Password Guidelines

The following guidelines must be met when changing and resetting your password:

• Passwords are to be a minimum of 14 characters and are to include three of the following conditions:
  • Uppercase letter
  • Lowercase letter
  • Number
  • Non-alphanumeric character (#, $, %, !, etc.)
• Passphrases should be used when possible because they can be easier for a user to remember, while at the same time being harder for a third party to crack.  A passphrase is a set of words that should include the following:
  • Numbers
  • Special characters
  • Uppercase letters
  • Lowercase letters
• Individuals with local administrator access, or those that use a laptop should adhere to the guidelines above. 
• Individuals may not use any of the 5 most recent passwords used on the account, even if the password meets the new complexity guidelines. 
   

We recommend using a password manager that can generate a strong password and help you keep track of them.  A good free password manager is Bitwarden, but there are others.  If you are ok paying a small yearly fee 1Password is highly recommended.

If you use AI chatbots such as ChatGPT or Google Gemini, they can help you create strong passwords too: 
just say "Create a strong 14 character password using special characters, upper and lower and numbers"

Please NEVER write on paper any password, we highly recommend password managers for storing passwords securely.

Password Sharing- Under no circumstances should anyone share their password with colleagues, student workers, students, or outside entities. Information Technology Services will never request your password.  If there is concern that your account has been compromised, please change your password immediately and contact the IT Help Desk.