# Secure Your Data

Now that you’re using 1Password to be more careful with your personal data, be sure to completely secure it all with a good Master Password so that only you can access it.

## Use a Strong Master Password

All the information you store in 1Password is encrypted with the Master Password you create the first time you run it. We use extremely strong AES 128-bit CBC encryption with PBDKF2, but the strength of this encryption is dependent on the strength of your Master Password.

Be sure not to use a password that is easily guessed, such as a dictionary word or a simple “algorithm” like replacing O’s and I’s with 0’s and 1’s. These types of passwords are easy to crack and therefore must be avoided. Generally speaking, the longer your password is, the better. Be sure to select a password that is at least eight characters long and increase its length depending on your security needs.

## Change your Master Password

If you used a basic password for your Master Password, such as your pet’s name, your anniversary, or even an obscure word, we recommend changing it to something more complicated. Something you can commit to memory, but something that is harder for inquisitive coworkers or malicious hackers to guess. You can do this by opening 1Password, unlocking it, then going to the 1Password > Preferences menu option and clicking the Security pane. There you will see a “Change Master Password…” button that will let you do exactly that.

## Automatically Lock Your Data File

By default, the 1Password data file will automatically lock after 20 minutes of inactivity and when your Mac sleeps. You can customize these settings in 1Password > Preferences > Security.

## Back Up Your Data

Often the biggest threat to our data is not theft but damage or loss. It is important to regularly back up your 1Password data, stored in Home > Library > Application Support > 1Password.agilekeychain.

1Password will automatically create a Backups folder next to this file and periodically copy your data file there as a backup. While this is helpful in the event of accidental file deletion, it is important that you also back up your data file to a remote disk in case of disk failure or theft.

## You Are Now an Expert!

Congratulations! You made it to the end! You are now a Yellow Belt expert and ready to use 1Password.

If you want to make it to the Black Belt level, further training is available in the Features and Tutorials sections.

## Next steps: Features and Tutorials