Bitwarden for Windows

• End-to-end encrypted sync across desktop, browser, and mobile
• Unlimited passwords and devices on the free tier
• Passkey storage and TOTP support
• Password generator and vault health reports
• Send feature for transmitting a secret with an expiration
• Self-hosting option for organizations
• Published third-party security audits

Operating system

Windows 11, Windows 10, and current macOS releases

Architecture

x64 on Windows; universal build on macOS

Connectivity

Internet connection for sync; the desktop app caches an encrypted local copy

Browsers

Extensions for Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari

1. 1. Create an account

   Sign up at bitwarden.com with a strong, unique master password you can remember without storing it anywhere.

2. 2. Install the desktop app

   Download from bitwarden.com/download for Windows or macOS.

3. 3. Add the browser extension

   Install the extension for your browser and sign in; enable biometric unlock if your device supports it.

4. 4. Turn on two-factor

   Enable an authenticator app or hardware key in account settings before importing sensitive credentials.

1. 1. Import existing passwords

   Use Tools > Import data in the web vault to bring in a CSV export from your browser or previous manager, then delete the CSV securely.

2. 2. Organize with folders

   Group entries by purpose — work, finance, personal — so autofill lists stay manageable.

3. 3. Use Send for one-off secrets

   Share a credential with an expiration date instead of emailing it.

• Install from bitwarden.com/download or an official app store listing.
• The vault is encrypted with a key derived from your master password before it reaches Bitwarden's servers.
• The company publishes third-party audit reports.

Bundled software

None.

Privacy

Account email and billing data are held by Bitwarden; vault contents are encrypted client-side. Self-hosting removes the vendor from the data path entirely.

Known risks

• A hosted vault means account security depends on your master password and two-factor setup.
• Losing the master password without a recovery method means losing the vault.

• Current release

  Bitwarden ships frequent client updates; recent work has centered on passkeys and the redesigned desktop and extension interfaces. Release notes are published per client on the company's site and GitHub.

Bitwarden is the practical default for people who want a password manager that just syncs everywhere. Choose KeePassXC instead if you would rather no server ever held your vault.