You Need Better p@s5W0rD$!

Atek, Inc.

The Logio Secure Password Organizer is one way to keep track of user names and passwords.

The sometimes confusing (and forgetful) way we deal with passwords is the subject of today's All Tech Considered segment. Most people have to keep track of five to seven sets of names and passwords for Web sites and other computer activity, but if you spend a lot of online time like we do, it's more like 20 or 30.

Experts say a good password is at least eight characters (14 or 15 is much better) and consists of a combination of letters (lower and upper-case), symbols and numbers.

Here are a few tools and tips for dealing with passwords:

• The Logio Secure Password Organizer (pictured above) is one relatively low-tech way to keep track of passwords. It stores up to 200 sets of logins and passwords and requires you to only remember one numeric master passcode. It requires no computer.
  
• Among the applications that can help you store and use passwords are (for Windows) Password Manager, eWallet, RoboForm, (for Mac) 1Password and the open-source KeePass. Some of these programs allow you to export your information to an iPhone, BlackBerry or PDA to use on the go. Some can also be configured to only work when a secure thumb drive is plugged or can export passwords to such a drive you can take with you to use on other computers.
  
• Speaking of iPhones VeriSign has an app called VIP Access that adds even more security to your passwords.
  
• I'm a Eugene Mirman fan and this comedy bit about a security question makes me laugh.
  
• Some basic tips on choosing/creating your passwords.
  
• The Wall Street Journal weighs in on passwords; they also started a very good forum discussion about the topic.
  
• If you use multiple computers, an online password storage service like Passpack might fit you better.
  
• Is your password among the 10 Most Common ones? That would be very bad. Please change it.

How do you remember your passwords? Got a mnemonic system? Share them with us in the comments.