Password
Overview
A Password Input is a specialized text field designed to securely collect user passwords. It masks characters to prevent onlookers from reading the input and may include additional security features such as password visibility toggles, strength indicators, and validation requirements.
Password fields are commonly used in authentication forms, account creation, and security-related input fields where sensitive data entry is required.
Build Effort
Requires input masking, secure storage considerations, optional password strength validation, and accessibility features.
Use Cases
When to use:
- Login and authentication forms – Securing user access to accounts.
- Account creation and password updates – Ensuring users create strong, secure passwords.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) or PIN entry – Protecting access to critical information.
- Security-sensitive fields – Protecting data such as encryption keys or private access codes.
When not to use:
- For non-sensitive text input – Use a standard text field instead.
- For one-time codes (OTP) or PINs – Use the Code Confirmation pattern instead.
- For password confirmation fields – Use an inline validation approach to avoid user frustration.
Benefits
- Enhances security – Prevents passwords from being visible to onlookers.
- Reduces accidental exposure – Masks characters by default.
- Encourages strong password usage – Supports strength indicators and validation rules.
- Supports accessibility – Allows users to toggle visibility when needed.
Drawbacks
- Usability concerns – Masking can lead to mistyped passwords.
- Increased cognitive load – Users may struggle to recall their input without visibility.
- Potential security trade-offs – Some password visibility toggles may pose a risk if not well-implemented.
Best Practices
Content & Usability
Do’s ✅
- Provide a password visibility toggle to allow users to verify input.
- Display clear error messages when password criteria are not met.
- Indicate password requirements before users type to prevent frustration.
- Offer password strength indicators to encourage secure choices.
- Allow paste functionality to support password managers.
Don’ts ❌
- Don’t enforce arbitrary complexity rules (e.g., forcing special characters unnecessarily).
- Avoid disabling autofill unless there is a valid security reason.
- Don’t store passwords in plaintext or insecurely transmit them.
Accessibility
Do’s ✅
- Ensure the password toggle is keyboard accessible.
- Use aria-describedby to associate password requirements with the input field.
- Maintain high contrast and clear focus states.
- Allow users to verify their input without compromising security.
Don’ts ❌
- Don’t rely on placeholder text for password guidance—it disappears when users type.
- Avoid requiring excessive special characters that make passwords difficult to remember.
- Don’t assume all users can see visual strength indicators—provide text-based guidance.
Security Considerations
Do’s ✅
- Use secure hashing algorithms when storing passwords.
- Enforce rate-limiting and lockouts for repeated failed attempts.
- Implement 2FA options for high-security applications.
- Allow longer passphrases for enhanced security.
Don’ts ❌
- Don’t log passwords in any form.
- Avoid showing password hints that expose sensitive information.
- Don’t rely solely on client-side validation—perform checks on the server as well.
Layout & Positioning
Do’s ✅
- Place password fields close to their confirmation fields if applicable.
- Use inline validation to inform users of errors in real time.
- Ensure adequate spacing and alignment for clarity.
Don’ts ❌
- Avoid forcing password confirmation fields unless absolutely necessary.
- Don’t position error messages far from the field they relate to.
Testing Guidelines
Functional Testing
Should ✓
- Verify that the password field masks input by default.
- Ensure the password visibility toggle works correctly.
- Test autofill and password manager compatibility.
- Validate that password strength indicators update dynamically.
Accessibility Testing
Should ✓
- Ensure screen readers announce password requirements and errors clearly.
- Confirm toggle visibility button is keyboard navigable.
- Check for high contrast between text and background.
Security Testing
Should ✓
- Ensure passwords are encrypted before storage.
- Validate that passwords are never logged or stored in plaintext.
- Test rate-limiting and brute-force protections.
Related Patterns
- Text Field – Standard input for non-sensitive text.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a password input field?
A password input field is a form element that allows users to enter sensitive information securely. The input is typically masked to prevent onlookers from viewing the entered text.
- How can I enhance the usability of password input fields?
Enhance usability by providing a 'Show Password' toggle, displaying password requirements upfront, and offering a password strength meter to guide users in creating strong passwords.
- What are best practices for password input field accessibility?
Ensure the password field is focusable, provide clear labels, support keyboard navigation, and offer options to unmask the password for verification purposes.
- Should I use one or two password fields during account creation?
It's increasingly common to use a single password field with a 'Show Password' option, as this simplifies the process and allows users to verify their input without requiring a second confirmation field.
- How can I inform users about password requirements?
Display password requirements near the input field, either by default or when the field is focused, to ensure users are aware of the criteria as they create their password.