How to start using a password manager

Stop reusing passwords without having to remember dozens of them. Set up a password manager and fix the passwords that matter most.

About 40 minutes 12 steps Phone and computer

Tick each step as you go. Your progress is saved on this device only, so you can stop and come back later.

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Before you start

A password manager is an app that creates strong passwords for you, remembers them, and fills them in when you sign in. You only have to remember one password: the one that unlocks the app.

You don’t have to move every account today. Set it up, fix your most important passwords, and let it save the rest as you go.

Part 1 · About 20 minutes

Pick one and set it up

Choose an app and make sure only you can get into it.

1. Choose your password manageriPhone and Mac: the Passwords app is already built in. Android and Chrome: Google Password Manager is built in. Want one app that works on every phone, computer and browser? Try a free one like Bitwarden, or a paid one like 1Password.Why: The best password manager is the one you’ll actually use. Built-in ones are a great start.5 min

2. Install it on your phone and computerDownload apps only from the App Store, Google Play or the company’s own website. If it offers a browser extension, add it on your computer too. For built-in ones, make sure you’re signed in to the same Apple Account or Google Account on each device.5 min

3. Make a strong password to unlock itFor apps like Bitwarden, create a main password made of 4 or 5 random words, like “pickle orbit lantern velvet” (but not that one). Never use it anywhere else, and write it down somewhere safe at home. For built-in ones, your phone passcode and your Apple or Google password protect everything, so make sure those are strong.Why: It’s the one password that unlocks all the others.3 min

4. Turn on two-step verification for itTurn it on in the password manager’s account settings, or for your Apple Account or Google Account if you use a built-in one.3 min

5. Save your recovery informationSome apps give you a recovery code or “emergency kit.” Print it or write it down and keep it at home. For an Apple Account, consider adding a recovery contact. For Google, check your recovery phone and email.Why: If you forget your main password, this is how you get back in.3 min

Part 2 · About 8 minutes

Move your passwords in

Get your saved logins into one place.

6. Import passwords saved in your browserMost password managers can bring in passwords already saved in Chrome, Safari or Edge. Look for Import in the app’s settings. If you switch away from your browser’s built-in saver, turn off its offers to save passwords so everything stays in one place.5 min

7. Turn on autofillOn iPhone, go to Settings → General → AutoFill & Passwords and choose your app. On Android, search Settings for Autofill and choose your app.2 min

8. Let it save the rest as you goNext time you sign in somewhere, let the app save that login. You don’t need to add every account today.1 min

Part 3 · About 15 minutes

Fix the passwords that matter most

Start with the accounts that could do the most damage if someone got in.

9. Change your email password firstSign in to your email, change the password, and let your password manager create a new one (16 characters or more).Why: Your email can reset all your other passwords.3 min

10. Then change your banking and money app passwordsDo the same for your bank, credit card, PayPal, Venmo or Cash App.5 min

11. Fix reused and weak passwordsLook for Security recommendations (Apple Passwords), Password Checkup (Google) or a password health report in your app. Change any password it flags, starting with accounts you care about most.Why: Hackers try leaked passwords on many websites. A different password everywhere stops that.5 min

12. Share passwords safely, if you need toTo share a Wi-Fi or streaming password with family, use your app’s sharing feature, like shared groups in Apple Passwords. Never text or email a password.2 min

Where this comes from

Last checked Nov 11, 2026. Apps change their menus often. If a step doesn't match your screen, try typing the setting's name into the search bar in Settings. Spotted a change? Tell us.

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