HTMLInput

Password Input Generator

Create secure <input type="password"> controls with native masking and autofill support.

Password input on iPhone

Input configuration

Preview & code

Tip: Tweak attributes to see the preview and code update instantly.

HTML password input: security, UX, and accessibility

The HTML <input type="password"> masks characters visually so bystanders cannot read sensitive information. It’s the foundation of sign‑in and account creation experiences. Yet security depends on more than dots on the screen: the way you label, validate, and store passwords shapes both user trust and real protection. This guide summarizes practical steps for building password fields that are usable, secure, and accessible across devices.

Labeling and helper text that reduce errors

Start with a visible label like “Password” connected via for/id. If you enforce rules—minimum length, required character sets, or passphrase guidance—state them before submission using helper text associated with aria-describedby. A short example is better than a long paragraph. During sign‑up, a “show password” checkbox can improve accuracy; be sure it is a standard control with an accessible name and that it does not reset focus unexpectedly.

Smart attributes

  • autocomplete: use current-password for sign‑in and new-password during account creation to work with password managers.
  • minlength/maxlength: set practical bounds; allow long passphrases.
  • inputmode: generally omit; the default keyboard is appropriate.

Strength and feedback

Real‑time strength meters can guide users toward stronger choices, but they should never block submission solely based on a score. Validate on blur or on submit; offer actionable tips like “Use a phrase of three or more unrelated words.” Avoid prescriptive rules that encourage predictable patterns.

Security basics (still essential)

  • Always hash passwords with a slow, salted algorithm (Argon2id, scrypt, or bcrypt) on the server. Never log or email passwords.
  • Rate‑limit authentication endpoints and implement multi‑factor options where appropriate.
  • Protect against credential stuffing by monitoring unusual login patterns.

Accessibility checklist

  • Ensure a visible focus outline for the field and the “show password” toggle.
  • Expose the toggle’s state to assistive tech using aria-pressed or a native checkbox with an accessible label.
  • Announce errors succinctly and link them via aria-describedby.

Copy‑ready patterns

Use the generator above to create these common variants, then paste them into your project:

  • Sign‑in field: label + autocomplete="current-password" + required.
  • Create password: label + minlength (e.g., 12) + helper text + autocomplete="new-password".
  • Show password option: a labeled checkbox that toggles the input’s type between password and text.

Passwords remain a critical touchpoint. By combining clear labels, realistic rules, supportive feedback, and hardened server practices, you’ll deliver a password field that is both pleasant to use and difficult to attack.

➤