KeePass
The first application that we will talk about is the open-source KeePass password manager. If you aren’t familiar with what open-source is, open source software is where you have the ability to adjust the software for your own use, which is free for all to make use of. You don’t have to be tech savvy to make use of KeePass or any other open-source software, but it gives those who are knowledgable the resource to make it how they want it to. More specifically with KeePass, the software allows you to easily add in logging information through shortcuts on your keyboard. Along with drag-and-drop features, KeePass allows you to also have passwords automatically apply to forms. Available for most platforms, KeePass could be the password manager with the most flexibility that you are looking for.
LastPass
I love LastPass and have made use of it from time-to-time. The reason why I have taken a liking to LastPass is because it offers a wide range of features and functionality along with a free price tag. For those who are looking for additional functionality coupled with the willingness to pay a bit more will have the ability to do that as well. LastPass, available on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and other mobile platforms, makes it easy to ensure that you can easily fill forms and sign-in no matter what device or service you are on or using. I first came in contact with LastPass when looking for a service that allowed me to create a one-time online password on a service that was shared. LastPass made this seamless and easy to do. Let’s just say you can’t resist the option and want to plunge into premium LastPass, no problem. The $1 a month premium version allows you to do more, like no ads, priority support, and even thumb-drive authentication.
1Password
1Password is one of the best password managers on this list, however this is also coupled with the fact that it is the most expensive. If you are serious about password management, 1Password is the only password manager you’ll need. The $50 program is $10 for mobile users, $15 for iPad users. The software allows you to ensure that your passwords are synced across the connected devices, organized in a way that makes it easy to find and easier to automatically apply to the website that you are using. However, 1Password isn’t just about protecting your online life, the software also allows you to ensure that the things you are making digital (documents and scans) are all protected from prying eyes. Again, I must reiterate that it’s great but expensive. If you are willing to put in the money, then do it. But it’s important to add that the benefits don’t pay off when compared to the $1 a month LastPass, for example, until about four years (when the monthly $1 fee begins to exceed the $50 one-time fee).
SplashID
If you haven’t caught on yet, you may need to be reminded that SplashID, like a majority of the others on the list, is cross-platform supported on Windows, iOS, Mac, etc. The password manager has all of the features we expect from a password manager, like automatic password generation, security protection, and more. You also have features like form completions. SplashID is a tried and tested password manager, possibly the oldest on this list (LastPass has the award for the youngest). Plus, along with a paid $20 version (after your trial period), and an iPhone version for $10, you also have a free iOS version available as well. This could be attractive to many users who are looking to find the balance of quality and affordability in one program.
Roboform
The last program we will go over is Roboform. This program is an ode to our Windows readers out there. This program is available only on Windows. For this reason, the program hasn’t received many visual or performance updates lately. However, this doesn’t mean that the program is lacking, it’s actually the contrary. Roboform is a program that users will find themselves getting acquainted with the software in no time. Despite being focused mainly for the web, Roboform does a nice job at form completion as well as password generation. Plus, Roboform allows you to easily make a printed form of your passwords that can be held for safe keeping. Roboform is available for free, however there’s a $29.95 pro version available as well. Featured photo credit: NeONBRAND via unsplash.com
