Passphrase Best Practices
A quick, practical reference for when and how to use passphrases effectively
Passphrases offer the best balance between security and memorability. Instead of short, complex passwords, they use a sequence of random words that are easy to recall yet extremely hard to guess.
What is a Passphrase?
A passphrase is a password made of multiple random words, for example:
planet-forest-window-lanterncoffee river sunset mountain
Each additional random word adds bits of entropy, which is a measure of unpredictability, making the overall phrase resistant to brute-force attacks.
Why Choose a Passphrase?
- High entropy. Each random word typically adds about 11 to 13 bits of strength.
- Easier recall. Familiar words are simpler to remember than complex character strings.
- Better usability. People are less likely to write them down or reuse them across accounts.
When generated with a secure wordlist, a five to six word passphrase can exceed the security of a sixteen character random password.
When to Use Passphrases
Choose passphrases whenever you need both strong security and memorability.
Ideal Scenarios
| Situation | Why it’s ideal |
|---|---|
| Master passwords, such as for a password manager | You will type it manually and need to remember it reliably. |
| Encryption keys for files or drives | Long, random, and recallable makes recovery easier without weakening security. |
| SSH, VPN, or GPG keys | Reduces the chance of forgetting while maintaining strong protection. |
| Wi-Fi networks | Easier for family or guests to enter securely without resorting to weak phrases. |
| Personal logins that you memorize, such as email or device admin | Simpler to recall and harder to guess or phish. |
Avoid for
| Situation | Use instead |
|---|---|
| Shared accounts | A strong, random password stored in a password manager. |
| Short-lived or temporary accounts | A simpler unique password is acceptable. |
| Auto-filled accounts | A random password managed by your password manager. |
How Many Words Should You Use?
| Words | Approximate strength | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|
| 3 words | About 39 bits | Only for low-risk uses |
| 4 words | About 52 bits | Medium security |
| 5 words | About 65 bits | Strong |
| 6+ words | 78+ bits | Excellent, suitable for master or encryption keys |
Entropy assumes an EFF Diceware style list of about seven thousand seven hundred and seventy six words.
Best Practices
- Use a secure generator. Do not invent phrases yourself. The Passphrase Helper uses browser-only randomness and local wordlists for privacy.
- Avoid meaningful phrases. Phrases such as “ilovemycat” or “sunsetinthewest” are easy to guess. Randomness is what provides security.
- Add separators wisely. Hyphens, spaces, or periods improve readability without reducing strength.
- Never reuse passphrases. Treat each one like a unique key.
- Store securely if needed. Use a password manager or encrypted notes for backups.
- Review critical passphrases periodically. This is especially important for encryption or administrator use.
Print-friendly guidance is available below. If you print this page, keep the physical copy in a secure location and never write your actual passphrases on it.
Print-Friendly Notes
- Keep any printed copy in a secure place that is separate from your computer.
- Do not write your real passphrases on printed sheets.
- Use printed material for training or security awareness only.
This page is provided for educational purposes only. CyberLifeCoach and its affiliates make no warranties regarding completeness or accuracy. You are responsible for choosing and maintaining passphrases according to your own risk tolerance and organizational policy. Never store passphrases in plain text.