Passwords play a key role in present day security, and probably always will. Recently, I became aware of two tools that can help you create and use strong passwords.

Perfect Passwords

The first to come to my attention was Perfect Passwords, an on-line tool created by long time computer hardware wizard, Steve Gibson. Steve's Perfect Passwords tool is a secure Web page, which runs over SSL, the same facility that keeps your credit card number secure when you order from Amazon. The page, at https://www.grc.com/passwords.htm,, returns a completely random set of long keys, suitable for use with a variety of wireless access points.

Although intended primarily to help you secure your wireless network, you can adapt the keys for many other uses.

Microsoft Password Checker

Another nifty new tool is the Microsoft Password Checker, at https://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/privacy/password_checker.mspx. Like Steve Gibson's Perfect Passwords page, this one runs over SSL. Since the password checker uses a JavaScript function to do the checking, your password never leaves the confines of your own machine. Running the page under SSL makes it easy to prevent the contents, including the password, from being cached on your local hard disk.

Caution: Be aware that the password strength information is for personal reference only. Password Checker does not guarantee the security of the password itself. Remember, too, that the strongest password in the world is worthless if you keep a copy of it in a place where it can easily fall into the wrong hands.