How frequently should passwords be changed, according to standard recommendations?

Changing passwords regularly is an essential practice in maintaining the security of information systems. The recommendation of changing passwords every 90 days strikes a balance between security and user convenience. This timeframe is generally considered sufficient to mitigate the risks associated with potential credential compromise while minimizing the burden on users, who may find more frequent changes disruptive.

Frequent password changes, such as every 30 or 60 days, may lead users to adopt weaker passwords or rely on simple patterns in order to remember them, potentially diminishing security rather than enhancing it. A maximum interval of 90 days allows organizations to manage risks effectively without overwhelming users, thus encouraging adherence to password policy.

Standard security guidelines, including those from organizations such as NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), have supported this practice because a 90-day cycle allows sufficient time to assess the security environment and respond to threats. Thus, recommending a 90-day password change interval aligns well with best practices in systems security management.