How frequently should you ideally change your passwords for better security?

Changing passwords regularly is a crucial part of maintaining security in information systems. The recommendation to change passwords every 60 to 90 days strikes an effective balance between usability and security. This timeframe allows users to manage their passwords without becoming overwhelmed, while also reducing the risk of unauthorized access if a password has been compromised.

Password fatigue can set in with more frequent changes, leading to weaker password practices, such as writing down passwords or using easily guessed variations. However, extending the change period to 6 months or even a year increases the risk of a password being compromised over time, especially if the same password is used across multiple accounts. By adhering to the 60 to 90-day interval, users ensure that even if a password has been exposed, the window of opportunity for an attacker to misuse it is significantly limited.

Therefore, the timeframe of every 60 to 90 days is deemed optimal, aligning with best practices for cybersecurity.