In September 2024, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) unveiled a game-changing update to its Digital Identity Guidelines, offering a fresh approach to password security with a new set of recommendations for businesses. These recommendations focus on usability, password length and modern threat defenses, reflecting the evolving cyber risks of the modern world. Where before complexity rules and frequent resets typified the password security experience, today, the focus shifts to creating more user-friendly strategies that enhance protection without burdening employees.
Whether you run a small business or a global enterprise, these IT best practices for businesses in 2025 will help keep your network and critical information safe. Read on to explore four of the key password security measures you need to implement now to stay ahead of cyber threats.
1.) Focus on Length Over Complexity
The days of cramming special characters, numbers and uppercase letters in your passwords are gone. NIST has flipped the script with the latest guidance putting the spotlight on password length rather than complexity. It turns out that password length is the key to security and longer, memorable phrases are far tougher for hackers to crack than short, complex passwords. Why? It’s all about the math. Longer passwords simply create more possible combinations than shorter passwords, making them harder for even the most advanced hackers to crack. So, go ahead and change “P@ssw0rd!” to a longer phrase that’s a little easier to remember. Just remember to think big when it comes to your passwords.
2.) Keep Passwords that Work
Old guidelines say that you should change your password every 60 to 90 days, but the 2025 NIST guidelines suggest ditching forced password resets unless there’s clear evidence of a breach. While this may seem counterintuitive, the reason is that routine password changes lead to user fatigue and bad habits, like slightly tweaking old passwords rather than thinking of something completely new. For example, “Password1” becomes “Password2” – not very helpful from a security standpoint. Frequent password changes can also make passwords hard to remember, leading to users writing them down where they shouldn’t be.
Instead of holding on to frequent and regular password changes, focus on smarter strategies, like monitoring for security breaches and changing passwords when they’re compromised, not when the calendar says to. This strategy is a win-win for everyone as it’s less hassle for users and leads to stronger security overall.
3.) Blocklist Bad Passwords
One of the most significant changes to the 2025 NIST guidelines is the recommendation to implement password blocklists. This proactive measure is designed to stop users from choosing weak, predictable passwords or compromised passwords. Research has shown that many users create simple, predictable passwords or re-use old passwords, many of which have previously been compromised in data breaches. That makes them an easy target for hackers, leading to big problems in the future.
To avoid situations like these, NIST recommends blocking any commonly used or breached passwords altogether with a password blocklist. A password blocklist works by not only identifying and preventing commonly used or compromised passwords but also by blocking users from choosing those passwords in the future. For example, if a user tries to use “Password1” or a password that has been flagged in a breach database, the password blocklist will automatically reject it.
By implementing a password blocklist, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of weak passwords. The password blocklist will automatically push users toward choosing stronger, more secure password options without any monitoring from an IT person. These simple but powerful step helps fortify security and protect sensitive data from cyber threats.
4.) Adopt Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Strong passwords alone aren’t enough to keep cyber threats at bay. The National Institute of Standards and Technology also recommends using multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring more than just a password to access an account. The two-step system requires users to input something they know (like a password) and then something they have (like a code sent to a phone) or something they are (like a fingerprint or face ID). With multi-factor authentication, even if a hacker does figure out your password, they’ll run into a dead end when they can’t produce the second factor. This simple security upgrade delivers powerful results.
5.) Use a Password Manager
Since you’re supposed to use a different password for every website or login, you’ll quickly accumulate more passwords than you can feasibly remember. To fix this, NIST recommends using a password manager. These tools generate and store strong passwords, preventing passwords from being re-used and keeping users from having to write down passwords.
Password managers make it easy to maintain robust security practices while maximizing usability. A good password manager can easily handle complex passwords and will generate longer passwords than many users would choose on their own. The randomly generated, high-complexity passwords make it nearly impossible for hackers to get in.
As cyber threats evolve, password practices must evolve too. Weak passwords and outdated security measures can leave businesses vulnerable to attacks, but by embracing NIST’s updated password security guidelines for 2025, organizations can take a proactive approach to strengthen defenses without overburdening users.
The 2025 NIST password guidelines prioritize smarter security by choosing longer passwords and implementing multi-factor authentication. These guidelines not only improve security but also help reduce the frustration users experience that can lead to risky habits like reusing old passwords or writing down passwords. By making strong security more accessible for employees, businesses can enjoy better compliance and stronger protection across the board. When you need to secure sensitive company data, use NIST’s guidelines as a blueprint for navigating the modern cybersecurity landscape. Rethink password security today and make smarter choices for a safer digital future.