Import Browser Passwords to KeePass - Easy Guide
Transferring Passwords to KeePass from Multiple Browsers
Previous discussions have addressed the security concerns surrounding stored passwords within browsers like Internet Explorer and Chrome, particularly the absence of built-in master password protection. This may prompt users to seek a more secure solution, such as migrating or backing up their passwords to KeePass, a dedicated, open-source password manager.
A Straightforward Process
The transfer of passwords to KeePass is remarkably simple, even for individuals who utilize multiple web browsers. It’s a process designed for ease of use and accessibility.
Moving your credentials doesn't require advanced technical skills. The steps are intuitive and can be completed quickly.
Benefits of Using KeePass
- Enhanced Security: KeePass offers robust encryption and the option to use a master password, significantly improving password security.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: KeePass functions across various operating systems.
- Open Source: Being open source, the code is publicly available for review, fostering trust and transparency.
For those concerned about the vulnerabilities of browser-stored passwords, KeePass provides a reliable and user-friendly alternative. It allows for centralized management and protection of sensitive login information.
Transferring Existing Passwords
The procedure for exporting your current passwords is straightforward. It involves exporting them to a text file and subsequently importing this file into KeePass. NirSoft's WebBrowserPassView is a helpful tool for simplifying this task, as it simultaneously displays passwords saved in Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, and Opera.
Upon launching WebBrowserPassView, a scan of your system for browser passwords is initiated, and any discovered credentials are presented. If a master password is enabled within Firefox, it must be provided under Options > Advanced Options before any protected entries become visible.
Password Extraction and Saving
After all password details are shown, select all entries. Then, click the disk icon to save the highlighted items to a file.
A dialog box will appear, prompting you to specify a File name. For the Save as type, choose "Comma Delimited Text File". It's important to note that while a "KeePass CSV" option exists, it may not import correctly into recent versions of KeePass.
Finalizing the Export
Confirm your file name and settings. The selected passwords will then be saved in a comma-separated text format, ready for import into KeePass.
Importing Passwords into KeePass
After exporting your passwords, the process of importing them into KeePass is straightforward. Begin by opening an existing KeePass database or creating a new one to store your credentials.
Navigate to the File menu and select the Import option to initiate the import procedure.
From the available formats, choose "Generic CSV Importer." Then, locate and select the CSV file that was previously generated using WebBrowserPassView.
Upon opening the CSV import dialog, adjustments to the default field mappings will be necessary to align with the CSV file’s structure. If the standard column order was maintained in WebBrowserPassView, the correct mapping is detailed below.
To establish the correct mapping, drag the columns into their appropriate positions. Once the column order is finalized, click the Refresh button.
Verify that the columns from the CSV file now correspond to their respective fields within KeePass. Confirm that all settings are correct before clicking the Import button to proceed.
The imported entries will be displayed at the top, or root, level of your database. During import, a single entry containing the CSV column headers may also be created; this should be deleted.
This extraneous entry will be identifiable by a User Name of "User Name," a Password of "Password," and a URL of "URL." Locate and remove this entry from your database.
The import is now complete, and all your browser passwords are securely stored within KeePass. You can then choose to remove your saved passwords from your browser for enhanced security.
Alternatively, you can periodically "refresh" your KeePass entries by deleting browser passwords and re-importing them, ensuring your database remains current.
Removing the CSV File After Password Import
Note: Following the completion of the import process, it is crucial to securely delete the CSV file. This can be achieved by selecting the file and simultaneously pressing the Shift and Delete keys.
Ensuring Data Security
Deleting the CSV file permanently removes a potential security risk. The file contains your passwords in plain text, making its secure disposal essential.
It's vital to understand the importance of this step. Leaving the CSV file accessible could compromise your online security.
Required Software
The process requires two pieces of software:
- WebBrowserPassView, available for download from NirSoft.
- KeePass, a secure password manager.
Download both applications before proceeding with the password import and subsequent file deletion.
Remember to obtain WebBrowserPassView directly from the NirSoft website to ensure authenticity and avoid potential malware.