This article answers frequently asked questions about 1Password, the password manager provided by UChicago for secure credential management.
1Password is a widely respected password manager that securely stores and manages passwords, private information, and other sensitive data. UChicago provides access to 1Password for enterprise and personal use.
Vaults in 1Password are secure, encrypted containers used to organize and protect your data—similar to folders on a computer. This is where you’ll find passwords you've added to your account, as well as any shared folders.
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Yes. 1Password is known for its strong security, user-friendly design, and privacy-first approach. It uses a zero-knowledge security architecture, including end-to-end encryption, two-secret key derivation, and server-client authentication. Your data is encrypted on your device and remains encrypted during transmission—making it inaccessible even to IT administrators and 1Password staff. Decryption occurs only on your device, and 1Password does not store or have access to your login password.
Enterprise licenses are available to faculty and staff in units that support this service. The University does not require use of 1Password, although you may be required to create an enterprise account depending on your unit or departmental operational needs. In any scenario, we highly encourage you to take advantage of this free service.
Contact your unit IT representative to request an enterprise 1Password account. Once enrolled, you’ll also be eligible for a free personal 1Password Families account, separate from your work account. You can invite four other people at no extra cost.
Each enterprise account includes a complimentary Families account with five personal licenses—one for you and four for others. These can be used to securely manage personal passwords, independent of your UChicago enterprise account. More info: 1Password Families Offer
Ask your IT administrator to create a shared vault for your team. They can assign you as an administrator or grant access to specific team members as needed.
If you leave UChicago, you can convert your Families account to a paid subscription by adding your own payment method. Without payment, the account enters a 14-day free trial. After that, it will be frozen until payment information is provided.
Credentials stored in your individual enterprise vault are deleted shortly after account closure. We are unable to facilitate the recovery of individual enterprise vaults and secrets. All business-critical credentials must be stored in your shared organizational unit vault to ensure continued access.