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From work and school to games and streaming entertainment services, access relies on passwords. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency suggests you consider using a reliable tool to manage these key bits of information — password managers.

Memorizing complex passwords for multiple accounts is difficult, or impossible. So, sometimes passwords are too simple and easily hacked. Password managers, though, can help.

THE BASICS

A password manager is a software tool that organizes all your passwords. Then, a single master code unlocks this vault — encouraging use of long, complex passwords.

FREE BUILT-IN MANAGERS

Web browsers, including Safari, Chrome and Edge, have built-in password managers, and these can be accessed across devices like computers and phones. These may suffice for those with only basic needs, but they are limited. For instance, passwords in Apple’s Safari aren’t accessible on an Android phone running Google Chrome.

PAID TOOLS

For more robust options, there is software like LastPass, 1PassWord and Bitwarden. These work across multiple types of devices and have additional features, such as the ability to generate passwords and integration into your favorite web browser.

TWO KEYS FOR SUCCESS

Make your master password long, reliable and unique. Sixteen characters is recommended. Also, regularly review your stored passwords to remove passwords for accounts you no longer use.