Tools that'll help keep track of your passwords

Every time I log into one of my e-mail accounts, get on a network, or go to a favorite e-tail site, I have to enter a username and password. When I was new to the Internet, and only had a couple of accounts, it was easy to remember all my login details. But the more time I spend online, the more I have to remember.

The best way I've found to keep track of all my passwords and user names is to store them on my handheld. There are PDA apps that make it easy to access your login info, as well as things like account numbers and software serial numbers.

Here are three programs that help me log in without racking my brain.

GBS Passwords is a simple database program for storing passwords and other information. This free program isn't encrypted, but many people will still find that it meets their needs. If security is important to you, use one of the others featured here. (Free/Palm OS)

Yaps lets you store your passwords with the added security of 256-bit encryption. It even automatically locks up the app when you switch off your Palm PDA or change applications. Once you enter all your login info, the only password you'll need to remember is the one that gets you into Yaps. (Free/Palm OS)

Password Manager for Pocket PC keeps your passwords safe with 128-bit encryption. Another great feature of this program is that, if you forget to log out of it, it will automatically close after a period of inactivity. (Shareware/Pocket PC)

Keeping track of passwords, account numbers, and other confidential information can be quite a task. These programs make it a lot simpler.