How Often Should Administrators and Network Users Change Their Passwords?

One of the most common questions in cybersecurity is how often passwords should be changed. The right password policy can greatly enhance security, but it's important to strike a balance to avoid causing frustration for users. So, how often should administrators and network users be required to change their passwords?

Contextual Background

In the past, frequent password changes were recommended as a best practice. However, modern cybersecurity guidelines now suggest that forced password changes can actually have a negative impact on security. Forcing users to change passwords too frequently can lead to weaker passwords, as users may resort to predictable patterns or write them down.

Answer

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, the general consensus among cybersecurity experts is that passwords should be changed periodically, but not excessively. A common recommendation is to change passwords every 60-90 days. This timeframe strikes a balance between maintaining security and minimizing the burden on users.

It's also worth noting that password changes should be encouraged after any potential security incident, such as a data breach or suspected compromise. Additionally, implementing multi-factor authentication can provide an extra layer of security, reducing the reliance on password changes alone.

Ultimately, the key is to promote strong password practices, such as using complex and unique passwords for each account, along with regular monitoring for unauthorized access.