Accounts, passwords and backups
What is a password manager?
A beginner-friendly explanation of what a password manager does and what to think about before using one.
What you will learn
You'll understand what a password manager does and what to prepare before relying on one.
Before you continue
Do not move important accounts into a password manager until you understand its recovery options.
Stop and get help if you are unsure about the main password, recovery method or moving important accounts.
The short version
A password manager is an app or service that stores your passwords in a protected vault. It can also create long, unique passwords so you do not have to remember a different password for every account.
You still need to protect the password manager itself.
Why people use one
Reusing the same password is risky. If one account is exposed, the same password may be tried elsewhere.
A password manager helps because each account can have its own password.
What you still need to remember
Most password managers use one main password or passphrase. This needs to be strong, unique and memorable to you.
Many people also turn on two-factor authentication for the password manager account.
Recovery matters
Before moving important accounts into a password manager, understand what happens if you forget the main password, lose a phone or change devices.
Keep recovery information somewhere safe and separate from the device you use every day.
Start slowly
You do not have to move every account in one afternoon. Start with a few less stressful accounts, learn how the manager works and then move important accounts carefully.
What to expect
You can decide whether a password manager may help and what recovery questions to ask first.
Sources and further reading
- Small business cyber security guide · Australian Signals Directorate
Supports password-manager use for unique passwords and strong account protection.