Mykel's Blog

I just gave up on an exhausting search for a lost password for the Flickr.com account I established this time last year.  That exercise in futility sent me on a second quest looking for some secure method to store the plethora of passwords I have to remember on a consistent basis.  

We've all know the rules for a strong, safe password is that it be different for every destination. The passwords should not be easily deciphered.  They should consist of numbers, letters, and in some cases symbols.  They should be easily recalled so that they do not have to be written down and discovered.

In today technology driven environment, my Google search provided limitless choices.

NeedMyPassword.com, RoboForm.com, my Blackberry Password Keeper . . .

After hours of researching the pros and cons, I have come to his conclusion.

Storing passwords in a file on your computer or in your cell phone is risky.  What happens if that computer or phone is stolen or sent in for repair?  All your confidential information is compromised.  Not to mention an accidental file corruption would destroy your ability to access your passwords.  And heaven forbid, I forget the password to the online site that manages my passwords :-)

Instead of using outside solutions, I've decided on utilizing a tool that will always be with me and is very powerful when used correctly . . . my brain!  I'd like to share a plan my 16 year old daughter just shared with me:

Start by creating a system that you can easily remember.  Select a 4-6 letter word that you can remember.  Let's say that word is login. Now select a number that has meaning.  Let's say it is 20. Choose to capitalize one or more letters in the word login.  Your might choose to capitalize the 3rd letter and let it become loGin.  Now add this to your favorite number.  Your unique personal password now becomes loGin20.  You can now use this password as your own personal password anywhere a password is needed and it should meet most every requirement you come across.

But how do you address the fact that you need a unique password for every site?  Let's say you need to create a password for the ActiveRain.com.  One method would be to add 'ar' (for Active Rain) to the beginning or end of your personal password which would cause it to become arloGin20 or loGin20ar.  

There are endless variations on this method; the specific system you use is not really important. . . as long as you're consistent.  What is important is that you have a FREE system that is easily remembered without relying on outside aids.  You will only need to remember your personal password and then simply begin or end it with whatever specific site you are using it with. 

Why couldn't I think of that!  Gotta go and simplify my life by re-creating a ton of passwords.  If you have any other time saving tricks, please don't hesitate to share them.