Passwords
Your computer's logon account password is the first line of defense in protecting you and your data from intruders. It is important that you select a strong password. Selecting a New Password
When you are selecting a new password, there are some steps you can take to ensure that your password is strong.
The new password you select should be at least eight characters long, and include at least three of these four types of characters:
- lower case letters (a-z)
- upper case letters (A-Z)
- numbers (0-9)
- punctuation, such as: $_!-#
The best passwords are "passphrases": a series of words (phrases) with non-standard spellings, punctuation and numbers. For example, "My dog Spot" might become "m!doGspT476" (don't use this one!). By using phrases, you can create a secure password that is easy for you to remember.
Longer passwords are more secure, so select a passphrase that is as long as possible while still being easy for you to use regularly. (Think of what you could make from "Oh, say can you see, by the dawn's early light," for example!)
Strong passwords protect you from malicious individuals who might want to break into your account. Security is only as strong as the weakest link. Please help keep the system secure by keeping your own account secure.
Your new password is known only to you. Be sure to keep it private, as you are responsible for the use of your computer account.
These articles articles more useful tips for selecting your password:
Strong passwords: How to create and use them (Microsoft)
The Diceware Passphrase Home Page (A G Reinhold)
Password Expiration
Your CUA network logon password is set up to expire every 90 days. This encourages you to change your password often.
Several days before your password expires, you will begin receiving a message when you log in. If you try to log on after your password has expired, the log on attempt will fail.
You should change your password as soon as possible. To reset your password before it expires, log onto Home@CUA. Once logged on to this page, choose Change Password from the menu on the left.
If the password has already expired, log onto Home@CUA. You will be required to change your expired password upon logging on to Home@CUA. Forgotten Passwords
If you forget your network logon password, you will need to request that a new password be generated for your computer account. Do this by calling the Information Center Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm, or visiting the Information Center in 200 Leahy Hall Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
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