We all lock our doors and use different tools to protect our homes, identities, etc. However, when it comes to setting passwords for things such as email, online credit card access or online banking, the only thing keeping a hacker from all of our private information is the word "password."

"Password," "123456" and, weirdly, "monkey" are among the 25 worst passwords of the year, according to SplashData, a private company that sells security services and password software.

SplashData compiled its 2011 list from files containing millions of stolen passwords posted online by hackers.

Microsoft® Safety & Security Center offers a password checker to test the strength of your password. You just need to type your password into the box, and it check the strength.

Password strength depends on the different types of characters, password length and if it can be found in the dictionary. Strong passwords typically contain letters, punctuation, and numbers; include eight or more characters; and don't contain words found in the dictionary.

For more tips on passwords, see our Passwords Security Tip.