In recent years, it's become clear that password managers are the most effective way to secure the internet accounts of small businesses. In this article, we'll explain why a password manager is so important to your business' security and walk through the best options for securing your information.
What is a password manager?
A password manager is a software program that helps you create strong passwords and then remembers them.
You've likely seen this type of software before. It's often called a “password vault” or an “online password manager.”
There are many types of password managers available, including those that offer website access to your stored passwords and those that offer no online access at all. Some are free, while others charge a monthly fee.
Both types have their benefits: Free versions can be more flexible in how they're used by allowing users to store their passwords anywhere on the web; paid versions tend to be more secure because they encrypt data before sending it over the internet and don't require any additional downloads or installations into your computer.
Why do you need a password manager for business?
Free and Paid Password Managers for Business
First, let's talk about free vs. paid password managers for business. Are they worth the money? How much should you spend on one?
The benefits of using a paid password manager for business are pretty obvious: they're more secure and reliable than their free counterparts. Some paid options also come with additional features and functionality that can make your life as an online business owner easier. You'll still get all the basics in terms of storing passwords, but you may also be able to find some helpful bells and whistles like:
In terms of cost, password managers come in several different price points depending on what exactly you need out of your software solution. From free versions to hundreds of dollars per month, there's something for every budget.
Finding out what works best for your budget is the best advice!
Pros
Cons
Passwarden is an innovative password management tool for businesses. They provide a 7-day free trial to learn about Passwarden's features, after which you may purchase a membership if you want to continue. You can also use the software for free, however, there are certain limitations, which include:
Passwarden's features include password sharing across devices via cloud storage. With high-quality algorithms, you won't have to worry about the confidentiality and integrity of your data. Storage for any data type, including passwords, logins, contacts, software licenses, SSNs, credit/debit cards, ID cards, secure notes, and much more.
It also offers two-factor authentication options, such as email verification or code generation.
Let me assure you that Passwarden's features aren't superfluous even if this seems like a lot of bells and whistles for what should be a simple software program. Using Passwarden makes it easier than ever for companies to control their password security policies without having to hire IT professionals or spend a lot of money.
Make it easy to conveniently access all your accounts on any device.
Note: Passwarden is a part of the MonoDefense security bundle.
Pros
Cons
Over 100,000 businesses now rely on 1Password to safeguard their most sensitive data. Their service is simple to set up and integrates with other identity and access management (IAM) platforms such as Azure Active Directory and Okta.
1Password has numerous price levels to choose from, including an individual plan, a family plan, and a business plan. This package may be distributed to an unlimited number of people, with a simple onboarding procedure and an admin interface to manage your account.
Aside from the advanced business tools, you'll get all of 1Password's fundamental features, such as a password generator, secure document storage, and the Watchtower data breach report.
Pros
Cons
LastPass features one of the most user-friendly admin dashboard interfaces among password managers. It provides a freemium plan that is limited to one device.
LastPass is also accessible for families and businesses, with apps and browser extensions for all of your devices. You'll get a password generator and an encrypted vault for password and document storage, as well as enhanced password sharing, dark web surveillance, emergency access, and other features.
Pros
Cons
Bitwarden is a free, open-source password manager for businesses and two-person businesses. They also provide plans for individuals, teams, and corporations, which include enhanced security, storage tools, and other features.
Bitwarden's source code is available on GitHub and has been independently audited by a third party due to its open-source nature. It employs 256-bit AES encryption and other security mechanisms to ensure that no one, not even the Bitwarden support team, has access to your vault. Advanced users can also use their vault to run command-line scripts.
Pros
Cons
Dashlane is a secure password manager for businesses, both small and large. The software includes everything your business needs to secure and manage its passwords, including 256-bit AES encryption, a plethora of features, and an intuitive employee dashboard.
Dashlane provides a 30-day free trial period for all business plans, including the Team and Business plans.
The key difference between the two plans is that the Business plan includes advanced authentication features, such as SAML-based single sign-on. Both plans include a public Wi-Fi VPN, email assistance 24 hours a day, and group password-sharing features.
Dashlane is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and it works with the majority of popular browsers and smartphones. It also supports enterprise mass deployment and remote account deactivation.
Pros
Cons
Keeper is an extremely user-friendly and secure password manager with numerous extensive integration and admin customization features. Keeper's encrypted messenger app (KeeperChat) can also be added to your company plan, making communication between team members very convenient and secure.
Keeper protects your data with AES 256-bit encryption and zero-knowledge architecture. Since your passwords will not be accessible to Keeper's technical support staff, your passwords will remain secure from hackers.
Keeper is available in a variety of paid packages, including individual, family, and enterprise plans. All plans include unlimited password storage and device synchronization, and they are compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Mac, Windows, and Linux.
Pros
Cons
RoboForm is a cross-platform password manager available for both individual users and businesses. Business pricing is a little more complicated and is based on the total number of users and the length of your subscription.
A support toolkit and training webinars are also included with business plans, and you can receive a 14-day free trial for up to 30 customers. You'll get a centralized Management Console to add staff and assign credentials and permissions, in addition to fundamental features like a password generator and autofill functions.
Discover the safe password management.
Pros
Cons
Although the unusual cloud-based service WWPass PassHub is incredibly safe and works on any platform, it does not automatically collect or fill in credentials. If you value security over convenience, this is a great password manager for your business.
Pros
Cons
NordPass is an innovative password management tool designed to make online life easier and safer on any device. It's given to you by the same team that brought you NordVPN, so anticipate the same emphasis on security, such as zero-knowledge architecture, a third-party security audit, and two-factor authentication choices.
NordPass for Business enables teams to instantly communicate secure passwords and other critical information. The admin panel of the Business Plan gives you complete control over member access levels and permissions. It also allows you to invite an unlimited number of users, but only those with active accounts are charged.
Pros
Cons
PassCamp is a game-changing cloud-based password management designed specifically for enterprises. It's the first and only password and secret management tool designed from the ground up for teams.
PassCamp employs cutting-edge security technologies such as AES-256 and RSA-4096 encryption, zero-knowledge proof, transport layer encryption, and centralized blockchain to assure the confidentiality of your sensitive data.
It is designed to be as simple to use as possible, employing the best design techniques and user testing. PassCamp is the most user-friendly password manager available, according to both collaborative teams and individual users.
In addition to a free plan that is limited to one device, PassCamp also offers paid plans for individuals, teams, and enterprises.
Pros
Cons
For popular browsers and mobile devices, Norton Password Manager is a straightforward, free password manager, but it lacks the features and professional design of business password managers.
Pros
Cons
LogMeOnce has an ad-supported free plan, although small organizations are likely to benefit more from one of their business or professional programs. The Team & Business plan includes a personal vault for each user, admin tools for managing users and establishing security policies, and single sign-on options.
The Enterprise plan comes with several additional features, such as role-based access controls, Active Directory Integration, and more. You’ll also get 1 GB of encrypted file storage and priority technical support. LogMeOnce offers a 14-day free trial, so you can try it out before committing to a subscription.
Pros
Cons
Password Boss is a secure user-friendly password manager for businesses with an easy-to-use admin interface and a robust feature set.
Password Boss is a password manager that is available for paid personal and business usage, as well as managed service providers (MSPs).
Password Boss uses AES 256-bit encryption with safe cloud storage and claims to be able to set up your team in three minutes. It also has a remote delete function that you can utilize if a file is accidentally deleted.
Pros
Cons
Zoho Vault provides a wide range of password management solutions, beginning with a free plan for individual users and progressing to Professional and Enterprise subscriptions.
All plans offer unlimited password storage, device syncing, and compatibility with the majority of major browsers, mobile devices, and desktop OS systems. You may also import existing passwords from csv files, as well as keep notes and other important information.
Pros
Cons
Google Password Manager is one of the most popular password managers on the market. It's free, simple to use, and offers some features that make life easier for you (and your team).
Google Password Manager syncs passwords across devices using your Google account. You'll be able to access websites on Chrome at home and at work, and they'll sync with other Chrome devices and Android phones running version 5.0 or later. However, you'll have to be signed into your Google account on each device.
With Password Manager's official iOS app, you can use Dropbox and Facebook accounts seamlessly. This means any updates you make will appear in Password Manager automatically if you are using an iPhone or iPad.
Enjoy the most effective way to secure the internet accounts of small businesses.