
This is called MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) and not only allows confirmation text messages to be sent, but also works with biometrics (Face ID & Touch ID) and even voice commands (although some of these methods are reserved for the Business plan). The app does all of its encryption locally, so LastPass never knows your master password, and the Premium tier also supports a form of two-factor authentication for another layer of security. The company places a strong emphasis on security, trumpeting the use of “AES 256-bit encryption with PBKDF2 SHA-256 and salted hashes to ensure complete security in the cloud.” LastPass is probably the best-known password manager, thanks to it being one of the original pioneers in the field. Luckily there are alternatives if you want a little more room to move.

So, it’s pretty much a manual solution for those who only use Apple devices and software. There are a few other areas where iCloud Keychain lacks flexibility, such as not helping you update passwords or telling you when they’ve been exposed in any security breaches. Even if you are using Apple devices, iCloud Keychain is only available through the Safari browser, so if you prefer to use Chrome, FireFox, or any other browser, you’ll have to painstakingly look up your Netflix password. If you have an Android phone or use a Windows PC, iCloud Keychain is redundant and you will need to find your password information up and enter it manually. However, one of the main disadvantages is that iCloud Keychain only works on Apple devices. So you can effortlessly go to sites, choose the item you want to buy, then complete the transaction in seconds and without needing to dredge your memory or fill in loads of text boxes first. It doesn’t just fill in passwords for you though: it also enters your logins, emails, credit card numbers and address details. It’s all tied to your Apple ID login and password and the Apple devices you have registered for two-factor authentication, plus everything is encrypted, so it should be secure.


It helps you to create secure passwords by generating them on your behalf, warns you if you reuse one or if a password is not secure, and, crucially, auto-fills your passwords when needed. ICloud Keychain is Apple’s own password management system and it is built into macOS and iOS.

There are lots of password managers available, but you may be wondering if you really need one, as Apple already includes a free one with your Mac.
