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Help and Support

Email Tutorials - Choosing and changing your NetID password

 

Initial passwords given to you should be changed immediately to maximize your security. These passwords should be changed periodically and chosen wisely. This document will outline things to consider when choosing a password and gives the steps for changing your password on Queen's accounts.

 

A weak password can expose your e-mail, files, and programs, and put the entire Queen's network in jeopardy. You can be liable for fraudulent e-mail sent from your account, which may result in the spread of rumors, lies, or even a criminal charge depending on the content of the e-mail. An account break-in could also result in a system break-in, which would be disastrous for Queen's network security. Please choose your password wisely and maximize your own security, as well as that of the Queen's network.

Choosing A Good Password

Before you change your password give it some thought.

 

The best passwords are a completely random string of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special symbols (#, @, $, !, etc). The trouble with this is that such passwords are very hard to remember and you will be tempted to write it down. If you have to write it down, don't keep it with your userid!

 

You could try putting together an acronym that is special to you. For example, "NotFsW" - none of this fancy stuff works, or "TTL*hiWw" - twinkle, twinkle little star, how I wonder what...

Note: Do not use these passwords because they have been published.

Here are a few guidelines to help you choose a good password:
  • Use a combination of upper and lower case characters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Choose a password between 6 and 8 characters in length.
  • Use different passwords for different accounts.
  • Memorize your password, however, if you must write it down, don't keep it with your userid!
  • Don't use words that can be found in a dictionary of any language.
  • Don't give your password to anyone!
  • Don't use someone's name (even spelled backward).
  • Don't use your birthdate.
  • Don't use your pet's name.
  • Don't use words spelled backwards.
  • Don't use words with numbers added only to the beginning or end.
  • Don't use words from different languages.
  • Don't use corrupted versions of a word by replacing certain letters with certain numbers, for example replacing an "e" with a "3" or an "o" with a "0".

Changing Your Password



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