|NETWORK FAQ 4: Network/e-mail password policy
Created on: 3/4/07
Last updated: 3/4/07
Applies to:
Operating System
All
QUESTIONS:
What is the new nework/e-mail password policy?
Why is the password policy changing?
Why am I unable to log onto webmail?
ANSWER:
To improve security on the network we now require users to change network/e-mail passwords at least every 180 days. The new passwords must be at least 8 characters long and also must be complex, meaning that they must contain 3 out of 4 of the following:
- upper case
- lower case
- numbers
- symbols
Note: Passwords cannot contain your username.
More information on creating strong passwords can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/privacy/password.mspx.
To check the strength of your password, use Microsoft’s password checker at http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/privacy/password_checker.mspx.
The change will be implemented in groups starting in 2007. Groups of administrators and then faculty will first be notified as their accounts fall under the policy. Students will be included later in the year.
If you do not change your password within the 180 days, your password will expire. If your password expires you will not be able to log onto webmail until you change your password.