Password Strength Checker
A full-stack application that evaluates password security in real time, detects breaches, and provides actionable feedback to users.
The Challenge
Weak and reused passwords are one of the leading causes of data breaches. Most password strength meters only check for length or complexity, ignoring whether a password has already been compromised in known leaks. Users need a tool that not only rates password strength but also validates its safety against global breach databases.
The Goal
The goal was to design a responsive, secure application that empowers users to create strong, breach-free passwords. By integrating real-time strength validation with external APIs, the application ensures users have immediate, actionable insights into their password security.
The Approach
Discovery & Planning
The problem definition centered around two main issues: password strength evaluation and breach detection. I planned a solution that combined both into a single user-friendly tool.
Design & Prototyping
I created a minimal, responsive UI where users could input passwords and immediately view strength feedback. Special attention was given to accessibility and clear visual indicators for weak vs. strong passwords.
Development & Technology
The backend was built with Node.js and Express.js, while the frontend was developed in React.js for real-time interactivity. I integrated the HaveIBeenPwned API to check if passwords were found in known breaches.
Key Features
Real-Time Strength Validation
Instant feedback as users type, based on complexity rules (length, characters, diversity).
Breach Detection
Integration with the HaveIBeenPwned API to detect compromised passwords.
Actionable Feedback
Suggestions for creating stronger, unique passwords.
Secure Data Handling
Ensures user privacy by never storing input passwords.
The Result
The application successfully provided a comprehensive solution for improving password security. Users were able to not only test the strength of their passwords but also ensure that they had not been exposed in any known breaches.
What I Learned
This project taught me the importance of integrating external APIs into full-stack applications, handling sensitive user input securely, and designing interfaces that balance usability with security. It was a key milestone in advancing my skills in security-focused web development.