Password or passphrase?

Random passwords

A password manager can generate and store a long sequence of unrelated characters. It is compact and difficult to guess.

Passphrases

A passphrase combines independently selected words. It can be easier to type while providing a large search space.

Length versus complexity

Predictable substitutions add little uncertainty. Increasing genuinely random length generally provides a clearer benefit.

Practical recommendation

• Use unique random passwords for ordinary accounts.
• Use a long random passphrase when memorization is unavoidable.
• Never reuse credentials across services.
• Enable multifactor authentication.