Internet

This will prevent you from making the most common mistake with passwords

Undoubtedly, the password is one of the main security barriers that will prevent intruders from entering our accounts. We use them for everything: enter social networks, access Windows and other systems, email, online forums… However, there are many occasions when we make mistakes. And one of the most typical failures is use the same password for everything or, at least, for several online services. But we can use something that will help us avoid problems.

Set up a password history

why is it dangerous reuse the same password? Think of the fact that you are using the same password for Facebook, email and an Internet forum where you registered to ask about a product. That forum has been leaked and all passwords have been leaked. What happen? A domino effect will occur and an attacker will be able to try that same key to see if he can get into your Facebook and email account. By using it, he will be able to do it.

To avoid this, the best advice is always use different passwords. But also, you should not use one that you already used on another previous occasion. That key could have been leaked without you knowing. That is where what is known as password history comes into play and for many it is the best solution to avoid problems of this type.

What does it consist of set up a password history? Some services and systems will allow you to configure them so that they do not allow us to enter a password that we previously entered. If, for example, you use Windows, you can configure it so that it asks you to change the password from time to time, but it will not let you put any of the ones you have already put in previously. For example you cannot put any of the previous 10 or increase that number.

This will prevent us from reusing the same password or from re-using one that we previously entered and could have been leaked. The objective is to ensure that an account or system is as protected as possible and prevent an intruder from gaining access without our permission.

How to set it up on Windows

We are going to explain how you can use this in Windows. Keep in mind that this option is not available for all types of online services or systems, but it is something that is becoming more and more present and we will surely see it more over time. At the moment, in the Microsoft system we can easily configure it. This is known as a Windows password policy setting.

To do this, go to Start and access the Group Policy Editor. Once there you have to access the path Computer Configuration, Windows Configuration, Security Configuration, Account Policy and password policy.

Configure password policy in Windows

When you are there you have to click on Require password history. That is what will prevent you from putting a key that you have previously used in the system. You can put the number you want, such as 10, 20, etc. Also, you have to enable the Password must meet complexity requirements option.

In short, by following these steps you can set up a password history and thus better protect your account. You will make it more difficult for a possible intruder to find out the access code.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *