The End of Passwords

If you feel burnt out by endless passwords, security alerts, and authentication codes, you’re not alone. It can feel like the rules for staying safe online are constantly changing. In this episode, Wirecutter writer Max Eddy, who covers online privacy and security, demystifies modern password hygiene. Max breaks down why reusing passwords leaves your accounts vulnerable and how a password manager can lighten your cognitive load. He also explains why passkeys—a new technology—may finally render passwords obsolete. Plus, discover practical, stress-free tips to upgrade your online security step-by-step and protect your devices on the go. This episode covers: Password managers 101: Why dedicated tools like 1Password and Bitwarden make online safety seamless, reducing cognitive fatigue and automatically generating complex logins. Understanding two-factor authentication: What two-factor authentication (2FA) actually protects, how to use backup codes, and why authenticator apps outperform text message (SMS) codes. The promise of passkeys: How this emerging password-free technology works, why tech giants are adopting it, and how it protects your accounts even during data breaches. Practical security habits: Simple, high-priority actions to secure your personal email, safely share passwords with family, and safeguard your devices when traveling. Products we recommend: The best password manager: 1Password The best free password manager: Bitwarden Additional reading: Passkeys Are the New Passwords. You Should Start Using Them Now. I’m a Security Expert. I Don’t Know Any of My Passwords. I Tried, and Failed, to Disappear From the Internet The 2 Best Password Managers of 2026 The 2 Best Two-Factor Authentication Apps of 2026 The 2 Best Security Key for Multi-Factor Authentication of 2026 We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and Website Instagram: /wirecutter Threads: /@wirecutter Twitter: /wirecutter Facebook: /thewirecutter TikTok: /wirecutter LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/ Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.