WordPress 4.3 Brings Improved Password Security, Easier Text Formatting

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Safer password management is one of the highlights in WordPress 4.3, which was released this week. Also added in the latest release are new text formatting shortcuts and the ability to change site menus in the Customizer, among other things.

WordPress 4.3 brings a completely new approach to passwords. When new users are added, or when the password of an existing user profile is edited, WordPress will automatically generate a strong password for that user. Users are given the choice to keep the recommended strong password or choose their own. In addition, the WordPress software will no longer send passwords via email; instead, users will get a password reset link via email, and that link will be good for 24 hours.

When it comes to writing in the visual editor, the WordPress editor now supports a number of new formatting shortcuts that eliminate the need to use a mouse to change text styles:

• Use * or – to start an unordered list.
• Use 1. or 1) to start an ordered list.
• Use ## for H2 and ### for H3 (etc., through H6).
• Use > to transform text into blockquote.

One other featured update is the ability to manage site menus via the Customizer. Users can create and preview menu changes before the update shows to site visitors.

There are a number of other updates, all of which are detailed in the WordPress Codex. The video below also explains and demonstrates some of the updates mentioned above.