TL;DR
Passwords and passphrases both secure access to systems, but passphrases — typically 15 or more characters made up of random words — offer greater security due to higher entropy and resistance to brute-force attacks. They are also easier to remember than complex character strings. Security standards and the FBI recommend using the longest passphrase a system allows, built from random, unrelated words with symbols and mixed case.
Key differences: Passwords and Passphrases
Passwords usually contain a combination of special characters, letters, and numbers with variable lengths. Most are around 10 characters.
A passphrase is basically a longer password, usually at least 15 characters in length, with spaces between words. Both passwords and passphrases can be used to encrypt data and maintain secure access to websites, software, and hardware systems.
What is a password?
A password is a string of characters required for access to a system.
Passwords are a common method for encrypting or securing data, and confidential, proprietary, and personal information. Different sites and programs have variable requirements for passwords, including lengths, the inclusion of both numbers and letters, the use of upper and lowercase letters, and special symbols.
A password can look like this: 4jli$oju?A.
What is a passphrase?
A passphrase is basically a more secure form of a password. People use passphrases for the same reasons and in the same way as a password. A passphrase is typically longer and contains spaces. A passphrase can also contain symbols, and it does not need to be grammatically correct.
It is often best if the words in the passphrase are completely random. The passphrase meaning should not be easy to guess or a typical or common phrase. using a random phrase makes a passphrase stronger. An example of a passphrase can be "flew cat, bo0k through there!" A passphrase should be easy to remember but hard for hackers to crack and guess.
When should you use a passphrase instead of a password?
Both a password and a passphrase can be made secure. But generally speaking, a strong, random passphrase is said to have more entropy and therefore be more secure than a regular password. Longer passwords (15 characters or more) can also have a high level of entropy, making them more difficult to crack through brute force, but they are also harder to remember.
| Attribute | Password | Passphrase |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Length | ~10 characters | 15+ characters |
| Character Types | Special characters, letters, and numbers | Words with spaces and symbols |
| Memorability | Harder to remember | Easier to remember |
| Security/Entropy | Lower entropy | Higher entropy |
| Brute-Force Resistance | More vulnerable | More resistant |
Most passcode rules and security standards allow for the use of passphrases instead of passwords. On the whole, using a passphrase is more secure and offers better peace of mind. In either case, the FBI recommends making passwords or passphrases as long as a system will allow for optimal security.
Tips for passphrase creation
When creating a strong passphrase, follow these rules:
- Do not choose a popular phrase or saying.
- Avoid song lyrics.
- Consider nonsense words.
- Make the phrase at least 15 characters long.
- Five words are better than four.
- Add in symbols and letters.
- Choose random words.
- Use a different phrase for each account.
Remember that a passphrase does not need to be a proper sentence or even follow basic grammar rules.
Why is a passphrase better than a password?
Here are some key reasons why a passphrase is generally considered a stronger choice than a traditional password.
- Passphrases are easier to remember than passwords. A random collection of numbers and symbols can be difficult to keep track of, which can mean that users often make it simpler to remember them. A passphrase is usually not as hard to remember.
- Passphrases are difficult to crack through brute force. Many password-cracking tools work to break down 10-character passwords. Since passphrases are longer, they can be much more secure and safe from these tools.
- Passwords are easily hacked by password-cracking tools and robots as well as by humans. People do not like to change passwords and tend to stick to things that they can remember, making them more easily guessed.
- Most major applications and operating systems (OS) allow for up to 127 characters and the use of passphrases for optimal security.
- A passphrase can easily satisfy complex rules and requirements for passwords, as most allow for punctuation and uppercase and lowercase letters.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between a password and a passphrase?
A password is typically a short string of mixed characters around 10 characters long, while a passphrase is a longer sequence — usually 15 or more characters — made up of random words separated by spaces. Passphrases can also include symbols and do not need to follow grammar rules.
Why is a passphrase considered more secure than a password?
Passphrases generally have higher entropy, meaning they are statistically harder to crack. Because they are longer than typical passwords, they are more resistant to brute-force attacks and the automated tools commonly used to break shorter passwords.
How long should a passphrase be?
A passphrase should be at least 15 characters long, and the FBI recommends making it as long as the system will allow. Using five or more random words is considered stronger than four.
Does a passphrase need to make grammatical sense?
No. A passphrase does not need to be a proper sentence or follow grammar rules. In fact, using completely random, unrelated words makes a passphrase harder to guess.
Can a passphrase meet complex password requirements?
Yes. Most systems that enforce complex password rules — such as requiring uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and punctuation — can be satisfied by a well-constructed passphrase, since passphrases can include all of these elements.
Should you use the same passphrase for multiple accounts?
No. Just as with passwords, you should use a different passphrase for each account to limit exposure if one is ever compromised.
References
FBI Tech Tuesday: Strong Passphrases and Account Protection. (May 2021). FBI Phoenix.
Password vs Passphrase. (2021). John Carroll University.
