What does a strong password typically include?

Prepare for the Department of Defense Cyber Awareness Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Ready yourself for success!

A strong password is characterized by a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. This diversity increases the complexity of the password, making it much more difficult for unauthorized users to guess or crack using brute force methods. Strong passwords typically include uppercase and lowercase letters, numeric characters, and special symbols, which together create a more robust defense against cyber threats.

The inclusion of various character types helps ensure that the password has a higher degree of entropy, meaning it has a larger range of potential combinations. This is essential in mitigating risks associated with password attacks, such as dictionary attacks or social engineering techniques, where common words or easily guessable passwords are often used.

Utilizing a combination of elements not only strengthens the password's security but also encourages users to create unique passwords for different accounts, thereby reducing the risk associated with password reuse. This practice is crucial in maintaining good cybersecurity hygiene and protecting sensitive information from potential breaches.

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