Lesson 4 / 24
How 1Password Protects You
Explain end-to-end encryption, the master password and the Secret Key, and why the Emergency Kit matters.
Two secrets, not one
1Password encrypts your data on your device before it syncs. To unlock an account you need your master password (that you remember) and a Secret Key (a long random value stored on your devices). Even if the server were breached, attackers get only encrypted data.
One key unlocks the vault
Your master password and Secret Key unlock an encrypted vault; the service never sees your plain data.
Save the Emergency Kit
The Emergency Kit is a PDF with your Secret Key. Print it and store it somewhere safe, such as a locked drawer. 1Password cannot recover your master password for you, so losing both can lock you out for good.
A bank locker
A bank locker needs two keys: yours and the bank's. Neither alone opens it. Your master password and Secret Key work as a pair in the same way.
Quick check: What is the Secret Key in 1Password?
- Your email address
- A random value that works with the master password to unlock the account
- A password for Wi-Fi
- A backup of every item in plain text
Answer
A random value that works with the master password to unlock the account — It is added to the master password so a stolen database cannot be cracked by guessing the password alone.