Passwords have been in use for different purposes over a long period of time. We are aware that in earlier times, sentries would not allow anyone inside a location if he failed to say the password. Today, we have to use passwords in different steps of our life. They are now used to control access to protected computer operating systems, mobile phones, ATMs, cable TV decoders, and a great many other applications. One who uses a computer on a regular basis has to use passwords for a number of purposes, like retrieving e-mail from servers, logins to computer accounts, accessing databases, networks, and web sites. You may even require a password if you want to read your newspaper online.

A password, however, does not necessarily have to be actual words. Passwords not formed out of actual words are difficult to guess, meaning they are safer and therefore more effective. One should note that passwords are often used to describe what can appropriately be called pass phrases. The term "pass code" sometimes means that the information used is purely numeric, such as the personal identification number (PIN) commonly used for ATM access. For the sake of convenience, passwords are usually kept short so that they could be easily memorized.

Password users should follow a few basic guidelines. First, be thoughtful when choosing a password. Avoid using persons, places or things that can be identified with you. They are often big giveaways.

Of course, you should never disclose or show your password to anyone. Your password is as valuable as whatever it protects. Take care that you always log off or lock your terminal before you leave it.

Change your password regularly. The longer you use a password, the greater the risk. Most important, report without delay if you suspect someone has tampered with your files.