Your password is the first line of defense for your online data, regardless of its type. Best practices suggest using a different password for each website and using long, complex passwords with random character strings. Needless to say, that's a lot to remember, and many people skip this part and use only a handful of passwords for all their accounts. That method might be easier, but it leaves you open to unwanted access. Just think: if someone obtained your email password, they might then go on to try the same combination on PayPal. If you don't have a different login, then someone just gained access to your finances.

Thankfully, numerous password managers generate random passwords, all while you only need to remember a single one. Applications like OnePass, BitWarden, and others are all great tools for tracking multiple credentials, but what if I told you there was one option that not only did the same as those, but was completely free, self-hosted, and available on a host of platforms? Passbolt is an oft-overlooked option, but it's one you should consider for your digital security.

5 Passbolt can be hosted nearly anywhere

Self-hosting means you control all access

Passbolt is a self-hosted application (although you can sign up for Passbolt Cloud if you don't want to manage it yourself), and that means you have extreme control over how your data is handled. Only you or someone you authorize can view the information stored within, and it can be installed on a wide range of platforms, including Debian 12, Ubuntu, Raspberry Pi, Docker, and DigitalOcean. A full list of compatible downloads can be found on Passbolt's documentation site, along with more information on how to install it.

Because there is absolutely no reliance on third-party servers, you have full power over access. You can also customize Passbolt to fit your specific needs, whether you're using it to manage your personal passwords or for team security.

4 Passbolt is based in Europe

And that means full GDPR Compliance

The European Union's General Data Protection Regulation is a set of data protection laws that are far more exhaustive than anything available in the United States, and as Passbolt is based in Luxembourg, it is subject to the GDPR. If you're concerned about data privacy, using a European-based application, open-source or not, is an easy way to ensure it uses the most stringent security guidelines. By its own admission, Passbolt will "prioritize security even if that means delaying more visible or popular work" and describes itself as a "security-first, privacy-centric" application.

3 Passbolt utilizes a unique approach to security

It's unlike anything the competition uses

In addition to using E2E encryption, Passbolt also requires multifactor authentication through the use of a custom, private passphrase and key. You set the passphrase and the three-character key, as well as the background color of the key. This allows you to verify the request comes from Passbolt at a glance, and you can even layer more MFA options on for greater security. This differs from other options that only require a single master password and makes Passbolt nearly invulnerable to brute force attacks.

If that wasn't enough, the application also individually encrypts each password for "containerised" data privacy. That means that if a password is compromised somehow, it's the only one. The loss of that password won't reveal any other account information. Oh, and if you do get locked out, Passbolt offers admin-controlled recovery mechanisms that allow you back into your account, provided you give the right verification.

2 You can securely share passwords with other people

Say goodbye to irritating phone calls

If you've ever tried to tell someone a password over the phone, especially a password that uses a lot of random characters, it can be absolutely infuriating. "Did you say 'o' or zero? Was that 'T' as in tiger or 'P' as in porpoise?" The longer the password, the more potential for confusion. Passbolt removes that frustration by allowing you to share individual passwords with other users, provided they're also on Passbolt. It also allows you to change permissions so that the person can only use the password for instances you've outlined.

1 Passbolt is free, but even the paid version is affordable

No staggering fees here

Passbolt offers three tiers to choose from: Community, Business, and Enterprise. The Community level offers a huge level of control at no cost, and is perfectly adequate for most users. The Business tier starts at $49 per month for 10 users and increases from there. Additionally, it offers a free trial, allowing you to explore its features and tools firsthand. The Enterprise level doesn't list a price, but is designed for high-end usage with large teams and requires a custom quote.

If you opt for the cloud-managed version, there are only two tiers: Business and Enterprise. Business starts at $54 per month for ten users, with an additional cost of $5.40 per month per user. You pay this as you go. Enterprise once more asks interested parties to talk to the sales team, as it needs a custom quote based on intended use. The cloud-managed option might be slightly more, but it makes it so users can skip any complicated setup processes.

Passbolt offers more robust security at no cost

Passbolt's comprehensive suite of tools and numerous security features make it a fantastic choice for those who want complete control over their online privacy, whether you're using it for personal use or managing a small business. You can also use it to manage your family's passwords and ensure everyone in your household uses proper data security practices.