The Password Problem Every Business Has
Average small business: 87 online accounts. Average unique passwords: 3. That means criminals need just 3 keys for your entire digital kingdom.
Why Your Current Password System Fails
- Sticky Notes: Physical security nightmare
- Excel Spreadsheet: One file = all passwords
- Browser Saving: No encryption, easy access
- Same Password Everywhere: One breach = total compromise
- Variations: Password1, Password2 fool nobody
How Password Managers Work (Simply)
Think of it as a super-secure vault:
- You remember ONE strong master password
- The manager creates unique passwords for everything
- It fills them in automatically when needed
- Everything is encrypted military-grade
- You can access from any device securely
Business Benefits Beyond Security
- Time Saved: No more password resets (15 min each)
- Sharing: Securely share passwords with team
- Audit Trail: Know who accessed what and when
- Emergency Access: Designated person can access if needed
- Compliance: Meet password requirements automatically
Choosing the Right Password Manager
| Manager | Best For | Price | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitwarden | Budget-conscious | $3/user/month | Open source |
| 1Password | User-friendly | $8/user/month | Travel mode |
| LastPass | Large teams | $7/user/month | Advanced reporting |
| Dashlane | VPN needed | $10/user/month | Built-in VPN |
Implementation Plan (2 Weeks)
Week 1:
- Day 1-2: Choose and sign up for manager
- Day 3-4: Import existing passwords
- Day 5: Change critical passwords (email, bank)
Week 2:
- Day 1-2: Change remaining passwords
- Day 3-4: Train employees
- Day 5: Enable 2-factor everywhere possible
Myth: "Password managers can be hacked too!"
Truth: Yes, but it's like saying "Safes can be cracked, so I'll leave money on the table." The risk of not using one is 1000x higher.