Password
A password field (also known as a password input) is a specialized text input that obscures the characters typed by the user. Typically, it replaces typed characters with bullets or asterisks for security. Password fields can include additional features like toggling visibility, strength indicators, or validation messages to guide users in creating or entering secure passwords.
Usage
Secure Entry: Password fields ensure typed characters are hidden, protecting from casual onlookers.
Validation & Strength Checks: Often paired with rules (e.g., minimum length, special characters, etc.) and may display feedback (e.g., “Weak,” “Strong”).
Visibility Toggle: Some designs offer a “show/hide” icon so users can double-check their entry.
Use cases
Login forms (e.g., “Email” and “Password”)
Sign-up or registration pages requiring users to create a password
Areas where users need to confirm or change their password
Not to be confused with
TextField: A standard text field displays typed characters. A password field specifically masks them by default for security.
Best practices
Proper Labeling & Accessibility
Use a <label> or an accessible name (aria-label or aria-labelledby) for screen readers.
Include descriptive text if there are password requirements (e.g., “At least 8 characters, including one number”).
Show/Hide Toggle
A small icon/button can toggle visibility (e.g., “eye” icon).
Make sure it’s clearly labeled or has a tooltip for accessibility (e.g., “Show password,” “Hide password”).
Validation & Feedback
Provide real-time or on-submit validation to help users fix issues (e.g., insufficient length, missing character types).
If a “Strength Indicator” is used, it should be easy to understand (“Weak,” “Medium,” “Strong”), possibly with color-coding.
Avoid Pre-filling Sensitive Fields
Typically, do not pre-fill password fields. If using password managers, ensure your field is recognized (e.g., correct name or id attributes).
Security & Auto-Complete
Set autocomplete="current-password" or autocomplete="new-password" when appropriate, so browsers handle credentials correctly.
Always transmit password data securely (HTTPS).
Confirm Password
For sign-up or password change flows, a confirm-password field can reduce typos.
If used, label it distinctly (“Confirm Password”) and match them to ensure accuracy.
Consistent Styling
Visually align with other input fields in your design system (borders, spacing).
If an error state or validation is triggered, highlight the field (e.g., red border) and provide a clear error message.
Accessibility for All
Ensure focus states are noticeable for keyboard users.
Provide meaningful error or help messages for screen readers (use aria-describedby or a visually hidden text).
Performance
Typically not an issue with single fields, but be mindful if you’re validating large patterns or multiple fields in real time.
Use efficient client-side scripts or offload complex checks (e.g., dictionary checks) server-side.
Always label password fields clearly (e.g., “Password,” “Create a Password”) rather than relying solely on placeholder text.
Summary
A password field is a specialized text input that conceals user-entered characters for privacy and security. By including clear labels, robust validation (strength indicators, error handling), and optionally a show/hide toggle, you create a user-friendly experience that encourages secure password practices. Matching your design system’s styling, along with strong accessibility measures (focus states, ARIA attributes, readable error messages), ensures that password fields are both effective and inclusive in your application.
