How to Install a Password Manager on Google Chrome

I have written before on why I think you should use a password manager.

Follow the steps below to install a password manager on Google Chrome.
The steps should be similar for other browsers.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome

1. Launch the Google Chrome browser on your computer.

Step 2: Go to the Chrome Web Store

1. In the Chrome address bar, type https://chrome.google.com/webstore and press Enter.

You could also click the Extensions icon,

then click Manage extensions,

then click Chrome Web Store.

• This will open the Chrome Web Store, where you can find extensions for Chrome.

Step 3: Search for a Password Manager

1. In the search bar at the top of the Chrome Web Store, start typing the name of the password manager you want to install (e.g. Bitwarden, ProtonPass, etc.) and press Enter.
   • If you don’t have a specific one in mind, you can search for “password manager” to see a variety of options.

Step 4: Select the Password Manager Extension

1. Look through the results and find the password manager you want to install.
   • Make sure it’s the official version by checking the publisher’s name (e.g. “Bitwarden Inc.” for Bitwarden or “Proton AG” for ProtonPass).
   • Read the ratings and reviews to confirm that the extension is reliable and widely used.

Step 5: Add the Extension to Chrome

1. Click on the password manager extension’s name to open its details page.
2. On the details page, click the “Add to Chrome” button (usually a blue button near the top-right corner).

Step 6: Confirm Installation

1. A pop-up will appear asking if you want to add the extension. It will show the permissions the extension requires (e.g. “Read and change data on websites you visit”).
2. If you’re comfortable with the permissions, click “Add Extension” to proceed.

Step 7: Wait for the Installation

1. Chrome will automatically download and install the extension.
2. Once installed, a message will appear telling you that the extension has been installed.

You might see the password manager’s icon appear in the top-right corner of the browser, next to the address bar.

Step 8: Pin the Extension

This step is optional but will make it easier to use the extension.

1. Click the Extensions icon once again
2. Scroll down the list of extensions to the one you have just installed. They should be listed in alphabetical order.
3. Click the Pin icon to have the extension’s icon pinned to your browser toolbar. This will make it more easily accessible.

Step 9: Set Up the Password Manager

1. Click on the password manager’s icon in the Chrome toolbar.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to:
   • Sign up for a new account (if you don’t already have one).
   • Log in to your existing account (if you already use the password manager).

Configure the Extension for a smoother, more secure experience

• Keep your master password secure: This is the key to all your saved passwords. Use a strong, unique password that you can remember.
• Enable two-factor authentication: If the password manager supports it, enable this for added security.
• Update regularly: Ensure both the Chrome browser and the extension stay up-to-date to receive the latest security updates.
• Enable autofill: Set the manager to fill in usernames and passwords for you (if it has them) when you go to a login page.

Start Using the Password Manager

When you visit a website where you have an account:

• If you already have the password saved, the password manager should auto-fill your login information.
• If the password is not already saved, the password manager should prompt you to save it when you log in to the website.