Password Generator

SDLC Model

Chosen Model: Lean

Justification: For this focused utility project, the Lean approach enabled rapid iteration and continuous improvement, allowing for quick delivery of core functionality while minimizing waste and enabling fast feedback cycles.

Project Overview

Project Name: Password Genesis

Description: A secure password generator utility that creates strong, customizable passwords using cryptographically secure random number generation.

Goals and Objectives:

• Generate cryptographically secure random passwords
• Ensure cross-browser compatibility
• Create an intuitive, responsive user interface
• Educate the user on password safety and attacks
• Password creation animation (not complete yet)

Scope

In Scope:

• Password generation with configurable length (4-32 characters)
• Password strength indicator
• Responsive web design
• Cross-browser compatibility

Out of Scope:

• Password storage or management
• User accounts or authentication
• Password history or favorites
• Mobile app version
• Server-side processing

Assumptions and Constraints:

• Project uses only client-side technologies
• No external dependencies or libraries
• Target browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge

Timeline

Start Date: August 15, 2025

Completion Date: August 25, 2025

Key Milestones:

• Requirements Analysis: August 10-12
• Design & Planning: August 13-15
• Core Development: August 16-21
• Testing & Refinement: August 20-21
• Deployment: August 21

Requirements

Functional Requirements:

• Generate passwords with length between 4-32-128 characters
• Provide real-time password strength feedback
• Display generated password in a readable format
• Include a "Generate New Password" button
• Better input validation

Non-Functional Requirements:

• Use cryptographically secure random number generation
• Ensure responsive design for mobile and desktop
• Maintain cross-browser compatibility
• Provide immediate user feedback for all actions

Design Plan

User Interface Design:

• Layout: Clean, centered design with clear visual hierarchy
• Controls: Intuitive UI
• Strength Indicator: Visual bar showing password strength level
• Generate Button: Prominent, accessible button for new passwords

Style/Theme Guidelines:

• Visual Style: Modern, minimalist design with focus on usability
• Color Scheme: Dark theme with high contrast for readability
• Typography: Clear fonts with appropriate sizing
• Interactive Elements: Smooth hover effects and transitions

Technology Stack:

• Frontend: HTML5, CSS3, Vanilla JavaScript
• Random Generation: Web Crypto API (crypto.getRandomValues)
• Styling: CSS Grid and Flexbox for responsive layout
• Hosting: Vercel
• Version Control: Git with GitHub

Development Plan

Phases:

1. Setup & Structure: Create HTML structure, CSS framework, and JavaScript modules
2. Core Functionality: Implement password generation algorithm and character selection
3. User Interface: Build responsive layout with all interactive elements
4. Advanced Features: Add strength indicator and validation
5. Testing & Optimization: Cross-browser testing and performance optimization
6. Deployment: Configure Vercel and final testing

Version Control: Git with hosting on GitHub

Testing Strategy

Testing Types:

• Functional testing of password generation and customization
• Cross-browser compatibility testing
• Responsive design testing on various screen sizes
• Security testing of random number generation

Test Cases:

• Generate passwords with different length ranges
• Validate strength indicator accuracy
• Test edge cases (minimum/maximum lengths)

Deployment Plan

Deployment Environment:

• Platform: Vercel
• Environment Type: Static website
• Framework: Vanilla HTML/CSS/JavaScript
• Build Process: No build step required
• Custom Domain: passwordgenesis.com
• HTTPS: Enabled by default via Vercel

Tools & Services:

• Development: VS Code, Git, GitHub, Web Crypto API
• Testing: Browser DevTools, Lighthouse, manual testing
• Deployment: Vercel, Git workflow

Post-Deployment Steps:

1. Verify all functionality works on live site
2. Test on multiple browsers and devices
3. Run Lighthouse audit for performance and accessibility
4. Validate HTTPS and security headers
5. Update documentation and README

Security Considerations

Implementation Security:

• Use Web Crypto API for cryptographically secure random generation
• Ensure no passwords are stored or transmitted
• Validate all user inputs and parameters
• Implement proper error handling without exposing sensitive information

Best Practices:

• Follow OWASP guidelines for client-side security
• Use Content Security Policy headers
• Implement proper input sanitization
• Ensure secure communication over HTTPS

Maintenance Plan

Update Schedule: As needed for security patches or feature enhancements

Monitoring: Frequent testing and User feedback

Future Enhancements:

• Add password history (local storage)
• Implement password strength meter improvements
• Add export functionality for multiple passwords
• Consider PWA capabilities for offline use