complex password

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complex password" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing security measures, particularly in the context of creating secure online accounts. Example: "To enhance your account security, please create a complex password that includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Using complex password increases your passwords strength exponentially.

Columbia University

For your CEEM PC account, I do enforce a complex password requirement.

Columbia University

In the meantime, Emm says "it's not the worst thing in the world to write down a complex password while at home".

The Guardian - Tech

If you think your passwords are too weak, 1Password has an automatic strong password generator that will randomly put together a complex password for you.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Grossman stores his password file on an encrypted USB drive for which he has a long, complex password that he has memorized.

The New York Times - Tech

How is anyone — even a security professional — supposed to memorize 87 long, complex password strings, let alone remember which goes with which Web site?

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

First, and most importantly, use complex passwords.

Cornell University

But for the better part we are still using complex passwords".

The Guardian - Tech

Further research from Microsoft also reveals why only some organizations insist on very complex passwords.

MIT Technology Review

Security researchers recommend that people use two-step authentication, combined with complex passwords.

The New York Times

The sites that insisted on very complex passwords were mostly government and university sites.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When creating a "complex password", avoid using easily guessable information such as your name, birthday, or pet's name. Incorporate a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to maximize its strength.

Common error

Don't assume a long password is automatically secure. A "complex password" needs variety in character types. A lengthy password composed only of lowercase letters is less secure than a shorter password with mixed cases, numbers, and symbols.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex password" acts as a noun phrase, functioning as an adjective-noun combination that describes a specific type of password characterized by its intricate composition. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in discussions about online security.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

22%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complex password" is a commonly used term that refers to a password designed to be difficult to crack, typically involving a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct, with its primary contexts of use being News & Media, Academia and Science. To enhance password security, avoid predictable patterns and consider using password managers to generate and store "complex passwords". Always aim for a mix of character types and sufficient length, as previously highlighted. Remember, while a "complex password" is a vital security measure, it's most effective when combined with other practices like two-factor authentication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong password

Focuses on the overall strength and resilience of the password against cracking attempts.

secure password

Emphasizes the security aspect, highlighting its ability to protect data and accounts.

difficult password

Highlights the challenge for someone trying to guess or crack the password.

unpredictable password

Focuses on the password's lack of obvious patterns or connections to personal information.

long and complex password

Specifies both length and complexity as key attributes for enhanced security.

unique password

Emphasizes the importance of not reusing passwords across multiple accounts.

multi-character password

Highlights the use of different character types (uppercase, lowercase, numbers, symbols).

random password

Focuses on the generation process, indicating a lack of discernible pattern.

cryptographically strong password

Emphasizes the use of cryptographic principles to ensure password security.

robust password

Implies a password that is resilient and resistant to various cracking methods.

FAQs

How can I create a "complex password" that is also easy to remember?

Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong passwords. Alternatively, use a passphrase – a sentence or string of words – and incorporate variations like substituting numbers for letters (e.g., 'A1waysR3m3mb3r') to make it more complex.

What makes a password "complex"?

A "complex password" typically includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. The more varied the character set and the longer the password, the more resistant it is to cracking attempts.

Is there a difference between a "complex password" and a "strong password"?

The terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to passwords that are difficult to guess or crack. A "complex password" typically specifies the inclusion of varied character types, while a "strong password" is a broader term encompassing length and unpredictability.

Why is using a "complex password" important?

A "complex password" significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts and data. Simple or easily guessed passwords are vulnerable to hacking attempts, potentially leading to identity theft or data breaches.