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Keeper vs LastPass: Which password manager is better for your business?
Password manager software helps users store and organize password information. A password manager typically stores users’ passwords in an encrypted database, which authorized users can unlock with a master password or key. Many password managers also offer additional features, such as randomized password generation, password sharing, and two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA).
While password manager software can be extremely helpful in managing the complexities of individual and group passwords, it is crucial to choose a reputable program that meets organizational needs. There are many options to choose from, and two of the most popular password managers are Keeper and LastPass.
SEE: Mobile device security policy (TechRepublic Premium)
Below is a feature comparison to help enterprise teams and individuals alike decide which one is the right fit.
What is Keeper?
Keeper Password Manager is a highly secure, cloud-based password manager that helps users store and manage their passwords in a central location. Keeper uses military-grade encryption to ensure user data is always protected. It also offers a variety of features, such as two-factor authentication, biometrics and private sharing to help users stay secure.
What is LastPass?
LastPass is a password manager that helps users keep track of online passwords and login information. With LastPass, customers can create strong, unique passwords for online accounts and store them in a secure, encrypted database. Then, when they need to log in to an account, LastPass automatically fills in the correct username and password. With this feature, users only need to remember one master password to access all other online accounts. LastPass includes two-factor authentication and a password generator. The tool also offers a free version, making it an ideal option for individuals on a budget.
Head-to-head comparison: Keeper vs. LastPass
Feature | Keeper | LastPass |
---|---|---|
MFA authentication | ✅ | ✅ |
MFA authentication with federated login | ✅ | 🚫 |
Security alerts | ✅ | ✅ |
256-bit AES encryption | ✅ | ✅ |
Never URLs | 🚫 | ✅ |
Emergency access | ✅ | ✅ |
Unlimited device access | ✅ | ✅ |
Unlimited password storage | ✅ | ✅ |
Unlimited secure cloud backups | ✅ | ✅ |
Unlimited secure password sharing | ✅ | ✅ |
Secure random password generation | ✅ | ✅ |
Secrets management | ✅ | ✅ |
Multi-platform support | ✅ | ✅ |
Wide range of business add-ons | ✅ | 🚫 |
Zero trust and user authentication capabilities
Keeper and LastPass employ a zero-trust security model, meaning they never assume users are who they say they are. Instead, users are constantly verified through multiple layers of security.
In terms of two-factor authentication, LastPass and Keeper offer several methods, including biometrics, one-time codes, and push notifications. However, LastPass’s multi-factor authentication support is often limited or unavailable when federated login is used, while Keeper supports consistent MFA access via SSO Connect.
Adherence to information security standards
Another key difference is that Keeper enjoys the longest-running SOC2 and ISO27001 certification in the security industry. These are two of the most popular standards for information security; they deal with security controls to manage sensitive information, including policies, procedures, and technologies.
ISO 27001 emphasizes developing and maintaining an information security management system, while SOC 2 is more flexible and comprises five trust principles: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Both of these certifications are important indicators of the security and quality of the password manager.
Encryption and other credential management features
Keeper and LastPass employ 256-bit AES encryption; however, LastPass only supports encryption at the vault level, while Keeper supports encryption at multiple levels.
In addition, both password managers alert users when their login credentials may have been breached. Keeper offers a feature called BreachWatch, which alerts users when stolen usernames and passwords match the user. This can be a helpful feature if users are worried about their account being compromised.
SEE: Best encryption software 2022 (TechRepublic)
In contrast, LastPass offers a dark web monitoring feature. This feature evaluates all stored email addresses in vault items. It immediately alerts users via email and the dashboard if any client email addresses are found in the database of breached credentials.
Ultimately, LastPass and Keeper have excellent data protection and security features. However, Keeper’s superior MFA support, encryption, and history of favorable third-party certifications give it the edge in the overall security category.
General password management features
Keeper and LastPass each have robust administrative controls, allowing users to easily add, edit, and delete passwords as needed. These software solutions allow password imports from other applications, such as Google Password Manager. In the premium versions of Keeper and LastPass, customers benefit from unlimited device access, password sharing, and priority 24/7 customer support.
Keeper and LastPass offer emergency access. This means that if something happens to the primary account holder, a loved one or other designated user will still be able to access the accounts.
SEE: Password breach: Why pop culture and passwords don’t mix (free PDF) (TechRepublic)
Both password managers come with unlimited password storage and unlimited secure cloud backups. In addition, Keeper and LastPass enable secure password generation, using a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, symbols, and special characters.
However, despite their similar strengths in password management, there are some key differences when comparing Keeper vs. LastPass. For example, in LastPass, users can turn off specific sites, while Keeper does not offer this feature. This is advantageous if there are specific sensitive websites where users prefer to remember their passwords rather than use the password manager.
Supported platforms
Keeper and LastPass include support for a wide range of platforms. Keeper is available for Mac, Windows, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, IE, Edge, and Opera. Users can also join the Beta Testing Program to gain access to new features before they are released to the general public. LastPass is supported on Windows, Mac, Linux and Android and iOS platforms.
Business add-ons
Keeper offers a few more options than LastPass when it comes to business-specific add-ons. Its business add-ons include the Advanced Reporting and Alerts Module, Compliance Reports, the Keeper Secrets Manager, secure file storage and sharing, and private hyper-secure messaging via KeeperChat.
Choosing the best password manager
Keeper and LastPass offer a password management solution that is reliable, secure, and easy to use. However, Keeper’s superior data protection and security features, password management features, and business add-ons give it the edge over LastPass for most use cases.