A passphrase is a sequence of words or other text used to control access to a computer system, program, or data. It functions similarly to a password but is generally longer for added security, typically 20 to 30 characters or more. Passphrases are often used in cryptographic systems to protect encryption keys and are designed to be easier to remember than complex passwords while being harder to guess or crack. Key characteristics of a passphrase include:
- Usually consisting of multiple words (often three or more) that can form a sentence or a string of memorable words.
- Longer than typical passwords, often 15-30 characters or more, which makes brute-force attacks less practical.
- May include spaces or special characters, and can be structured to be easy to remember but difficult for attackers to guess.
- Offer better protection compared to traditional shorter passwords, especially against offline attacks.
Passphrases contrast with passwords, which are typically shorter (6 to 10 characters) and may be random strings of letters, numbers, and symbols. Passphrases provide increased security primarily due to their length and complexity, and are often used to protect encryption keys or sensitive data access. An example of a passphrase could be something like "flew cat, bo0k through there!" or a memorable phrase that is hard to guess but easy for the user to remember. In summary, a passphrase is a longer, more secure version of a password, made up of multiple words, designed to be both secure and memorable. This concept is widely recommended for securing login credentials and encryption keys due to its increased resistance to guessing and cracking attacks.
