Passwords
Overview
A password is a secret word or string of characters that is used for user authentication to prove identity or gain access to a resource. The password should be kept secret from those not allowed access. The use of passwords is known to be ancient. Sentries would challenge those wishing to enter an area to supply a password or watchword, and would only allow a person or group to pass if they knew the password.
History of Passwords
The use of passwords has been traced back to ancient times. Romans are known to have used passwords as a way to identify those attempting to cross checkpoints. These passwords, known as "watchwords", were changed daily. In modern times, user authentication has become automated and is commonly used in computer systems and digital resources.
Types of Passwords
There are several types of passwords, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some common types include:
- Alphanumeric Passwords: These are passwords that consist of both letters and numbers. They are commonly used due to their simplicity and ease of use.
- Complex Passwords: These passwords consist of a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. They are considered more secure than alphanumeric passwords due to their complexity.
- Passphrases: These are passwords that consist of a sequence of words or other text. They are easier to remember and often more secure than complex passwords.
- Biometric Passwords: These passwords use unique biological characteristics, such as fingerprints or iris patterns, to authenticate a user. They are considered highly secure but can be difficult to implement.
Password Security
Password security is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting guessing and brute-force attacks. The strength of a password is a function of length, complexity, and unpredictability. In its usual form, it estimates how many trials an attacker who does not have direct access to the password would need, on average, to guess it correctly.
Password Management
Password management is a set of principles and best practices to be followed by users while storing and managing passwords in a secure manner. Password managers, systems that help users remember and input passwords, are widely used.
Password Cracking
Password cracking is the process of recovering passwords from data that have been stored in or transmitted by a computer system. A common approach is to repeatedly try guesses for the password.
See Also
