Bitwarden
Free password manager. Open source.
Why Bitwarden?
- 100% free for unlimited passwords.
- Open source — code publicly inspected.
- Works on every device.
- Premium ($10/year) adds 2FA + extras.
- Strong reputation among security experts.
- Best free password manager.
Step 1: Sign up
- Go to Bitwarden.com.
- Tap "Get Started" — Create Account.
- Enter email + master password.
- Master password = the ONE password you remember.
- Use a long passphrase (4+ random words).
- Write it down + store securely (NOT in Bitwarden!).
Step 2: Install everywhere
- Browser extension — Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge.
- Phone app — iPhone + Android.
- Sign in on each with master password.
- Your vault syncs everywhere.
- Add fingerprint/Face ID for quick unlock.
- Same vault, all devices.
Step 3: Add your passwords
- Visit a website you use, log in normally.
- Bitwarden asks "Save this login?"
- Tap "Save" — done.
- Repeat for each website over a few weeks.
- Or import from browser's saved passwords.
- Eventually all passwords in Bitwarden.
Step 4: Use Bitwarden daily
- Visit website — Bitwarden offers to fill login.
- Tap fill — auto-types your saved info.
- Generate strong unique passwords for new accounts.
- Bitwarden warns about reused or weak passwords.
- Browser extension makes this smooth.
- Phone autofill for app logins too.
For families
- Bitwarden Families: $40/year for 6 users.
- Shared family password collections.
- Streaming service logins, etc.
- Adult children can help manage.
- Emergency Access — designate trusted contact.
- If you can't login, they can help recover.
One master password to remember
The one tradeoff: you must remember your master password. Pick something memorable but strong — "sunflower elephant guitar Tuesday" is much stronger than "Password1!" and easier to remember. Write it on paper, lock it in a fireproof safe with your important documents. After that, Bitwarden remembers all your other passwords. Free forever.