Stop trying to remember computer passwords. Remembering is obsolete. Typing a username is obsolete. Typing a password is obsolete. Remembering answers to security questions is obsolete. Copy and paste... those details from a free for use (via GNU Public License) and safe computer program (proven via the Open Source Initiative software, meaning the source code is available for review), that is simple to use. This book describes how to safely obtain and use the free and open source password manager KeePass for use in creating, storing and using computer passwords. The features of KeePass are explained, and include the ability to never again type a user id or password, since both can be copy and pasted from KeePass into sites that need them. Also discussed is the ability to add notes or comments to any password, allowing users to write down security questions and answers for sites they use. Note that security answers do not have to be actual facts - consistency is needed. Whomever may need to verify your account checks the answer you gave when you established an account to what you tell them when you need their help - they do not really need to know your first car, your mothers maiden name, or the name of your first dog. (Feel free to name your first dog whatever you want - that name will not be your security answer for the rest of your life.) Topics include the need for multiple complex passwords, how to organize multiple complex passwords, creation of a complex passphrase (the one password you need to remember), safely obtaining, installing and configuring KeePass, how to safely use KeePass, and how to use hashing algorithms to ensure files transmitted across the internet have not been tampered with (using checksum utilities). Written for the curious computer user that reads carefully, this book includes concise explanations of password security basics (password length, password complexity) with examples including calculating times to "match the hash" for passwords of varied length and complexity. Abbreviated instructions are included as Appendix A allowing the computer savvy to begin using KeePass immediately (a 2 page summary of the book), while Appendix B (a 4 page summary) expands the detail of how to use KeePass safely for those users that need a bit more detail. Appendix C shows how to use hashes to verify files are unchanged after downloading them. Note that there are 27 screenshots showing files, buttons to push, settings, etc. so if you use an electronic device smaller than an iPad to read the book, it needs to be able to expand the screenshots for readability. If your "reader" has a small screen, you may want to download another reader to allow a larger screen (iPad, or computer screen) to see the pictures clearly, or go with the hard copy book. Revision 2 of this book corrects typos found in the original printing.
