Continuing our series on choosing a password manager, let’s now take a closer look at Bitwarden. This tool stands out from the competition thanks to its openness, flexibility, and the unique option to self-host, giving you maximum control over your data.

Bitwarden: Your Choice Between Cloud and Self-Hosting

Bitwarden is a popular, open-source password manager that strikes an excellent balance of security, functionality, and affordability. It offers users two main deployment options:

• ☁️ Cloud Version: Your encrypted vault is stored on Bitwarden’s servers
• 🖥️ Self-hosted Version: You install Bitwarden on your own server and retain full control over your data storage

Key Features and Capabilities: 🔐

• Comprehensive storage: Logins, passwords, notes, payment data, documents — all in one place
• Password and username generator: Create unique combinations for each service
• Bitwarden Send: Securely share messages and files via self-destructing links
• Built-in 2FA generator (TOTP): Generate two-factor authentication codes right in Bitwarden
• Organizations and Collections: Flexible team access management with user groups and roles
• Open-source code: Publicly available for community and independent audits
• Cross-platform support: Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and browser extensions

Bitwarden Cloud ☁️

The easiest and most popular way to start using Bitwarden.

Pros: ✅

• Simple and accessible: Get started in minutes without server setup
• Affordable plans:
  • Team Plan — from $3/user/month
  • Enterprise Plan — from $5/user/month
• Robust architecture: AES-256, zero-knowledge, open-source transparency
• Fully managed by Bitwarden: Updates, backups, and support included

Cons: ❌

• Cloud dependency: Data is physically stored on Bitwarden’s servers, which may be unsuitable for strict localization or data control requirements

Bitwarden Self-hosted 🖥️

Bitwarden is one of the few password managers that can be deployed on your own infrastructure.

Pros: ✅

• Maximum control and privacy: Data stays within your network
• Independence from Bitwarden’s cloud services
• Customizable: Adapt and integrate to suit your needs
• Compliance-friendly: Suitable for organizations with strict regulations (e.g., Russia’s 152-FZ)

Cons: ❌

• Technical expertise required: Setup via Docker, ongoing admin, and securing the system
• Responsibility is on you: Backups, updates, and security must be managed internally
• Extra costs: Server, hosting, and system administration

Summary and Recommendations: Which Password Manager to Choose? 🎯

✅ Dashlane is ideal if:

• You’re an individual or a small team
• You need a ready-to-use, cloud-based solution
• You want built-in VPN, breach monitoring, and a no-fuss setup

✅ Bitwarden Cloud is perfect if:

• You value transparency, open-source code, and reliability
• You’re looking for an affordable solution with business features
• You trust an encrypted vault stored by a cloud provider

✅ Bitwarden Self-hosted is your choice if:

• You have strict security and data localization requirements
• You already run your own server or VPS
• You have IT staff capable of maintaining the system

In any case, the most important step is to start using a password manager. It’s one of the most effective and accessible ways to significantly boost digital security and simplify access management.