5 min read

How to Choose a Strong Master Password

Your master password is the single key to your entire password vault. Choose wisely — it needs to be both secure and memorable.

Why It Matters

In AmnPass, your master password does two critical things:

  • Derives the encryption keys that protect your vault
  • Authenticates you to the service

If someone guesses your master password, they can access all your passwords. If you forget it, no one — not even AmnPass — can recover your data.

No Recovery Option

Due to zero-knowledge encryption, we cannot reset your master password. If you forget it, your vault is permanently inaccessible. Choose something memorable and store a backup.

The Passphrase Method (Recommended)

Instead of a traditional password, use a passphrase — a sequence of random words. They're:

  • Easier to remember than random characters
  • Harder to crack (when using enough words)
  • Easier to type accurately

Good Passphrase Examples

correct horse battery staple

4 random words, easy to visualize

purple-elephant-dancing-quietly

Hyphens make it easier to type

TreeHouse47SunflowerPiano

Mixed case with a number for extra security

How to Generate a Passphrase

  1. Pick 4-6 truly random words (don't just think of words — use a random word generator or dice)
  2. Optionally add a number or symbol to satisfy site requirements
  3. Practice typing it until it's second nature

What to Avoid

password123

Too common — in every hacker's dictionary

JohnSmith1985

Personal info is guessable

letmein

Too short, too common

Avoid:

  • Dictionary words on their own
  • Personal information (birthdays, names, pet names)
  • Passwords you've used elsewhere
  • Anything shorter than 12 characters
  • Common patterns (qwerty, 123456)

Store a Backup

Since we can't recover your master password, store a backup in a secure physical location:

  • Write it down and keep it in a safe, lockbox, or bank deposit box
  • Give it to a trusted person (spouse, parent) for emergencies
  • Create a hint that only you would understand

Pro Tip

Consider storing your master password on paper in two locations — one at home in a safe place, one with a trusted family member or in a bank safe deposit box.

Summary

  • Use a passphrase of 4+ random words
  • Make it unique — never reuse passwords
  • Practice typing it
  • Store a physical backup in a secure location
  • Never share it digitally (no email, no chat)

Ready to create your vault?

Now that you know how to create a strong master password, start protecting your accounts with AmnPass.

Zero-knowledge encryption
End-to-end encrypted
2FA authenticator included