I love certain things for organizing physical items: clear stackable bins, shelving, and labels are tools that apply in just about every situation! It’s the same with digital organizing. There are some simply-must-have tools for digital organizing that I recommend anyone use to keep their computer neat and tidy.

A Password Manager

I can’t remember all of my passwords, can you? Making secure passwords requires capital letters, numbers, special characters, and sometimes a double-authentication PIN, too. And the amount of passwords we need—one for every site—means that trying to remember them is not only exhausting, it’s basically impossible. And what about when it’s time to update the password? A sticky note just can’t take care of it like it used to.

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Digital password managers save you brain power while allowing for more complicated, stronger passwords.

Google Chrome has a built-in password manager that keeps track of which password is for what, updates it on the fly when you need to change or reset, and opens with one master password. Apple’s Keychain has a similar process. These password managers are free, and come alongside Chrome or your Mac.

LastPass (LINK) is a paid service that can generate secure passwords and manage them, and it works on every browser and computer. It can store credit cards securely for when you want to shop online, too.

Backups

Using a backup means that if the unthinkable happens and your computer turns into a paperweight, you can still access the files that were on it. I advise that you backup not just your files, but your system as well. Backing up your system preserves the state of your computer, catching operating files, and programs that are critical to making the computer function.

Here is one method of backing up a Mac, and here is a guide for doing the same on a PC.

Where the backup is stored is also important. There are two main options:

Local: Having a backup stored locally, meaning whatever device your files are backed up on (like an external hard drive or thumb drive) is physically close to you. If you lose your files, you can get up and grab them from somewhere nearby. It also means that you know where your data are being kept.

Cloud: Storing a backup in the cloud, meaning your backup is stored somewhere off premises, and uses the internet to transfer files. This comes in handy in the event of a theft, fire, or natural disaster. You don’t need any equipment to store a backup in the cloud, because someone else is storing it for you. As long as you have an account and your password, you’ll be able to get your files back.

What tools for digital organizing do you use? Tell me in the comments below!

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