints, or a PIN to log in securely. While facial recognition and fingerprint authentication are strong and convenient, I’m personally not a fan of relying solely on a PIN. A PIN can be weak protection, especially if users choose something simple like “1234” or reuse a PIN across devices. If you do use a PIN, make sure it’s unique and paired with additional safeguards, like biometric authentication.
- Microsoft Authenticator App: Approve logins with a single tap on your smartphone.
- FIDO2 Security Keys: Hardware keys that let you sign in without a password.
- Azure Active Directory Passwordless Authentication: A solution for businesses to enable secure, passwordless access for employees.
These methods don’t just improve security—they also reduce costs for businesses by minimizing password resets and IT support calls.
Takeaway: Passwordless is the Future
While strong passwords and multi-factor authentication are still vital today, the best solution is moving beyond passwords altogether. Passwordless authentication offers unmatched security and convenience, making it a win-win for both individuals and businesses.
So, whether you’re an individual tired of juggling passwords or a business aiming to improve security, consider the leap to passwordless. Microsoft and other industry leaders are paving the way—don’t get left behind.
Stay secure and look forward to a world without passwords!