Introduction
As cyber threats continue to rise, the use of a robust password management solution has become essential for both personal and business security. Strong, unique passwords that are changed regularly are key to preventing account takeovers and data breaches. However, manually generating, storing and updating numerous complex passwords is nearly impossible. This is where password managers excel by automating password creation and filling while providing centralized vaults to securely store login credentials. This blog evaluates the top 15 password management solutions based on key criteria to help you choose the right option for your needs.
Methods of Evaluation
Each solution is evaluated based on features, platform support, security mechanisms, pricing and other factors. Technical capabilities assessed include password generation strength, number of supported platforms and devices, encryption standards, authentication options and audit functionality. Ease of use factors like interfaces, sharing options and integrations are also considered. Commercial aspects like pricing models, premium features and customer support are evaluated. Additionally, non-technical qualities like popularity based on number of backlinks, monthly website traffic and keyword search trends are leveraged to help determine the overall leaders in the space.
1. Apple Keychain
Apple Keychain is the native password manager that comes pre-installed on all MacOS devices. As Apple’s proprietary password management solution, Keychain is tightly integrated across the Safari browser and Apple services like iCloud. It provides a simple and free solution for storing login credentials securely.
Pros: Some key advantages of Apple Keychain include:
– Native on MacOS so no additional software needed
– Tight integration with Safari and iCloud services
– Free to use with devices
– Simple and intuitive interface
– Touch/Face ID unlock capabilities on supported devices
– Sync passwords securely across Apple devices via iCloud
Cons: The main disadvantage of Apple Keychain is that it only works on Apple devices. Passwords cannot be accessed or synced across non-Apple platforms like Windows or Android.
Pricing: Apple Keychain is completely free to use as it comes pre-installed on all MacOS devices. There are no additional subscriptions or fees required to take advantage of its password management capabilities.
Some key stats and facts about Apple Keychain include:
– Over 1 billion devices with Keychain installed
– Integrates passwords across over 1 billion Apple devices
– Securely stores passwords for millions of websites and applications
2. LastPass
LastPass is one of the most popular password managers available. With over 33 million users, LastPass allows users to generate, store, and manage passwords across all of their devices and browsers. It offers cross-platform support for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android and extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Pros: Some key advantages of LastPass include:
– One of the most popular and full-featured password managers
– Cross-platform support across all major OS and devices
– Strong security and end-to-end encryption
– Emergency access options for family or organization
– Robust sharing and permission options for teams
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version only allows access on one device. For access across multiple devices, an annual premium subscription is required.
Pricing: LastPass offers both free and premium subscription plans. The free plan provides basic password management features for one device. Premium plans start at $3/month for individual use and provide multi-device access and additional features.
Some key stats about LastPass include:
– Over 33 million users worldwide
– Supports over 1,200 web applications and browser extensions
– End-to-end encryption for all stored passwords
3. 1Password
1Password is a highly rated password management and digital security solution for individuals, families, and businesses. Founded in 2005, 1Password aims to provide a simple and secure way for users to generate, store, and fill passwords and sensitive information across all of their devices and platforms.
Pros: Some key advantages of 1Password include:
– Very polished and intuitive interface.
– Cross-platform support across all major OS and devices.
– Strong security features including zero-knowledge architecture.
– Emergency access and delegation options.
– Robust sharing, permissions and audit logs for teams.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that 1Password is a paid solution, though they do offer free trials and student/non-profit discounts.
Pricing: 1Password’s pricing starts at $3/user per month for individuals and families. They also offer business and enterprise plans starting at $4/user per month and include features like SSO, mobile device management (MDM) integration, access for unlimited users and 24/7 support.
Some key stats about 1Password include:
– Over 100 million user accounts worldwide across all plans.
– Available on all major platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux and ChromeOS.
– Trusted by over 65,000 businesses worldwide.
4. Okta Access Gateway
Okta Access Gateway is a single sign-on and access management solution developed by Okta. Okta is a leading provider of identity management solutions, securing thousands of customers worldwide. Access Gateway provides secure remote access and passwordless authentication for both internal applications and cloud services.
Pros: Some key advantages of Okta Access Gateway include: secure remote access and passwordless login, dynamic access policies based on user/device details, flexible authentication options like biometrics and hardware tokens, API-driven platform allows for custom integrations, highly scalable infrastructure to support large enterprise environments.
Cons: A potential disadvantage is the added monthly subscription cost compared to using individual application passwords. However, the security and management benefits often outweigh this cost for most organizations.
Pricing: Okta Access Gateway pricing starts at $30 per user per month for the Standard plan. Premium tier plans with additional feature starts at $50 per user per month. Volume discount available for higher volume deployments.
Some key stats about Okta Access Gateway include: – Supports over 6,000 pre-built integrations with popular SaaS apps and on-premises applications. – Manages identities for over 10,000 organizations globally. – Provides access to over 7 million daily active users on average.
5. HashiCorp Vault
HashiCorp Vault is an open source secret management platform developed by HashiCorp. It securely stores passwords, certificates, API keys, and other secrets and makes them available to the systems and applications that need them through a unified API.
Pros: Some key advantages of HashiCorp Vault include: – Open source secret management platform – Stores passwords, keys, tokens and secrets – Fine-grained leasing, revocation and more – Transparent encryption and locking at rest – Tiered architecture for performance at scale
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as an open source solution, it lacks the official support of a commercial vendor. However, HashiCorp does offer paid support plans as well.
Pricing: HashiCorp Vault has three main pricing plans – Open Source (free), Pro (starts at $20/secret/month), and Enterprise (starts at $150/secret/month). The pricing is based on the number of secrets protected.
Some key stats about HashiCorp Vault include: – Used by over 50,000 teams worldwide – Supports over 10,000 deployments – Backed by over $450 million in funding – Recommended by analysts and media as a leader in secrets management
6. Dashlane
Dashlane is one of the most popular password managers on the market. Founded in 2009 and based in Paris and Denver, Dashlane helps businesses and individuals protect their passwords and other sensitive information across devices.
Pros: Some key advantages of Dashlane include:
– Cross-platform support across all major OS and devices
– Automatically generates strong random passwords
– Dark web monitoring and breach alerts
– Sync secured with 256-bit AES encryption
– Great team/business features like SSO, role-based access
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that Dashlane is not open source like some competitors. This means the exact features and security of the program are not open to public scrutiny.
Pricing: Dashlane offers both free and paid premium plans. The free plan supports basic features while premium plans range from $3.33/month to $59.99/year for individuals or families. Dashlane also offers business and team plans starting at $3.99/user/month billed annually.
Some key stats about Dashlane include:
– Over 30 million users worldwide
– Supports all major desktop and mobile platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox and more
– Dashlane’s patented technology automatically monitors the dark web to alert you if your login credentials are found in a data breach
7. Bitwarden
Bitwarden is an open source password management software that allows users to securely store all of their login credentials such as usernames, passwords, credit card details and other sensitive information. It provides cross-platform encryption to keep information private across all of a user’s devices. Users can access their logins from any computer, smartphone or tablet with an internet connection via a web vault.
Pros: Key advantages of Bitwarden include:
– Open source with transparent security audits
– Cross-platform support across all major OS and devices
– Free personal accounts with premium team tiers
– Encrypted storage and sync via cloud services
– Integrations with browsers, apps and devices
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free personal plan has limited features compared to the paid tiers, though it still provides core password management functionality.
Pricing: Bitwarden offers free personal accounts with additional premium paid tiers for teams and businesses starting at $3/user per month.
Some key stats about Bitwarden include:
– Over 20 million users worldwide
– Supports all major platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android and more
– Free personal accounts with paid team/enterprise plans available
8. ManageEngine Password Manager Pro
ManageEngine Password Manager Pro is an on-premise password management and access control solution from ManageEngine. As an appliance-based solution, it provides centralized vaulting, rotation, and administration of all employee passwords and credentials. With over 15 years in the IT management market, ManageEngine aims to give enterprises control and visibility of their IT infrastructure and resources.
Pros: Some key advantages of ManageEngine Password Manager Pro include:
– On-premise password security isolated from internet/cloud risks
– Granular role-based access control and advanced auditing
– Automated password rotation and expiry enforcement
– Self-service password management portal for end users
– Affordable perpetual licensing starting from $995
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that as an on-premise solution, it requires hardware resources and local installation/maintenance unlike SaaS-based password managers.
Pricing: ManageEngine Password Manager Pro is available through perpetual licenses starting from $995 for the basic edition covering up to 50 user accounts. Additional user packages are available as add-ons.
Some key stats about ManageEngine Password Manager Pro include:
– Secures passwords for over 5,000 customers globally across all industries
– Protected credentials include windows, Linux, database, web, and SSH passwords
– Over 10 million passwords managed daily across customer environments
9. BeyondTrust Privileged Remote Access
BeyondTrust Privileged Remote Access is a leading privileged access management solution that offers remote access, session recording and control, password management, two-factor authentication, just-in-time access, and tight integrations with other tools. They have over 20 years of experience in identity and access security.
Pros: Key advantages of BeyondTrust Privileged Remote Access include remote access, session recording and control for auditing, a password rotation service and vault for password management, two-factor authentication and just-in-time access rules for secure access, and tight integrations with RMM, SIEM, and ticketing systems for automation.
Cons: A potential disadvantage is the upfront cost may be higher than some other dedicated privilege management solutions. However, BeyondTrust Privileged Remote Access offers a lower total cost of ownership over time due to their all-in-one platform approach.
Pricing: BeyondTrust Privileged Remote Access pricing starts at $45 per user per year for basic remote control and access functionality. Their premium editions with additional features like password management and vaulting start at $90 per user per year.
Some key stats about BeyondTrust Privileged Remote Access include over 10,000 customers globally, protection of over 100 million identities, and integration with over 150 systems and applications. They process over 1 billion authentications per month.
10. NordPass
NordPass is a password manager developed by Nord Security. It allows users to securely store all their passwords and sensitive information in an encrypted digital vault that can be accessed from any device. With NordPass, users never have to remember weak, reused or written down passwords again.
Pros: Some key advantages of NordPass include:
– Military-grade encryption and zero-knowledge security ensures passwords are kept private and secure
– Cross-platform support allows syncing passwords across all devices and platforms for seamless access anywhere
– Strong random password generation helps create unique, complex passwords for optimal security
– Compliance with strict international security standards like ISO, SOC 2 Type 2 and others
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that NordPass is a subscription-based service, so ongoing payments are required to continue using all of its premium features.
Pricing: NordPass offers affordable pricing plans to suit different users’ needs. A basic individual plan starts from $3.49/month billed annually. More advanced family and business plans are also available for teams and organizations.
Some key stats and facts about NordPass include:
– Secures over 50 million user accounts globally
– Military-grade encryption and zero-knowledge security model
– Cross-platform support across all major operating systems and devices
– Strong password generator that complies with expert password guidelines
11. Keeper
Keeper is a leading password management and digital vault solution for individuals, families and businesses. Based in Chicago, Keeper was founded in 2004 and offers military-grade encryption and security features to safely store all login credentials, passwords, digital files and other secrets.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of using Keeper include:
– Military-grade encryption and security features to keep all data and passwords safe from hackers.
– Options for biometric authentication and two factor authentication for logging in.
– Robust sharing, permissions and auditing features for teams to securely share login credentials.
– Secure document storage and digital vault for storing licenses, IDs and other important files.
– Lifetime license available for individuals looking for a one time purchase option.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free plan only allows for one device and 50 passwords which may not meet more advanced usage needs.
Pricing: Keeper offers various paid plans starting from personal plans at $3/month to enterprise business plans with a range of features. There is also a lifetime license available for $100 for individuals looking for a one time purchase option.
Some key stats and facts about Keeper include:
– Over 10 million users globally across both consumer and enterprise plans.
– Encrypts all login credentials, passwords, notes and files using AES-256 bit encryption for the highest level of security.
– Winning ‘Best Password Manager’ award multiple years in a row from various publications including PC Magazine and TechRadar.
12. CyberArk Privileged Account Security
CyberArk Privileged Account Security is a leading privileged access management solution for securing, managing and monitoring privileged credentials and access across an organization. With Privileged Account Security, administrators can discover, secure and govern privileged accounts across the entire IT infrastructure including applications, databases, cloud services, Windows and Linux/Unix servers and more.
Pros: Key advantages of CyberArk Privileged Account Security include: Industry-leading PAM capabilities, Privileged session management and vaulting, Advanced access request workflows, Separation of duties and just-in-time access, Central policy and auditing dashboard.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is the high cost of the CyberArk Privileged Account Security solution compared to some open source or lower-cost PAM alternatives.
Pricing: Pricing for CyberArk Privileged Account Security varies based on number of privileged accounts, sessions and other factors. Contact CyberArk sales for a custom quote.
Some key stats about CyberArk Privileged Account Security include: Protected over 8000 customers worldwide, Secured over 50 million privileged sessions annually, Discovery of over 1.2 billion privileged accounts.
13. ConnectWise Control
ConnectWise Control, formerly known as ScreenConnect, is a leading remote support and remote access software solution developed by ConnectWise. ConnectWise Control provides MSPs and IT departments with a secure platform to remotely access and support end users. It allows technicians to remotely view and control other computers, diagnose and resolve issues, and provide step-by-step assistance to users.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of ConnectWise Control include remote access & support, secure file sharing, centralized management, and an integrated password vault. Technicians can remotely access user machines, share files securely, and manage all remote connections from a single dashboard. ConnectWise Control also features an automated password vault to store all end user credentials securely.
Cons: As an integrated platform, switching from ConnectWise Control requires moving to an entirely new PSA, RMM and remote support stack. The software is also primarily geared towards MSPs rather than internal IT teams.
Pricing: Pricing for ConnectWise Control starts at $49 per technician per month for the Core plan. Additional plans such as Standard and Premium are also available with added features and functionality. Volume discounts are available for organizations with larger technician counts.
With over 10,000 customers worldwide, ConnectWise Control is one of the most popular remote support tools on the market. It supports remote connections to over 500 different device types and has assisted in resolving over 50 million support cases to date. The software integrates seamlessly with ConnectWise Manage, Automate, and other RMM solutions to provide a centralized remote monitoring and management platform.
14. Centrify Access Manager
Centrify Access Manager, formerly known as Centrify, is a popular Privileged Access Management (PAM) solution that provides centralized access control and privileged identity management across hybrid IT environments. It helps organizations adopt a Zero Trust approach and ensures only authorized users have access to critical systems, applications, and infrastructure.
Pros: Some key advantages of Centrify Access Manager include:
– Zero trust network access and identity platform
– Centralized access control and user provisioning across hybrid IT environments
– Advanced access policy enforcement and just-in-time privilege elevation
– Integrated PAM, authentication and single sign-on capabilities
– Robust ecosystem integrations with directories, applications and APIs
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the premium pricing could be higher than some other PAM solutions for very large enterprise deployments.
Pricing: Centrify Access Manager pricing starts at $5 per seat per month for smaller deployments. Larger enterprise customers should contact the sales team for customized quoting and pricing based on their specific requirements and deployment size.
Some key stats about Centrify Access Manager include:
– Used by over 5000 customers worldwide across all major industries
– Secures access to over 10 million privileged accounts
– Protects against over 5 billion privileged access requests monthly
15. Devolutions Password Hub
Devolutions Password Hub is a powerful password management and remote access solution for businesses. As an all-in-one tool, it allows users to securely store credentials, login details, secure notes and files while enabling easy remote access to servers and workstations.
Pros: Some key advantages of Devolutions Password Hub include:
– Provides an enterprise password vault and remote access toolset in one solution
– Centrally managed via an admin dashboard with granular RBAC controls
– Advanced session recording and detailed auditing for compliance
– Integrations available for ITSM, RMM and other IT tools for simplified workflows
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the premium versions with certain advanced features like enterprise SSO are priced for large businesses rather than smaller companies or individual users.
Pricing: Devolutions Password Hub offers various pricing tiers starting from a free basic plan. The premium paid tiers range from $6-12 per user per month depending on the number of users, with additional discounts for annual plans. It also offers a generous 30-day free trial to explore all features.
Some key stats about Devolutions Password Hub include:
– Used by over 35,000 companies worldwide
– Stores over 500 million credentials securely
– Supports remote access protocols like RDP, VNC, SSH
– Military-grade AES 256-bit encryption for all stored data
Conclusion
Choosing the best password management solution depends on your specific security, collaboration and budgetary needs. This evaluation of the top 15 options highlights their respective strengths to help you select the most suitable solution. Proper use of robust password managers is crucial for protecting your online accounts and sensitive data in today’s threat landscape. They deliver security, convenience and productivity by centrally storing and auto-filling all your login credentials.