NoFussKit field guide

How to generate and store strong passwords

A strong password is random, long and unique to one account. Generation is only half the workflow; secure storage and recovery planning are equally important.

Reviewed 17 August 20266 min readBy NoFussKit Editorial Team

Prefer random length over patterns

Predictable substitutions such as replacing an a with @ do not make a common phrase truly random. Attackers test familiar patterns and leaked-password variations efficiently.

For accounts that accept them, a random password of 16 to 20 characters using several character sets is a practical starting point. Longer values provide more possible combinations when every character is independently selected.

Use cryptographic randomness

NoFussKit uses the browser crypto.getRandomValues API rather than Math.random. It also includes at least one character from each selected set before shuffling the result.

Generation stays on the device. That privacy does not protect a password copied into an unsafe document, shared chat or compromised clipboard history after generation.

Store each password once

A reputable password manager can store a different generated password for every service. Reuse is dangerous because one breached site can expose credentials for unrelated accounts.

Protect the manager itself with a strong master credential and recovery method. Review emergency access and export options before relying on any provider.

Add a second factor

Enable multi-factor authentication when available, preferably with a security key or authenticator rather than SMS where practical. It protects a different part of the login process.

Treat the on-page strength meter as a local checklist, not a breach lookup or proof against every attack. Never paste a real password into an unknown strength-testing site.

  • Generate with a cryptographic source
  • Use a unique password per account
  • Store it in a trusted manager
  • Enable MFA
  • Keep recovery details current