A password with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, and a minimum length of 12 characters is considered strong and aligns best with a policy aimed at preventing guessing or brute-force attacks. Uppercase and lowercase letters increase complexity by expanding the range of possible character combinations. Numbers and special characters further enhance security by introducing additional complexity. A minimum length of 12 characters makes the password more resistant to brute-force methods due to the increased number of possible variations compared to a shorter password. Shorter passwords, even if complex, or passwords with limited character types are less secure because they reduce the possible combinations, making them easier to guess or crack through automated methods.