What To Look for in a Password Manager

Updated on April 17, 2024.

Many password managers come with basic features like a built-in password generator. However, not all password managers are the same. When researching different password managers, there are other features that you should look for such as strong encryption, passkey support and 2FA code storage.

Keep reading to learn the top eight features you should look out for when choosing a password manager, plus tips on how to set up your password manager to get the most out of it. 

1. Strong encryption

Strong encryption is the most important feature to look for in a password manager. This feature ensures that the data you store in your password manager is not at risk of being compromised. The password manager you choose should protect your information with AES-256-bit encryption and Elliptic-Curve Cryptography (ECC), the most robust encryption in the cybersecurity industry. Additionally, your password manager provider should be both zero trust and zero knowledge to ensure that only you can decrypt your stored data locally on your device. 

2. Passkey support

Apart from storing your passwords, the password manager you choose should also offer passkey support. Passkeys are a newer authentication technology that allows you to log in to your accounts without having to enter a password. As more websites and apps begin to support the use of passkeys, they’re becoming a more popular sign-in method. With passkey support, you can generate and store your passkeys directly in your password vault. This enables you to log in to your passkey-enabled accounts from anywhere and on any device seamlessly. 

3. 2FA code storage

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) helps protect your online accounts from becoming compromised by requiring that you provide an additional verification method apart from your username and password. While 2FA is important, many people choose not to enable it because they find it difficult or inconvenient. By investing in a password manager that offers 2FA code storage, you can seamlessly verify your identity without having to juggle multiple applications. Entering 2FA codes will no longer serve as an inconvenience because the password manager can autofill your 2FA code along with your username and password.   

4. Autofill capabilities

The best password managers automatically fill in your credentials into sites and apps that match the records in your vault. While this feature is very convenient, it also provides security by helping to protect you against keyloggers. Keyloggers are a type of malware that can track your keystrokes when installed on your device. With autofill capabilities, you won’t have to worry about having to manually type sensitive data that could potentially be exposed by this type of malware. 

The password manager you choose should be able to autofill your usernames and passwords along with other sensitive information like your credit card details. 

5. Cross-compatibility with your browsers and devices

An ideal password manager works on all platforms, including mobile devices, tablets and PCs. Any password management solution you’re considering has to be compatible with all the different types of operating systems you use. For example, if you use both Mac and Windows, the password manager you use should have apps available for both. Additionally, the password manager should have a browser extension available to download for the browsers you frequently use, such as Chrome and Safari. 

6. Secure password and file sharing

The password manager you choose to use shouldn’t just securely store your passwords, it should also allow you to securely share them. Common password-sharing methods, like sharing your passwords through text, can place your accounts at risk of being compromised. By investing in a password manager that has secure password and file-sharing capabilities, you won’t have to worry about your sensitive data being compromised due to insecure sharing methods. By sharing your passwords with a password manager, you’ll have complete control over who has access to your credentials and be able to revoke access whenever you want. 

7. Password generator

Weak passwords defeat the purpose of a password manager. A good password manager should have a password generator that enables you to choose the length and complexity of your password. Since many websites often have strict policies when creating passwords, your password manager should allow you to customize the passwords it generates so they follow the website’s guidelines, but are also strong and unique. For example, you should be able to choose your generated password’s length and be able to specify character combinations like the use of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. 

8. Multi-factor authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a layered approach to security that requires you to provide multiple methods of verification apart from a username and password. Your password manager should provide you with the option to enable MFA for your password manager vault. This provides an additional layer of security that helps you further secure your password vault from unauthorized access in addition to the protection provided by your master password. 

How to set up a password manager

To get the most out of your password manager and stay secure, you need to properly set it up. Here are five steps that are standard when setting up a password manager. 

1. Download the software

Start by downloading the latest version of your password manager software on all the devices you intend to use it on. Many password managers offer mobile apps and a browser extension for desktop.

2. Create your master password

Next, you need to create a master password which will act as the key to enter your password manager vault. This is your most important password so it must be strong, but also easy for you to remember. We recommend creating a passphrase to use as your master password. Using a passphrase generator can help you come up with a passphrase that is both easy for you to remember and strong. 

3. Enable MFA

In addition to securing your password manager vault with a strong master password, you’ll also want to enable MFA. If you’re not prompted to enable MFA while setting up your password manager, go to your account’s settings. Under your account’s security settings, you should find an option to enable multi-factor authentication or two-factor authentication. Make sure to enable this option. If there are multiple methods of authentication to choose from, we recommend using an authenticator app or hardware security key, as these are the most secure options. 

4. Export and import your passwords

If you were storing your passwords on anything other than a dedicated password manager like your browser, you’d need to export them. Depending on where you were previously storing your passwords the process of exporting them will vary. 

Once you have exported your passwords, import them into your password manager. Your password manager should walk you through the import process. If not, there should be documentation on how to import your passwords, but this will vary depending on the password manager you choose.

5. Audit and change your passwords

Once all your passwords have been imported into your password manager, audit them. Determine which passwords are weak and reused then change them with the help of your password manager to ones that are strong and unique. A good password manager will let you know which passwords are at a higher risk of being compromised so you can change them immediately. 

Choose Keeper® as your password manager

Keeper Password Manager has all of the above features and more. Not only does Keeper offer the best security, but it also offers a seamless user experience and makes your digital life easier. Keeper also makes importing your passwords easy. You can seamlessly import from browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, Internet Explorer and Opera. You can also import from several different password managers.

Ready to get started with the best password manager around? Start a free 30-day trial of Keeper today.