When connecting a computer to a network, you are taking a risk in having an unauthorized user connect to your computer and access your files. One of the basic security measure you can use to prevent a user from logging into your computer is to use a strong password. Following are some tips for creating a strong password:
- Use at least seven characters
- Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols (!@#$%^&*)
- Do not use a default password such as root, admin or dba
- Do not use common or simple words such as password, 09876 or 1234567
- Do not use name of a person or place that people might associate with you such as JohnJr or Disneyland
- Do not use the date of birth, place of birth, social security number or driver license number
- Do not write done the password anywhere that is accessible by others
- Save your password in a password protected file or in an encrypted form
- When updating your password, use a new password that is significantly different from the old password
Microsoft suggests 6 steps to build a strong password.
