How often do you use online services? Do you check your bank balance, pay bills, catch up on your favorite TV show, surf Facebook or Twitter, or order that last-minute birthday gift? If you do, then it’s likely you need a username and password for every website and account you’re using.

For most people, the total number of passwords you use may be surprising. If you multiply the number of sites you log into by the number of computers, tablets and mobile devices that you use to get to those sites, then multiply that by the number of digital devices that your household uses. That’s a lot of passwords to remember.

Therein lies the difficulty. How do you create a unique password for every website you log into, and then how do you remember what the password was? A password like "123456" or "monkey" is easy to remember, but it's also easy for hackers to crack.

That’s why Information Technology experts recommend using a simple tool called a “password manager”, “password safe” or a “password vault.” With the help of a password manager, you can have a unique and strong password for every secure website.

How does a password manager work?

Password managers can integrate with your browser to capture your username and password for websites you log into.  The best ones will capture your information and offer to update it if you change your credentials.

Once your credentials are all in a single repository, you can set additional protection with strong passwords, or two-factor authentication that will text a code to your smartphone and allow access only from your registered devices.

How do I know which password manager is right for me?

There are many different password managers available. Look for features that fit your personal needs. Do you need just the basics or something more advanced? Do you need to sync your credentials across multiple devices?

When it comes to budget, password managers come in a wide range of prices, with some free versions. The nice thing about free versions is that you can try them out, and then buy an upgraded version if you decide you need more.

Below is a list of websites that rate and compare password managers. A little online searching can help you find other options, as well.

• The Best Free Password Managers of 2016 as rated by PC Mag
• The Best Password Managers of 2016 rated by PC Mag
• Take control of password chaos with these six password managers—CNET.com
• You Need a Password Manager. Here Are Some Good Free Ones --- Wired.com 

Stay safe and secure

With these tools at your fingertips, you are assured that you’re doing everything you can to keep your data and accounts safe. Remember, you are the number one way to protect your online security.