When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn 
What is a Password Generator?
A password generator is a software tool, usually an online service or app, that creates random or customized passwords. It helps users generate strong passwords that provide greater security for various types of access. Password generators use algorithms to produce a random sequence of characters of specified length, resulting in passwords that generally meet most security requirements.
Password generators typically offer customization. For example, users can choose the length of the generated password and select which elements it contains, such as uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Some generate passwords that are easier to say, read, or generate a passphrase to help individuals remember it. However, it is important to consider security implications when using a password generator. Keep in mind shorter passwords are easier to hack.
A related tool, called a password manager, allows users to manage their login credentials for multiple websites and apps with a single master password. Think of a password manager as a secure “password vault” to store and manage large numbers of passwords in one secure location. Many of the best password managers include a password generator tool.
Key Takeaways
- A password generator is a tool that creates random or customized passwords.
- There are tools for generating pronounceable and readable passwords.
- It uses algorithms to create passwords that meet the criteria you set.
- Many password generators use a pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) algorithm, which is not truly random.
- Password generators help those who have to constantly come up with new passwords.
- Show Full Guide
Why Should I Use a Password Generator?
One of the best defenses against cybersecurity threats, such as phishing and identity theft, is to use strong and unique passwords for each account and avoid reusing passwords. Unlike human-generated passwords, which often contain patterns and personal information, these tools produce complex and unpredictable passwords that are challenging to hack. Even using a password generator free online can improve security by making it difficult to guess or crack through brute force attacks.
Password generators are helpful for individuals who need to regularly create passwords to maintain secure access to programs or manage a large number of passwords for identity and access management.
How Password Generator Works
A password generator uses algorithms to create random, complex passwords based on specific criteria set by the user.
- The generator starts by creating a pool of characters according to the user’s settings.
- It then uses an algorithm to select characters from the pool, assembling the password according to the chosen parameters, such as length, a mix of letters and numbers, special characters, or any other criteria for generating a new password.
Most password generators rely on a pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) algorithm, which is not truly random. However, strong password generators, especially those combined with password managers, use cryptographically secure random number generators (CSPRNGs), which make the passwords more secure.
Many password generators also check the strength of the password against security libraries to ensure it meets strong security standards.
Types of Password Generators
There are different types of password generators. Some are purely random password generators that produce complex passwords with combinations of numbers, letters, and special characters – like asterisks and slashes.
Others create more recognizable passwords, rather than a completely random set of characters. For example, passphrases, pronounceable, or readable passwords.
6 Best Practices for Generating Secure Passwords
Generating a strong password is important to ensure that online accounts are secure. There are many components in a strong password strategy, with the most basic ones involving length and diversity.
For example:
- Minimum length of 14 characters is recommended (longer is better)
- Avoid words found in a dictionary
- Avoid names of a person, character, product, or organization
- Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols
- New passwords should be significantly different from previous passwords
- Never use the same password for multiple accounts
Password Generator Features
- Automatically create random and strong passwords.
- Customization lets users choose password length and elements.
- Free online generators are readily available (research service providers first).
- Generated passwords meet most security requirements.
- Combine with a password manager to store and manage multiple passwords.
- Stronger than most human-generated passwords.
When it comes to choosing a tool, it is important to know the differences between free vs. premium random password generators.
6 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Password Generator
- Use a tool that creates longer passwords with varied characters.
- Ensure the generator uses strong encryption methods.
- Evaluate free vs. premium options based on cost and features.
- Verify that generated passwords do not use recognizable patterns.
- Verify the provider has a good reputation and values the user’s security/privacy.
- If paired with a password manager, use a memorable master password.
Password Generator Pros and Cons
- Create complex passwords that meet specific requirements
- Easily accessible tools via the web or app
- Save time creating strong passwords
- Widely available across different computing platforms
- Generated passwords are more difficult to memorize
- Hard to distinguish between legitimate and malicious password generators
- Online tools are vulnerable
- Password generators do not store/save passwords
The Bottom Line
The password generator definition refers to a software tool that helps users create random or customized passwords. It uses algorithms to produce a random sequence of characters that generally meets most security requirements. Most offer some customization options, allowing users to select the password length, and include specific elements.
While especially useful for individuals who frequently create new passwords, generated passwords can be harder to remember. Free password generators are widely available online for a variety of platforms.
However, distinguishing legitimate tools from malicious ones can be challenging. Always research tools and service providers to determine what is the best password generator before using it.
