A password manager is part of every system these days, and anyone who doesn’t trust services like LastPass will quickly end up with open source tools like KeePass. But the original is not particularly chic and intuitive. KeePassXC, which has now appeared in a new version, does it better. An absolutely recommendable free program.
KeePass is the best-known free open source software for managing passwords and is a good choice for anyone looking for an alternative to services like LastPass & Co. The software’s shortcomings are usability and the old-fashioned look: Beginners in particular are often overwhelmed by the visually unappealing interface in combination with the many options.
KeePassXC, a fork of KeePassX, whose development has unfortunately been discontinued, does a better job. Both are based on the original KeePass with the key difference being that it only runs natively on Windows. In contrast, KeePassXC is platform-independent, i.e. it runs on Windows, macOS and Linux and can also be integrated directly into the browser if desired.
KeepPassXC even better
Now KeepPassXC is in Version 2.7.0 available and fixes a whopping 118 problems and brings numerous innovations. If you want to know exactly, check the changelog on GitHub. Important: With this version, only the 64-bit version is offered for Windows. If you’re still on the move with 32 bits, you’ll have to stay with the predecessor. The provider continues to provide the Win32 downloads.
New highlights are:
- Tagging of entries
- Fast unlocking via Windows Hello or Touch ID
- Autotyping improvement
- Attachments improvements
- Backend changes
- Support for KDBX 4.1
- Protection against screenshots
- Unlock via Apple Watch
Totally convinced KeepPassXC with extensive free features, such as a password generator or a connection to the Have I Been Pwned database, which warns of password leaks. With the big leap to version 2.6 came a major design update with dark and light themes, a compact mode for icons and the search box, and monochrome icon designs. In addition, it is now easier to add certain characters to the password generator. Also on board is a new backup function for password databases, which can be accessed via the “Databases” menu item.
LastPass Premium
Source: LastPass LastPass Premium
LastPass only works as a browser extension on Windows. Apart from an import glitch, LastPass shines in all areas with very good marks.
32.04 euros per year
to the provider
Enable browser integration
Most passwords are needed in the browser and there are several ways to get this started with KeePassXC. Direct integration into the browser is particularly convenient. Enabling the feature is simple. First you need to add the add-on to Firefox or Chrome. Then activate the browser integration in the KeePassXC settings. Now switch to the browser and click on the extension’s KeePassXC icon. In the window click on “Connect”, whereupon you have to enter a name for the connection, for example “Firefox KeePassXC”. That’s it.
If you now visit a page for which you have stored login data in KeePassXC, you will be asked whether you want to allow access to the data. You only have to confirm this once per page or you can deactivate this additional security function in the KeePassXC settings. After that, when you click on the login field, you will receive a dropdown menu in which you can select the appropriate entry.
If you register on a website in the future, KeePassXC will even offer you the option of generating a secure password and saving it directly. So you don’t have to worry about ever forgetting a password.
Use KeePass on the go: Android and iOS offshoots
In order to use the passwords on your smartphone as well, you need the right app. Simply place the database in a cloud service of your choice, such as Dropbox or Google Drive.
On Android, the selection of KeePass-compatible apps is significantly larger than on iOS. The most popular is probably the free Keepass2Android, which we have already presented in a separate article. The app offers a wide range of functions, synchronization and the option to have fields filled in automatically.
On iOS, KeePassium is worth a look. The app looks great, the password safe can be unlocked with Touch ID or Face ID, and Autofill is also available. The free version should be enough for most users, but there are more features for a fee, such as several password databases.
For complete protection: the best antivirus programs
If your PC is infected, even the best password manager is useless. To prevent this from happening, you can find the best antivirus programs in our list of the best.
AV Win in the test
McAfee Total Protection
Offer from BestCheck Protection (1.3)
performance (1,2)
False alarms (1.3)
Bitdefender Internet Security
Offer from BestCheck Protection (1.4)
performance (1,2)
False alarms (1,2)
Avast Free Antivirus
Offer from BestCheck Protection (1.2)
performance (1,2)
False alarms (2.3)
AVG Free Antivirus
Offer from BestCheck Protection (1.2)
performance (1,2)
False alarms (2.3)
VIPRE Advanced Security
Offer from BestCheck Protection (1.5)
Performance (1.6)
False alarms (1.1)