I'm setting up a dual-boot system on my Linux machine, and I'm torn between creating a super secure password or one that's easy to remember for typing into sudo commands. I want something that I can memorize but still provides good security. What do you suggest? Also, what's the ideal length for a password? Should I include numbers? What do you all usually use – an easy-to-type password or a complex one that's a pain to enter?
5 Answers
Why not have the best of both worlds? Create a password that’s complex enough to deter attacks but also memorable. For example, something like 'rAg1ngP3@(0ck' is both secure and relatively easy to type once you get used to it.
I’d struggle with that! For me, a simpler approach like three random words with some numbers works better.
You should aim for a password with plenty of entropy, which can still be easy to remember. Check out this xkcd comic that shows how you can create memorable yet strong passwords. The key is making it unique but not overly complicated for daily typing!
Thanks for sharing the comic! I have a password manager but I don’t want to be constantly opening it or having my password ready on the clipboard just to log in.
For local passwords, they don’t need to be as secure as online ones since someone would have to physically access your computer to even use it. If it's a laptop you rarely take out, you might prioritize memorability over complexity, but still go for something decent.
Yeah, I hardly take my laptop out since it’s not great on battery life anyway. Just want to ensure I’m safe!
And if you're not encrypted, the password's length doesn't really matter—anyone with access can get into your data regardless.
I use a simple dictionary word for my local machine because it's memorable, but for anything more sensitive, like my encrypted disk, I go with a stronger password. Remember that if someone can access your machine physically, it’s a different ball game.
Exactly! Physical access means they can potentially bypass everything.
It really depends on your use case. Who else might get physical access to your computer? And is your drive encrypted? If no one else can access it, a simpler password might be just fine.
Well, nobody else can access my laptop, and it’s not encrypted.
That sounds complicated but could totally work for some people!