5 Password Security Tips

Why Long Passwords Beat Complex Ones

Tech Tip Tuesday | BAE Networks - Metro Detroit Managed IT

Let’s face it — creating a new password can feel like cracking a secret code. You add uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters… only to be told it’s still too weak.

The truth is, password security isn’t just about complexity — it’s about length. At BAE Networks, we’re breaking the myth that a complex password is automatically a strong one. In fact, a 12-character password is significantly harder to crack than an 8-character one, even if that shorter password checks every “complexity” box.

A longer password, even made of simple words, can take thousands of years to brute-force. That’s why our cybersecurity team recommends focusing on length, randomness, and multi-layer protection to keep your Metro Detroit business’s data safe.

Here are five simple password security tips every business should implement today.

Require Longer Passwords (12-16 Characters)

Every character you add to a password increases its strength exponentially. A 12-character password has trillions of possible combinations, making it dramatically harder to crack than an 8-character password, even one filled with numbers and symbols.

According to JumpCloud, a 12-character password with mixed characters could take 34,000 years to crack through brute force, while a short, complex password might fall in minutes.

This difference comes down to entropy: password length multiplies the number of potential combinations far more than complexity rules ever can.

Use a Password Manager

By implementing a password manager, generating and storing long, random passwords is a straightforward task. Not only does it remove the burden of memorization, but it also reduces the risk of reused passwords across accounts.

Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Yes, we’ve preached about MFA time and time again, but it is one of the best cybersecurity defenses you can start with. Even if a password is compromised, MFA adds another layer of protection between cybercriminals and your company’s data.

Most platforms, like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, make MFA easy to enable, often through mobile authentication apps or text verification codes. Implementing MFA across your business accounts dramatically lowers the risk of credential-based attacks.

Avoid Predictable Password Patterns

Passwords like “P@ssw0rd” or “CompanyName2024” aren’t fooling anyone. Hackers utilize automated password-cracking tools, which can test millions of password variations in mere seconds. These can easily recognize predictable substitutions like @ for “a” or 5 for “s”. Train your employees to think critically and create unique passwords for each account.

 Here's a blog we think you'll like:

Try the Passphrase Method

One of the easiest ways to create a strong password is to use three to four random words. For example, “OceanCandleTigerDoor” is both memorable and extremely difficult to guess. Passphrases combine simplicity with strong defense—a win-win for business security.

Protecting Your Business Starts with Smarter Passwords

Stronger password policies protect more than just logins; they help defend your business’s reputation, customer trust, and sensitive data.

If your business needs help developing smarter password policies or implementing secure password management systems, BAE Networks can help. Our IT support team specializes in protecting small and mid-sized businesses in Michigan with proactive IT solutions that lock down your data the right way.

Move Beyond Password Security Tips with a Proactive IT Team

Call BAE Networks today and take the first step toward safer, smarter IT.