Generate Random Passwords with Bash/OpenSSL

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Instead of relying on online password generators, use Bash and OpenSSL to create secure, random passwords directly from your terminal.

Generate a Random Password

newpw=$(openssl rand -base64 18 | tr -dc A-Za-z0-9 | head -c 12)
echo $newpw

Output Example:


s8ZHH4zblecU

You Should Know:

  1. Understanding the Command
    – `openssl rand -base64 18` → Generates 18 bytes of random data in Base64.
    – `tr -dc A-Za-z0-9` → Removes special characters, keeping only alphanumeric chars.
    – `head -c 12` → Trims the output to 12 characters.

  2. Alternative Methods
    Using `pwgen` (Install if missing)

    sudo apt install pwgen -y
pwgen -s 16 1

Output:


xY7kPq9R2vM4sL6T

Using `/dev/urandom`

cat /dev/urandom | tr -dc 'A-Za-z0-9' | head -c 16

Output:


B5nQk8rT2vW7pX4z

Using Python (One-Liner)

python3 -c "import secrets; print(secrets.token_urlsafe(12))"

Output:


JxK9m2LpQvW3
  1. Password Strength Testing
    Check password entropy with cracklib-check:

    echo "s8ZHH4zblecU" | cracklib-check

Expected Output:


s8ZHH4zblecU: OK
  1. Automating Password Generation
    Save passwords securely in a file:

    for i in {1..5}; do
echo $(openssl rand -base64 12 | tr -dc A-Za-z0-9 | head -c 16) >> passwords.txt
done

View Passwords:

cat passwords.txt

5. Windows Alternative (PowerShell)

$newpw = -join ((65..90) + (97..122) + (48..57) | Get-Random -Count 12 | % {[bash]$_})
Write-Output $newpw

Output:


<h2 style="color:yellow;">7fK9Lm2pQw4R</h2>

What Undercode Say
Generating passwords locally ensures no third-party exposure, unlike online tools. Use OpenSSL, /dev/urandom, or `pwgen` for best security. Avoid weak patterns (password123) and enforce minimum 12-character passwords.

For offline storage, encrypt passwords using:

gpg -c passwords.txt

Always verify password strength before use.

Prediction

As cyber threats grow, CLI-based password generators will replace online tools due to privacy concerns. Expect more AI-driven password audits in security workflows.

Expected Output:


s8ZHH4zblecU
xY7kPq9R2vM4sL6T
B5nQk8rT2vW7pX4z
JxK9m2LpQvW3
7fK9Lm2pQw4R

IT/Security Reporter URL:

Reported By: Activity 7334337953588039683 – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅

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