Password Security - CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 - 4.6

Understanding Password Security

Importance of Password Complexity

• When creating a password, it's crucial to increase its entropy to make it less predictable and resistant to attacks like password spraying or brute force.

• A strong password should include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, ideally exceeding eight characters in length.

Password Expiration Policies

• Many systems implement a password age policy that requires users to change their passwords after a set duration (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days).

• Users receive notifications about impending password expirations; failure to change the password can result in account lockout.

Best Practices for Password Management

• It's recommended to use unique passwords for different accounts to prevent unauthorized access across multiple platforms if one password is compromised.

• Utilizing a password manager can help store various passwords securely while providing additional security measures such as encryption.

Features of Password Managers

• Password managers encrypt stored information and may require multifactor authentication for access.

• They often come built into operating systems or as third-party applications, offering features like automatic password generation and health checks on existing passwords.

Transitioning to Passwordless Authentication

• Many users still do not utilize password managers effectively, leading to repeated use of passwords across sites which increases vulnerability.

• The shift towards passwordless authentication methods eliminates the need for remembering complex passwords by using alternatives like biometric recognition or PIN codes.

Managing Access with Just-in-Time Permissions

Temporary Administrative Rights

• In environments with many users accessing various systems, just-in-time permissions allow temporary administrative access when needed without permanent rights assigned.

Requesting Access through Centralized Systems

Just-in-Time Credentialing Process

Overview of Just-in-Time Credentialing

• The just-in-time process generates new credentials based on primary credentials for each individual user.

• New credentials are assigned to users on an ephemeral basis, meaning they are temporary and will not be permanently stored.

• This approach ensures that primary credentials remain confidential and are never exposed to unauthorized individuals.