The randomness of key generation is also a significant factor in the ability to compromise a key. When passwords
are tied into key generation, the strength of the encryption algorithm is diminished, particularly when common words are used. This significantly reduces the key space combinations to search for the key. For example, an eight-character password is comparable to a 32-bit key. When encrypting keys based on passwords, a password that lacks randomness will diminish a 128-bit encryption algorithm’s capabilities. Therefore, it is essential that effective password syntax rules are applied and easily guessed passwords are prohibited.