GPass - Password Generator CLI

The Challenge

Generating secure passwords should be quick and effortless, especially when you're working in the terminal.

• Context: Developers and technical users often need to create passwords on the fly while working from the command line.
• Problem: Browser-based password generators require switching contexts, and existing CLI tools are often overly complex or have unnecessary dependencies.
• Goal: Build a minimal, fast password generator that works directly in the terminal with simple, intuitive commands.

The Solution

GPass is a lightweight command-line tool that generates secure random passwords instantly.

• Strategy: Create a zero-configuration utility that focuses on speed and simplicity, with sensible defaults that work for most use cases.
• Key Capabilities:
  • Instant Generation: Generate passwords immediately without configuration.
  • Customizable Length: Specify password length to match your requirements.
  • Character Sets: Control which character types to include (uppercase, lowercase, numbers, symbols).

Technical Architecture

Built for simplicity and speed.

• Tech Stack: Node.js, JavaScript.
• Architecture: A single-purpose CLI tool with minimal dependencies, designed to be fast and lightweight.
• Key Decisions:
  • Node.js: Chose for its universal availability and simple package distribution via npm.
  • Minimal Dependencies: Kept the tool lightweight by using Node.js built-in crypto module for secure randomness.

My Role & Contributions

I built GPass as a personal utility tool that I needed for my own workflow.

• Full Development: Designed and implemented the complete CLI tool from scratch.
• UX Focus: Prioritized simplicity and ease of use with sensible defaults and clear command-line options.
• Distribution: Published as an npm package for easy installation and use.

Challenges & Learnings

• Obstacle: Ensuring truly random password generation using secure methods.
• Solution: Leveraged Node.js crypto module which provides cryptographically strong random number generation suitable for security-sensitive applications.
• Takeaway: Simple, focused tools that solve one problem well are often more valuable than complex, feature-rich alternatives.

Impact & Results

• Outcome: Created a reliable tool that I use regularly for generating passwords quickly from the terminal.
• Metric: Lightweight package size and fast execution time.
• Feedback: The simplicity and speed make it a go-to tool for quick password generation needs.

Need something similar?

If you're looking for a custom CLI tool or utility that fits your workflow, I can build something tailored to your needs. Whether it's a password generator, file processor, or another command-line utility, I focus on making tools that are simple, fast, and reliable.

Get in touch to discuss your project, or check out more projects I've built.

I typically reply within 24 to 48 hours. I'm based in Thessaloniki, so keep timezone differences in mind.