Why define a “strong” password (length, character types, dictionary words, etc.)?

There are few things that constitute a strong password in order to maximize security and reduce chances of getting guessed, cracking and exploitation. To explain why each of these factors is important, let us dissect them:

1. Length

• Why it matters: The length of passwords increases exponentially the number of possible combinations.

• Example:
  • 6-character password (letters only) – 26⁶ ≈ 308 million combinations.

  • 12-character password – 26¹² ≈ 9.5 × 10¹⁶ combinations.

• Impact: Longer passwords are much harder to brute-force.

  
  

2.Character Variety

• Types: Uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, symbols.

• Why it matters: The more character types the higher the entropy (randomness) of the password.

• Example:
  • “password123” – only lowercase + numbers –  easily guessable.

  • “P@55w0rD!9” –  includes uppercase, symbols, numbers –  much harder to crack.

3.Avoiding Dictionary Words / Common Phrases

• Why it matters: Dictionary attacks are used by hackers and they attempt to use common words, phrases, and known passwords.
• Example:
  • “football” or “iloveyou” – easily guessed.

  • Random combination – “G7#xT!9qLz” – resistant to dictionary attacks.

4. Unpredictability / Randomness

• Why it matters: Predictable patterns (like “12345” or “qwerty”) are extremely vulnerable.

• Tip: Include unrelated words, numbers and symbols, or a password generator will come with a completely random password.

5.Not Reusing Passwords

• Why it matters: The use of the same password across locations enhances vulnerability in case one location has been affected.

• Tip: Each account should have a unique password.

Note:
The good password will be lengthy, varied, random, and one-of-a-kind. This combination will prevent your accounts against unauthorized access by making it resistant to brute-force attacks, dictionary attacks, and guessing.