subject: Finding The Right Password Manager For Your Needs [print this page] It may seem that no matter where you go, on and offline, you need a code, password or some kind of account number to get to where you want to be. All those numbers and codes are not easy to remember, even if you have an excellent memory. Recording them in a notebook is tricky, as it can be stolen or lost, with all your personal information with it. Investing in a password manager can save you time and secure all your personal data easily.
All of your passwords, credit card numbers, registration codes, PIN number etc, can be stored and managed in one place now safely. These programs encrypt the data that you input so that it is safeguarded against others and you will be the only one able to access it with a master password.
You'll find that there are three basic types of these programs available. The desktop version, the portable version and the web based programs. All have their own advantages and disadvantages so looking carefully at each option will help you decide which would work best for you.
Having a desktop version, allows you to have everything offline, and requires no internet connection at all. After you input your data, it is stored onto the hard drive, where it can then backed up onto an external hard drive for more protection. Transferring the information from one computer to another is easy and you'll be able to customize it for your needs. The one disadvantage you could encounter is, if you have a hard drive crash, all your information will be lost if you haven't backed it up.
Using a web based version will require an internet connection and a web browser on your computer, but you won't need to install any software, which is a big plus for many. You'll have the advantage of being able to access your sensitive information from anywhere in the world as long as you have access to the internet. There is also less chance of lost data because of damage to hard drives or theft. Since it will be stored on a distant server though, you'll want to choose a trusted host site to store this information.
With many people on the go today, the portable method works best for them. This is also for those who don't really trust keeping their data online or fear their hard drive could be stolen. Portable software on your mobile or other device like USB sticks, gives you the advantage of always have it on you. Whenever you need it, it is right there at hand. The disadvantage can be that if you haven't backed that data up somewhere and your mobile or USB stick is stolen or lost, all your information is gone with it.
Safely and securely storing your sensitive information is a must today, it is who you are and you need to protect that. With so many technological advances each year, the more protected your personal information is, the more protected your identity and life can be. Safeguard yourself from future disasters with a password manager and sleep easily at night knowing only you have access to that data.
