In today's online environment, recalling thousands of distinct passwords for various accounts can be highly daunting. While this guide will focus on how 1Password works, it’s important to note that other password managers like LastPass, Bitwarden, and Dashlane offer similar features. These tools allow you to manage your passwords safely and conveniently, though we will primarily showcase 1Password as an example for step-by-step process.
Steps to use the 1Password Browser Extension
Step 1: Install the 1Password Manager Extension
Add the password manager’s extension to your browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, or Edge) through the browser extension store. Other popular tools, such as LastPass and Bitwarden, also offer browser extensions with similar features.
Step 2: Set up your Account
Enter your Name and Email Address in the provided fields, then click Next.
Check your email to see the code sent by 1Password, then click Next.
Click Next to continue with the account setup process.
Step 3: Set a Password
Set a password of your choice that includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, then click Next. Many password managers including Dashlane and LastPass, will also require a master password to ensure that only you can access your vault.
Step 4: Generate Secret Key.
Click Generate Secret Key. This step ensures that your vault is doubly protected by a unique key that is only accessible to you.
Step 5: Save the Secret Key PDF
Click Save PDF to download your secret key. Keep this PDF secure, as you will need it if you ever need to recover your account. Most password managers, including Bitwarden, will also generate recovery keys for similar purposes.
Downloaded PDF look like this:
You can optionally Enter your Password in the empty password field in case you forget it.
Click Next to move to the next step.
Step 6: Enter the password you created.
Enter the password you created earlier to continue and click Sign In. This is the master password that will protect your entire vault.
Step 7: Open the Site you want to save your Email and Password.
Navigate to the site where you want to save your email and password. For example, I chose Facebook. Tools like 1Password, Bitwarden, and Dashlane will prompt you to save credentials as soon as you log in to a site.
Step 8: Save your email and password in 1Password.
After you fill out the email and password, Save in 1Password will be displayed. Click it to save your credentials securely in your vault. Other tools like LastPass and Dashlane offer similar options to save passwords directly from the login page.
Step 9: Review and Save
Check your email and password to ensure they are correct. After viewing, click Save. Most password managers will automatically fill in your credentials for any website that you saved your vault.
Click on the arrow to autofill your email and password. When you click Log in, you will be automatically logged into the page.
