Password managers: Overview

This article reviews what a Password Manager is and how to use one.

What is a password manager?

A service or feature that stores and autofills your credentials.

LITS highly recommends using a dedicated password manager service, rather than one built-in to a browser.

Why? How are they different? 

Common Features

  • Securely store usernames, passwords, and other information
  • Automatically store newly created accounts
  • Securely autofill credentials when logging in
  • Generate unique, complex, secure passwords

How do I use a password manager?

The following is a generalization and may not apply to all managers.
The following screenshots were taken from LastPass.

  • Passwords are stored in a centralized Vault
  • The Vault is accessed via desktop
    …or mobile
  • The Vault is unlocked with a master password
  • Logging into a new website prompts the manager to automatically store the credentials
  • Stored credentials will autofill when you login into that site

Popular options

LastPass

1Password

Dashlane

Bitwarden

See how they compare

Questions?

If you have any additional questions or problems, don't hesitate to reach out to the Help Desk!

Phone: 610-526-7440 | Library and Help Desk hours
Email: help@brynmawr.eduService catalog
Location: Canaday Library 1st floor