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The Truth About Password Security: Why Length Beats Complexity

Writer's picture: Jeremy DruinJeremy Druin

When it comes to password security, many organizations still follow outdated practices that create frustration for users without truly enhancing protection. Password rotation, arbitrary complexity requirements, and discouragingly short password limits are relics of the past. Modern cybersecurity best practices show us that password length, the use of a password manager, and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) are far more critical than forcing users to create overly complex passwords.


At Ellipsis InfoSec, we help businesses design password policies that are both effective and user-friendly. Here’s why it’s time to rethink your approach to password security.


Why Long Passwords Are More Secure


The strength of a password lies in its unpredictability and resistance to brute-force attacks. The longer a password, the more difficult it is for attackers to crack it, even with advanced tools.


Consider this:


  • A 10-character password with random letters, numbers, and symbols might take days or weeks to crack.

  • A 20-character password, even with simple words or phrases, can take centuries.


Long passwords create an exponentially larger "keyspace," making brute-force attacks almost impossible within a reasonable timeframe.


The Problem with Over-Focusing on Complexity


Complexity requirements—such as forcing users to include uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols—may seem like a good idea, but they often backfire:


  • User Frustration: Complex passwords are hard to remember, leading to more frequent resets.

  • Weak Choices: Users often create predictable patterns (e.g., “Password1!”) to meet complexity rules.

  • Post-It Notes: When passwords are too hard to remember, users may resort to writing them down, creating additional vulnerabilities.


Instead of mandating complexity, encourage long, memorable passphrases. For example:


  • Weak: Pa$$w0rd!

  • Strong: MyCoffeeCupIsBlueAndHuge4242


The latter is easier to remember and far harder to crack.


Do Away with Mandatory Password Rotation


For years, organizations required users to change their passwords every 60 or 90 days. However, modern research shows that forced password rotation can be counterproductive:


  • Poor Habits: Users often make only small changes to old passwords (e.g., Spring2023 becomes Summer2023).

  • Unnecessary Hassle: Constant rotation leads to increased frustration and more frequent resets.


Best Practice: Only require password changes if there is evidence of compromise, such as a phishing attack or a breached database.


Use a Password Manager for Ultimate Security


Password managers are an essential tool for modern cybersecurity. They allow users to create and store strong, unique passwords for every account without the need to remember them all.


Why You Should Use a Password Manager:


  • Effortless Security: Automatically generate long, complex passwords and store them securely.

  • No Reuse: Helps prevent the reuse of passwords across multiple accounts, reducing vulnerability to credential-stuffing attacks.

  • Easy Access: Sync your passwords across devices, ensuring you have secure access wherever you go.


Popular password managers like 1Password, or Dashlane simplify password management and encourage better habits without overburdening users.


Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Your Best Ally


Even with long, strong passwords, breaches can happen. This is where Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) becomes a game-changer. MFA adds an additional layer of protection, requiring something the user knows (password) and something they have (e.g., a smartphone, security key, or biometric).


Why MFA Matters:


  • Prevents unauthorized access, even if a password is stolen.

  • Reduces the impact of phishing and credential stuffing attacks.


Modern Password Policy Recommendations


To keep your business secure and your users happy, consider these guidelines:


  1. Encourage Long Passphrases: Recommend passwords of at least 16–20 characters, combining words and simple additions like numbers.

  2. Use a Password Manager: Simplify secure password creation and storage.

  3. Implement MFA: Require Multi-Factor Authentication for all sensitive accounts and systems.

  4. Avoid Forced Rotation: Change passwords only when there’s evidence of compromise.

  5. Educate Users: Provide training on creating strong passwords and recognizing phishing attempts.


Ellipsis InfoSec: Helping You Secure What Matters


At Ellipsis InfoSec, we help businesses modernize their cybersecurity practices, including implementing effective password policies. Let us show you how simple, actionable changes can significantly reduce your risk.


📩 Contact Us to learn more about strengthening your defenses today.


Final Thoughts


Outdated password policies belong in the past. By embracing longer passwords, using a password manager, and implementing MFA, you can enhance security without creating unnecessary frustration. Remember, effective cybersecurity isn’t just about technology—it’s about finding the right balance between security and usability.

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