Texas Health and Human Services System logo
HHS Computer Usage and
Information Security Training
Module 5: Passwords and Software
Outline - opens course outline in a new window
Help - opens Help menu in a new window
Close course - closes course
1. Passwords Back
4 of 8
Next

Selecting a Strong Password

Strong passwords provide the first line of defense against improper access and compromise of confidential information.

computer monitor displaying the login screen
Strong passwords typically follow these best practice characteristics:
  • Contain both uppercase and lowercase characters
  • Should never be the same as your user ID
  • Have digits (e.g., 0-9), special characters (e.g., !@#%, etc.), and letters
  • Are at least 8 characters long
    • Some legacy systems may not accept an 8 alphanumeric character string and special characters
    • Contain no consecutive duplicate characters (e.g., 99 or BB)
Instructions Click or select the NEXT button above to continue.
Previous Module   Next Lesson