The Factors Influencing the Use of Password Managers

Abstract

This paper investigates the factors that influence the actual use of password managers. In this paper, we have integrated some factors from the Technology Acceptance Model (perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and attitude) with other factors from the literature review (user readiness, awareness, and motivation) to investigate the influence of these factors on the use of password managers. The authors used an online questionnaire to collect data. The questionnaire was distributed by using two social media platforms (Twitter and WhatsApp). There were 171 participants from 6 countries who completed the questionnaire. Structural equation modelling was employed by using SmartPLS-3 software to analyse the data. Findings indicate that perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and user readiness have a positive impact and are substantially associated with attitude, thus influencing the actual use of password managers. Likewise, perceived usefulness, user readiness, and awareness have a positive impact and are significantly associated with motivation of users to use it, which also influences the actual use of password managers.

Investigating the Factors Influencing the Use of Cloud Computing

“…This is consistent with [16], where they found that user readiness is a significant factor influencing the use of mobile technologies for learning purposes. In addition, this agrees with the findings reached by [6], where they found that user readiness has a significant influence on the use of password managers. The readiness to use cloud computing can be achieved by knowing and understanding the benefits of the use of this technology and its use method.…”

“…Also, their awareness about this technology may lead them to understand how to avoid any harm that might result from using it. This argument is in alignment with number of studies such as [54], [53], and [6], where they have argued that awareness is considered a significant factor influencing the use of new technology. Thus, it is important for individuals to raise their awareness and improve their understanding of this technology, its use, and benefits so that they can use it effectively to utilize these benefits.…”

“…Similarly, a lack of understanding of the advantages of choices like SaaS2 has clearly hampered uptake [15]. Thus, awareness is an important determinant of a technology's apparent connection and applicability [33], [6]. In this research, conceptual awareness refers to the degree to which a person is conscious of the cloud computing-based technology services that are available to them and their perceived utility.…”

“…For example, Parasuraman and Colby [43] have defined readiness for technology as "people's propensity to embrace and to use new technologies for accomplishing goals in home life at the workplace" (p. 48). Alshahrani and Alghamdi [6] have defined it as the extent to which the user is ready and able to use this new technology.…”

“…As a result, it is critical to provide them with access to, and an understanding of, the technology that will assist them. Users should not only be aware of According to the literature review, the use of new technology can be significantly influenced by the readiness of the users [6], [43], [37], [39], [42]. Ling and Moi [37] have studied students' technology readiness for an e-learning system.…”