Ensure Your Asterisk Password is Secured

How to Make Password Asterisk in C

When developing applications that require user authentication, one of the crucial aspects is managing password inputs safely. In C programming, it’s possible to create an input field where the user can enter a password without displaying the actual characters by replacing them visually with an asterisk (). This approach not only enhances the security of password entry but also ensures users feel confident that their passwords are protected from prying eyes. In this article, we will explore how you can implement a password asterisk function in C.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the implementation, it’s important to grasp the fundamental principles behind reading user input securely. Typically, C does not provide a built-in function to mask user input. However, using additional libraries or techniques can help facilitate this:

• getch(): This function can capture a character without displaying it on the console.
• conio.h: This is a header file that includes various functions for console input/output.

Implementing Password Asterisk in C

Let’s walk through a simple example that demonstrates how to create an asterisk substitution for password input:

1. Include necessary header files:

#include 
#include 
#include 

2. Define the main function and initialize variables:

int main() {
    char password[20];
    char ch;
    int i = 0;
    printf("Enter Password: ");
    while (1) {
        ch = getch();  // Capture the character
        if (ch == 13) // Enter key to end input
            break;
        if (ch == 8) { // Backspace to delete last character
            if (i > 0) {
                printf("\b \b"); // Erase last asterisk
                i--;
            }
            continue;
        }
        password[i++] = ch; // Store character
        printf(" "); // Display asterisk
    }
    password[i] = '\0'; // Null terminate the string
    printf("\nYour Password is: %s\n", password); // For Debugging, showing actual password
    return 0;
}

3. Compile and run your program:

This program will effectively mask password entry with asterisks while storing the actual characters in a secure manner. Use the Enter key to finalize your input and the Backspace key to correct mistakes.

Best Practices for Password Management

While enhancing user input security, consider the following best practices:

• Use strong passwords with a mix of characters, numbers, and symbols.
• Implement failed login attempt restrictions to prevent brute force attacks.
• Encourage users to change their passwords regularly.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can create a secure password entry system using asterisk masking in C. Remember that maintaining good password practices is essential for protecting user data in any application.

Glossary of Terms

• getch(): A function used to get a character from the console without echoing it.
• conio.h: A header file in C used for console input and output operations.

Pro Tips

• Always validate password strength before allowing submission.
• Consider implementing password recovery options.
• Educate users on the importance of password security.

Secure Your Password Inputs Effectively

Update: 07 Oct 2025