CURRENT BYTES: I Can’t Remember My Password — What Can I Do?

Sara Stauner

This past week the recurring theme that has been plaguing our technicians ticketing portal is clients’ password management. We have all been there, after attempting to log in we get the dreaded message, “Incorrect Password — The password you entered is incorrect, please try again.” Only to reset your password and end up with another message “Your New Password Can’t be the Same as the Existing Password.”

Symptom

Relying on the web browser to store and remember passwords.

Reason for Password Mismanagement

The client accidentally deleted the browser history which then cleared the passwords. This action is irreversible and unfortunately cannot be undone!

Resolution

Utilize a secure application / software where passwords are stored. Instead of having to remember all your passwords — you just need to remember the one password to log into the secure password storage software.

Symptom

Client could not remember where they wrote their password down.

Reason for Password Mismanagement

The passwords were not written down or it was written down but misplaced. Most commonly it was written on a notepad that was nearby or on a Post-It note which eventually falls off the computer!

Resolution

Passwords should be written down in one centralized location that is easily accessible. Even if it is a notebook — it should be one notebook for all passwords that is near your computer or in your computer bag.

Symptom

The client simply forgot their password (who can blame them with all the passwords to remember).

Reason for Password Mismanagement

Recalling passwords from brain memory or muscle memory (when you need to type out the password on the keyboard) is not 100% reliable.

Resolution

Relying on memory is great in thought and typically works until you have a mind blank where you end up not being able to remember the same password you typed in an hour ago. It is helpful to have a single location for your passwords, either typed or written down.

The number of passwords that we juggle is overwhelming and that number is not decreasing. And with each service and subscription we add to our collection (personally and professionally), there is another password to remember. Effectively managing your passwords will streamline your day and reduce frustration.

Sara Stauner attended the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for her Bachelor’s in Business Communication and Master’s in School Counseling. While working at a local software business, she became a technical writer, where she developed “How To’s”, “FAQ’s” and a Department Operations Manual. In addition, she also learned and developed her software IT troubleshooting skills.

Later, both Sara and her husband (Peter J. Stauner, Jr), founded Computer Support Group. Computer Support Group can help you get your virtual work/school life back on its feet. When Sara isn’t working you can find her running around the Cornelius trails, biking and spending time with her 3 children.