Password manager in comparison
In this practical tip, we present a comparison of the most popular password managers.
1. Password manager KeePass
KeePass is an extensively equipped and at the same time free password manager.
- With KeePass you not only save and manage your passwords, but also protect them from unauthorized access. In addition to a master password, a key file can also be generated for authentication in the program, which you can save, for example, on a USB stick.
- KeePass relies on "Rijndael 256-bit" encryption, which is considered extremely secure and cannot be easily cracked.
- KeePass is available for numerous other systems, including Android, iOS, BlackBerry and Linux. However, these are unofficial ports that are not from the developers of the tool itself. In addition to the standard version, a free KeePass version with numerous additional professional features is also available for free download.
2. Password manager LastPass
In contrast to KeePass, the password manager LastPass is available as a browser add-on for Chrome, Firefox and Internet Explorer.
- LastPass stores your passwords encrypted. The passwords for individual websites can be saved for one-click registration.
- LastPass can be used to set up several profiles that can be used, among other things, to fill out web forms.
- In contrast to KeePass, LastPass has a premium version that is subject to a fee. For around a dollar a month, you can access the LastPass apps, remove all advertisements, and set up multi-factor authentication.
3. Password manager 1Password
The password manager 1Password stores your passwords securely in a virtual safe.
- 1Password comes with an automatic password generation, automatic login to various websites and an encryption function for files.
- In 1Password you can choose between five different cryptographic encryption routines.
- The data can be exported as CSV, XML, HTML or as text and synchronized via Dropbox. 1Password can be tried out for 30 days and then costs around ten euros.
4. Password Manager Password Safe
The free password manager Password Safe has been kept a bit simpler.
- Also in "Password Safe" you create a new database with a master password. New entries can be added like index cards.
- The tool was developed by the US security expert Bruce Schneier and encrypts your stored passwords securely against unauthorized access.
- So far there are no apps for Android or iOS.
Conclusion:
If you are looking for a password manager, you should first look at KeePass. The open source tool has all the important functions and is also available free of charge. If you prefer it a little easier, use Password Safe. LastPass and 1Password are by no means bad, but offer little added value compared to KeePass.
All encryption of your passwords is of no use, however, if you do not choose a secure password for the password manager.