# Passphrase generator

> A passphrase is a password made of random words, like “maple-orbit-tundra-crisp-velvet”. Five words picked at random from a list of 7,772 give about 64 bits of strength, and they are much easier to type and remember than random characters.

This tool runs in the browser at /passphrase-generator/; nothing it makes is sent to the server.

## Why random words work

The strength comes from the computer picking the words, not from the words being clever. Each word from a list of 7,772 adds almost 13 bits. Five words give about 64 bits, six about 77 bits.

Words you choose yourself, like song lyrics or a favourite quote, are far weaker, because people pick predictable phrases.

## When to use a passphrase

Use one for passwords you have to type by hand: your password manager’s main password, your computer login, or a Wi-Fi network guests need to type in.

## Word list

The English words come from the EFF large word list (CC BY 3.0), made for exactly this purpose. Everything happens in your browser; the passphrase is never sent anywhere unless you put it in a temp.cool link.