How to Organize Computer Passwords

Keeping track of computer passwords for music sites, forums, blogs, and other websites can be a trick of the mind or a sticky mess of post-it notes. A simple organization method can keep them handily stored for use by your computer.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 recipe box
• 1 package of index cards
• 1 set of A-Z organizers

1. Fill out the cards with the necessary password information. Write the website name at the top, then the password, any registered email accounts or security questions. Fill out an individual card for each website or forum you want added to your files.

2. Place the cards in the box, putting them in alphabetical order or in order by subject: for instance, "F" could contain all the forums you belong to or your password to fakewebsite.com.

3. Place an alphabetical separator between each category or letter as you place them in order. A few letter sections may be empty, but leave them in case of future references.

4. Place a stack of blank cards in the back of the box. This way, whenever you acquire a new account, you can write down the pertinent information as you sign up, then file the card in the appropriate section.

5. Place the box near your computer for quick access when logging on.

Tips & Warnings

• Store the box in a private location if others use your computer with whom you don't want to share your private information.
• Make sure you remove and destroy cards for expired accounts, in order to keep your records up-to-date and properly organized.
• Only fill out cards for accounts you feel comfortable keeping in physical record form. Sensitive accounts, like bank accounts or Paypal, you can store elsewhere in a locked location or skip altogether if you prefer.

[westernmom]

on 4/26/2009 This is a really good idea. I actually use a rolodex for mine. Thanks for writing. 5*