What is a password manager—and why it beats sticky notes
A password manager stores unique, strong passwords for every site, locked behind one master password (and often 2FA). You stop reusing credentials that fall out of breaches.
How it works
Passwords encrypt locally or in zero-knowledge cloud vaults. Browser extensions fill login fields only on matching domains.
Common fears
“All eggs in one basket”—true, which is why the master password must be strong and the vault protected with 2FA. Still safer than reuse across dozens of sites.
Choosing a product
Look for audited security, breach history transparency, and features you need (family sharing, travel mode). Avoid obscure free extensions.
Migration tips
Start with email, banking, and social. Generate new passwords gradually. Save 2FA recovery codes in the vault notes securely.
Not a silver bullet
Malware on your device, master password theft, or approving phishing on mobile copy/paste flows still hurt. Combine with device hygiene.
Need help rolling out password hygiene?
RelyShield can set up managers and 2FA across your key accounts.
Frequently asked questions
- Are browser built-in managers OK?
- Better than reuse; dedicated managers often offer stronger sharing and auditing.
- What if I forget the master password?
- Reputable products cannot reset it—by design. Store a paper backup in a safe place.
- Cloud vs local-only?
- Cloud sync is convenient; choose zero-knowledge vendors if you accept online vaults.
- Can teams use them?
- Yes—enterprise editions add shared vaults and offboarding controls.