Norton Password Manager - Detailed Review
Privacy Tools
Norton Password Manager - Product Overview
Introduction to Norton Password Manager
Norton Password Manager is a practical and secure tool designed to help individuals manage their online credentials effectively. This password manager is part of the broader suite of security solutions offered by NortonLifeLock, a leading provider of cybersecurity products.
Primary Function
The primary function of Norton Password Manager is to create, store, and manage unique and complex passwords for various online accounts. It aims to simplify the process of remembering multiple passwords while enhancing the security of your online presence.
Target Audience
Norton Password Manager is targeted at a wide range of users, from individual consumers to those who need security solutions for their personal and professional lives. This includes anyone who wants to secure their online accounts with strong, unique passwords without the hassle of remembering them all.
Key Features
Here are some of the key features that make Norton Password Manager a reliable choice:
Encrypted Storage
Your data is stored in an encrypted online vault, protected by AES-256 encryption, one of the strongest encryption ciphers available. This ensures that your passwords and other sensitive information are highly secure.
Password Generator
The password generator creates complex passwords of up to 64 characters, including letters, mixed case, numbers, and punctuation. It also indicates the strength of the password and estimates the time it would take to crack it.
Auto-Fill
The auto-fill feature fills in your usernames, passwords, and credit card information with a single click, making it easier to log in to websites and apps.
Two-Factor Authentication
This feature adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification when you log in to your password vault.
Biometric Vault Unlock
You can use facial recognition, fingerprint readers, or other biometric methods to access your password vault, providing an additional layer of convenience and security.
Passwordless Vault Unlock
This feature allows you to unlock your vault on your computer using your mobile app, eliminating the need to enter your master password every time.
Safety Dashboard
The safety dashboard provides an overview of the strength of your passwords and gives you a safety score, helping you identify and improve weak passwords.
Cross-Device Sync
Your password vault can be synced and accessed across all your devices, including computers, tablets, and phones.
Norton Password Manager is free to use and also comes as part of various Norton security plans, offering additional security features such as antivirus protection, cloud backup, and more.
Norton Password Manager - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Norton Password Manager is designed to be simple, intuitive, and user-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of users.Interface Layout
The interface is cleanly organized, with a navigation panel on the right-hand side that provides easy access to all major options. This includes sections for logins, wallet, addresses, notes, a safety dashboard, settings, and a password generator. The layout is similar to what you might find in other stand-alone password managers, so if you’ve used one before, you’ll likely feel right at home.Ease of Use
Norton Password Manager is praised for its ease of use. The interface is straightforward, with clear and easy-to-find options. When you enter user credentials on a new website, the manager will prompt you to save the details in your protected vault, making it easy to add new logins without manual effort. The auto-save feature recognizes when you fill in a username and password on a website and automatically creates a new login form in the vault.Form Filling and Autofill
While the autofill feature works well for simple sign-ins requiring only an email and password, it has some limitations. It struggles to recognize and fill out more complex forms, such as address forms, despite having the relevant information stored in the vault. However, this is a common issue with many password managers, and other built-in form fillers like Microsoft Edge’s can sometimes fill in the gaps.Additional Features
The safety dashboard provides a clear overview of your passwords and their relative strengths, and there is a built-in password generator to help you create unique and secure passwords. The manager also supports two-factor authentication (2FA) through methods like mobile authenticator apps, USB security keys, and SMS, adding an extra layer of security to your account.Mobile App
The mobile app for Norton Password Manager is streamlined and secure. It integrates well with both Android and iOS devices, allowing for easy auto-filling of logins with biometric authentication. The app also features a mobile unlock option that lets you access your vault on desktop devices without needing your master password, simply by approving a notification on your mobile device.Overall User Experience
Overall, the user experience with Norton Password Manager is positive. The intuitive interface and automatic features make it easy to manage your passwords and other online credentials. While it may lack some of the more advanced features offered by premium competitors, it provides solid basic functionalities and strong security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption and a zero-knowledge policy.Conclusion
In summary, Norton Password Manager offers a user-friendly interface, easy-to-use features, and strong security options, making it a reliable choice for managing your passwords and online credentials. Norton Password Manager - Key Features and Functionality
Norton Password Manager
Norton Password Manager is a comprehensive tool designed to help you manage and secure your online credentials. Here are the main features and how they work:
Password Generator
The password generator is a key feature that creates complex, random passwords to enhance your online security. You can generate passwords up to 64 characters long, including letters, mixed case, numbers, and punctuation. The generator also indicates the strength of your chosen password using color codes (green for strong, orange for weak, and red for very weak) and estimates the time it would take to crack the password.
Form Filling and Autofill
Norton Password Manager includes an autofill feature that automatically fills in your login credentials, payment details, and shipping information when shopping online. This not only saves time but also prevents keyloggers from capturing your sensitive information.
Wallet
The wallet feature allows you to store and access your credit card and bank account information securely. This makes online payments easier and more secure by autofilling your financial details when needed.
Safety Dashboard
The Safety Dashboard is a tool that assesses the strength of your passwords and provides a safety score. It identifies weak, reused, and old passwords and prompts you to update them for better security. This feature categorizes passwords into weak, duplicate, and old, making it easy to address security issues.
Passwordless Vault Unlock
This feature allows you to unlock your password vault on a desktop browser by approving a notification on your mobile device. This can be more convenient but also has security implications to consider.
Biometric Unlock
Norton Password Manager supports biometric authentication, such as fingerprint readers on Android devices or Touch ID/Face ID on iOS devices. This allows you to access your vault quickly and securely using biometric data.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
The password manager offers 2FA options, including mobile authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, USB security keys like YubiKey, and SMS verification. This adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a second form of verification before granting access.
Zero-Knowledge Encryption
Norton uses AES-256-bit encryption to protect your passwords and sensitive information. This encryption is virtually unbreakable, and the zero-knowledge principle ensures that only you can access your password vault, as Norton does not store your vault password on its servers.
Syncing Across Devices
Your entire password vault can be synced and accessed across all your devices, ensuring that your information is always up-to-date and available wherever you need it.
Auto Change
The Auto Change feature, part of the Safety Dashboard, automatically updates and saves changed passwords for supported websites. This saves time and effort by handling password changes for you on compatible sites like Netflix, PayPal, and Spotify.
Security Measures
In addition to encryption and 2FA, Norton Password Manager employs a Captcha mechanism to prevent automated brute-force attacks and a challenge mechanism that requires you to enter your vault password before transferring any encrypted data from the server.
While Norton Password Manager does not heavily integrate AI in its core functions as described, it does provide a set of automated features like the password generator, autofill, and Auto Change, which simplify and enhance password management. These features help in maintaining strong, unique passwords and ensuring your online security without the need for manual intervention in many cases.
Norton Password Manager - Performance and Accuracy
Performance of Norton Password Manager
Norton Password Manager performs well in several key areas, but it also has some limitations and areas that need improvement.User Interface and Ease of Use
The interface of Norton Password Manager is clean and organized, making it easy to use, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. It runs as a browser extension and has separate sections for logins, wallet, addresses, and notes, keeping all your personal details well-organized.Password Generation and Auto-Fill
The password generator is a useful feature, allowing you to create highly customizable and secure passwords. However, it has some drawbacks: it is not accessible directly from the browser extension, requiring you to open a new tab, and it does not save your preferred settings, so you need to adjust them every time you generate a new password.Auto-Change Feature
Norton Password Manager includes an Autochange feature that can update passwords with just one click, but this feature is not always reliable, working only about half the time in testing. This inconsistency may be due to the website’s architecture rather than the password manager itself.Cross-Platform Support
The manager supports cross-platform functionality, allowing you to sync your passwords across different devices. However, the sync process, while generally automatic, can sometimes be cumbersome, especially on Android devices.Accuracy and Security
Encryption and Security Protocols
Norton Password Manager uses strong security features, including 256-bit AES encryption and TLS secure connections. The zero-knowledge policy ensures that only you can access your password vault, and two-factor authentication (2FA) is available through mobile authenticator apps, SMS, and USB security keys.Password Health Metrics
The manager provides basic metrics on your passwords, such as identifying weak, duplicate, and old passwords. However, it does not offer information on whether your email addresses and passwords have been part of a data breach.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Support
One of the significant limitations is the poor support provided by Norton. The support site lacks detailed documentation specific to the password manager, and the live chat support is not well-trained on the product.Advanced Features
Norton Password Manager lacks some advanced features available in paid competitors, such as password sharing, customizable sub-folders, and a built-in TOTP authenticator. These features would enhance the overall value of the product.Form Filling
The form-filling feature works well for basic usernames and passwords but struggles with more complicated forms, which is an area where competitors like LastPass perform better.Importing Passwords
The process of importing passwords from other managers is frustrating and time-consuming. Users often find it easier to let Norton Password Manager capture logins manually rather than using the import tool. In summary, while Norton Password Manager is a solid free option with good security features and ease of use, it falls short in terms of advanced features, support, and some functional aspects like password import and form filling. Norton Password Manager - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure for Norton Password Manager
Free Plan
Norton Password Manager is available completely free of charge. You do not need to subscribe to any of Norton’s plans to use this service.Features of the Free Plan
Despite being free, Norton Password Manager offers several valuable features, including:- Unlimited password storage
- Unlimited device syncing
- 256-bit AES encryption and TLS encryption
- Zero-knowledge privacy and client-side encryption
- Secure notes, digital wallet, and identity storage
- Password generator and password changer
- Safety dashboard for auditing your passwords
- Autosave and autofill features
- Biometric login for mobile users
- Two-factor authentication (2FA)
Bundled with Norton 360 Plans
While the password manager itself is free, it is also included in all of Norton’s 360 internet security plans. These plans start from €14.99 per year and offer additional features such as real-time malware scanning, parental controls, anti-phishing protection, and more.No Premium Tiers
Unlike some other password managers, Norton Password Manager does not have multiple tiers or premium plans. The free version includes all the essential features, making it a straightforward and cost-effective option.Limitations
It’s worth noting that Norton Password Manager lacks some features available in premium password managers, such as password sharing between users and advanced form-filling tools. However, for basic and reliable password management, the free version is more than sufficient. Norton Password Manager - Integration and Compatibility
Integration and Compatibility
Norton Password Manager integrates and functions across a variety of platforms and devices, though there are some limitations and specific requirements to be aware of.Browser Compatibility
Norton Password Manager is highly compatible with major web browsers, including Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari, and Brave. It operates primarily as a browser extension, which makes setup relatively straightforward and ensures it works seamlessly across these platforms.Mobile Devices
The password manager has dedicated apps for both iOS and Android devices. These mobile apps allow users to access and manage their password vaults, and they also enable features like biometric login using Touch ID, Face ID, or fingerprint recognition on mobile devices.Cross-Device Syncing
Norton Password Manager syncs data across all your devices, whether you are using a desktop browser extension or the mobile app. This ensures that your passwords, credit card information, and other data are accessible and up-to-date on all your devices. However, it is important to note that you must be signed in to the Norton Password Manager and have a mobile device with the app installed to access your vault on desktop devices.Passwordless Vault Unlock
One of the convenient features is the ability to unlock your password vault on your desktop without entering your master password. You can do this by approving a notification sent to your mobile device, which adds a layer of convenience but also raises some security considerations.Two-Factor Authentication
Norton Password Manager supports two-factor authentication (2FA) through various methods, including mobile authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, USB security keys such as YubiKey, and SMS. These 2FA options are configured through your Norton account and add an extra layer of security to your password vault.Limitations
While Norton Password Manager is widely compatible, it lacks a dedicated desktop app for Windows or macOS, which might be a drawback for some users. Additionally, importing passwords from other vaults or browsers can be challenging, as it only accepts imports from a limited number of sources and does not support .CSV files exported from major browsers.Customer Support and Additional Features
Norton provides comprehensive customer support through phone, help center, community forum, and 24/7 live chat. For users who opt for the Norton 360 subscription, additional features like Dark Web Monitoring and a VPN are also available.Conclusion
In summary, Norton Password Manager offers good integration and compatibility across major browsers and mobile devices, but it has some limitations in terms of desktop app availability and password import capabilities. Norton Password Manager - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Options
Customer Support Channels
- 24/7 Live Chat: Users can access live chat support directly from the Norton website. This service initially starts with a chatbot, but human agents are quickly available when needed.
- Phone Support: Norton provides phone support, which can be reached at 844-488-4540. This is a convenient option for users who prefer to speak directly with a support agent.
- Community Forum: Norton has a community forum where users can ask questions, share experiences, and get help from other users and Norton support staff.
Knowledge Base and FAQs
- Norton maintains a comprehensive knowledge base and FAQ section on its main support page. This resource includes detailed articles and step-by-step guides to help users resolve common issues and understand the features of the password manager.
Additional Resources
- Installation and Activation Help: Users can find guidance on installing and activating Norton Password Manager, as well as other Norton products, through the official support website.
- Security Tips and Alerts: Norton provides information on common scams and crimes, along with useful tips to help prevent users from being victimized. This includes advice on online safety and how to protect personal information.
Device and Feature Support
- The support resources also cover device compatibility, explaining how to use Norton Password Manager on various devices, including PCs, Macs, tablets, and phones. Additionally, there is support for browser extensions on mainstream browsers like Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge, and Brave.
By leveraging these support options and resources, users of Norton Password Manager can effectively manage their passwords and ensure their online security with minimal hassle.
Norton Password Manager - Pros and Cons
Pros of Norton Password Manager
Free and Accessible
Norton Password Manager is available for free, making it a cost-effective option for managing your passwords. It can be downloaded and used on various devices, including Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, Linux, and ChromeOS.
Strong Security Features
The manager uses unbreakable 256-bit AES encryption and a zero-knowledge policy, ensuring your data is highly secure. It also supports two-factor authentication (2FA) and biometric login options like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning.
User-Friendly Interface
Norton Password Manager has a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy to set up and use. It includes features like auto-fill for usernames, passwords, and credit card information, which simplifies the login process.
Password Generator and Auditor
The tool comes with a password generator that helps you create strong, complex passwords. Additionally, it includes a password vault auditing feature to identify weak or duplicate passwords.
Cross-Device Syncing
Your passwords and other credentials are synced across all your devices, ensuring you can access them conveniently from anywhere.
Advanced 2FA Support
Although it lacks some advanced features, Norton Password Manager supports advanced 2FA tools, including mobile authenticator apps and USB security keys.
Cons of Norton Password Manager
Limited Advanced Features
Compared to competitors like 1Password or Dashlane, Norton Password Manager lacks several advanced features. These include password sharing between users, a built-in TOTP (Time-Based One-Time Password) authenticator, extensive account recovery options, and complex form-filling tools.
No Password Sharing
The absence of password sharing capabilities can be a significant drawback for users who need to share passwords securely with others.
No Built-in TOTP Authenticator
Norton does not offer a built-in TOTP authenticator, which is a feature many users rely on for additional security.
Account Recovery Limitations
If you forget your master password, recovering your account can be challenging, as there are limited recovery options available.
Password Generator Limitations
While the password generator is useful, it requires you to open a new tab to generate passwords and does not remember your settings, which can be inconvenient.
Overall, Norton Password Manager is a solid choice for basic password management needs, offering strong security and ease of use, but it falls short in terms of advanced features compared to some of its competitors.
Norton Password Manager - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing Norton Password Manager to its competitors
When comparing Norton Password Manager to its competitors in the password management category, there are several key points to consider:
Security Features
Norton Password Manager offers strong security features, including 256-bit AES encryption and a zero-knowledge policy, which ensures that only you can access your password vault.
- However, competitors like Dashlane and Keeper provide additional security features such as live dark web monitoring and secure VPNs, which Norton does not include in its standalone password manager but does offer through its broader 360 security package.
User Experience
Norton Password Manager is praised for its user-friendly interface and ease of use. It has a slight edge in user experience (UX) compared to Dashlane, making it more accessible for those who are new to password managers.
Features and Functionality
Norton Password Manager includes essential features like unlimited password storage, a password generator, password vault auditing, biometric login for mobile users, two-factor authentication (2FA), and an automatic password changer. However, it lacks advanced features such as password sharing between users, a built-in TOTP authenticator, and extensive account recovery options, which are available in competitors like 1Password and Dashlane.
Platform Compatibility
While Norton Password Manager is available on major platforms including Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, Linux, and ChromeOS, Dashlane has broader compatibility and supports more platforms.
Pricing
One of the significant advantages of Norton Password Manager is that it is completely free, either as a standalone download or included with Norton’s 360 internet security plans. This contrasts with many competitors that offer limited free versions or require subscriptions for full features. For example, Bitwarden offers a free version with unlimited syncing, but its premium features require a subscription.
Additional Features
- Dashlane: Offers more comprehensive features including bulk password changing, secure VPN, and live dark web monitoring. It also has better form-filling capabilities and more extensive 2FA options.
- Keeper: Provides features like offline mode, role-based access control, and add-ons for cloud storage and dark-web monitoring, making it a strong option for businesses and individuals seeking advanced security.
- 1Password: Known for its Travel Mode, masked email addresses, and real-time threat monitoring. It offers a more extensive set of features, including better password health reporting and user access management.
- Bitwarden: Offers a highly regarded free version with unlimited syncing and strong security features. It also provides emergency access and security monitoring in its premium plans.
Unique Features of Norton Password Manager
- Mobile Unlock Feature: Allows users to unlock their vault on desktop without a master password by approving a notification on their mobile device.
- Biometric Login: Available through the mobile app, and users can reset their master password using biometric authentication if it is enabled.
- Recovery Keys: Users can create and download recovery keys as a PDF file, which can be useful in case of master password loss.
Conclusion
In summary, while Norton Password Manager is a solid choice for basic password management needs and is free, it may not offer the same level of advanced features and security options as some of its competitors. If you are already within the Norton security ecosystem or prefer a simple, free solution, Norton Password Manager could be a good fit. However, if you need more extensive features, you might want to consider alternatives like Dashlane, Keeper, or 1Password.
Norton Password Manager - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Norton Password Manager
Is Norton Password Manager free to use?
Yes, Norton Password Manager is available for free. You can download it as a mobile app for Android and iOS, and it is also available as a browser extension for Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge. It is also included for free with all of Norton’s 360 internet security plans.
Is Norton Password Manager safe?
Yes, Norton Password Manager is completely safe. It uses 256-bit AES encryption, which is virtually unbreakable, and follows a zero-knowledge policy. This means that your data is encrypted and decrypted locally on your device with your master password, and Norton cannot access your information.
Does Norton Password Manager sync across devices?
Yes, Norton Password Manager synchronizes your passwords across your devices. If you sign in to the same Norton account, your passwords will be accessible on all your connected devices, including computers, tablets, and phones.
What security features does Norton Password Manager offer?
Norton Password Manager includes several security features:
- 256-bit AES encryption: Your data is encrypted to ensure it remains secure.
- Zero-knowledge policy: Only you can access your password vault; not even Norton can access it.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security using mobile authenticator apps, SMS, or USB security keys.
- Biometric unlock: You can use Touch ID or Face ID on iOS devices or fingerprint authentication on Android devices to access your vault.
- Password generator: Creates complex, unique passwords for your online accounts.
Does Norton Password Manager have a password generator?
Yes, Norton Password Manager includes a built-in password generator. This tool helps you create strong, complex passwords by allowing you to select the number of characters and the inclusion of letters, mixed case, numbers, and punctuation.
Can I use biometric authentication with Norton Password Manager?
Yes, you can use biometric authentication to access your password vault. On iOS devices, you can use Touch ID or Face ID, and on Android devices, you can use fingerprint authentication. Additionally, you can use biometric authentication to reset your master password if you have it set up on your mobile device.
Does Norton Password Manager offer automatic password filling?
Yes, Norton Password Manager has an auto-fill feature that retrieves and fills in your usernames, passwords, and credit card information with a single tap. This makes logging in to websites and apps smoother and more convenient.
Can I reset my master password if I forget it?
If you forget your master password, you can reset it using biometric authentication on your mobile device if it is set up beforehand. However, if you haven’t enabled biometric authentication, you may lose access to your password vault. You can also create and download recovery keys as a PDF file to help in such situations.
Does Norton Password Manager work on multiple operating systems?
Yes, Norton Password Manager is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It also has browser extensions for Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge.
Does Norton Password Manager offer password vault auditing?
Yes, Norton Password Manager includes a feature to audit your password vault. It checks the strength of your passwords and prompts you to update weak passwords, helping you maintain stronger security for your online accounts.
Can I access my password vault on my desktop without a master password?
Yes, Norton Password Manager offers a feature where you can unlock your vault on your desktop without typing in your master password. You can use your mobile app to approve a notification sent to your phone, allowing you to log in to your vault on your desktop device.