Create or Change a Password
Policy | Standard | Procedures | Informative
Version: 1.3.3
Last Updated: 12/14/06
University Computing and Communications Services

Guidelines for choosing strong passwords, instructions for changing passwords (GroupWise, Windows Workstations, Macintosh Workstations, Panther Accounts), installing a screen password, and requesting a password reset.

About
Guidelines for Creating Secure Passwords
Change E-mail (GroupWise) Passwords
Change Novell Passwords on Windows NT/2000/XP
Install a Screen Password
Request Password Resets
Help

About:

A password is your system's - and the University network's - security. As well as protecting your own system, securing your personal computer from outside intrusions minimizes attacks on the University network. Many attacks on personal computers are simply an attempt to locate an "entrance" into the larger University network. If an attempted attack on your machine is unsuccessful, not only have you thwarted a local intrusion, more than likely, you've protected the University network as well. Therefore, protect your computer - as well as the entire University network - by choosing a strong password for your personal computer, and changing it frequently.

Important - Guidelines for Creating Secure Passwords:

Passwords should:
- be at least eight characters long
- consist of mixed case (at least one each of upper and lower case)
- contain at least one number
- be different for different systems - especially for Georgia State versus non-Georgia State systems
- be changed frequently
Hint: A strong password might look something like: wh3WdhG1

NOTE:
Passwords are usually configured to expire every 90 days. At the time of expiration, you will receive a notice that your password has expired and you will be prompted to change it.

Change E-mail (GroupWise) Passwords:

1. Go to the main window in GroupWise.
2. Click Tools>Options.
3. Double-click the Security icon.
4. Click the Password tab.
5. In the Old Password box, type the password you wanted changed.
6. In the New Password box, type the new password.
7. In the Confirm New Password box, type the new password again.
8. Click OK.
9. Click Close.

Change Novell Passwords on Windows NT/2000/XP:

1. Press Control/Alt/Delete.
2. Confirm that the GSU with the tree to the left is highlighted.
3. Enter your old password, you new password, and then your new password a second time.
4. Click OK.

Install a Screen Saver Password on Windows NT/2000/XP:

1. Click Start.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click Control Panel.
4. Click Display.
5. Click the Screen Saver tab.
6. Click the drop-down box arrow, and then choose a Screen Saver.
7. Click the Settings tab.
8. Check the Password Protector box.
9. Fill in Wait X minutes (This is the number of minutes you want the computer to wait before displaying the screen saver.)

Password Resets:

1. To have Novell or GroupWise passwords reset, contact the Help Center (404-651-4507).
2. To have Student E-mail passwords reset:
   You will need your student identification number and Tempo PIN number to access these pages. If you need assistance with your student identification number of Tempo PIN number, contact the Admissions Office at 404-651-2365.
1. Go to http://help.student.gsu.edu
2. Click Reset Password.
3. Type in your Student Number and Access Code. The access code is your Tempo PIN number.
4. Click Submit.

Help:

If you have questions please contact the Help Center for assistance (404-651-4507 or help@gsu.edu).

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