HelpDesk - Passwords
Creating a strong password is absolutely crucial to 
being a smart user of the Washington College network. The right password will keep your digital life secure - from network logon to grades to email. Creating a strong password is not a one time job: good security policy includes changing your password at least once every ninety days. Here you will find resources to help you understand and maintain your password.
About Passwords
A strong password should be between 8 and 64 characters.
It should include letters and at least one number and at least special character (!, @, #, $, %, etc.)
Mispellings strengthen passwords, too, and makes them more memorable.
For example, a strong password could be “t3chn0!oggy” because it contains letters, numbers and a special character is easily remembered due to its misspelling.
Many security experts suggest using passphrases instead of passwords. The same techniques of using numbers mixed in with letters applies to passphrases, the only differences is that you remember an entire phrase instead of just a word or two. An example would be “g3o0rgeg@essgr33n” since it is three words with intentional mispellings and contains letters, numbers and special characters.
Changing Your Password
To change your password, log in to Zimbra, choose Preferences or Settings and click the Change Password button under the General tab.
Setting a strong password from the beginning is a good start to being a smart user of the Washington College network. However, it’s not enough to be truly secure. Security experts recommend changing your password (or passphrase) at least once every three months (90 days) and OIT requires this practice.
It is important to remember that your new password cannot be or contain portions of any password used during the last three changes.
For even greater security, many people change their password once a month. Whether once a month or once every three months, it is important to find a schedule that works for you and stick with it.
Importance Of Strong Passwords
Why all the fuss about strong passwords?
A strong password can protect you from losing control of your digital life here at Washington College. Protecting your identity and information with a strong password or passphrase is the smartest and easiest way to ensure nothing electronic will be lost or stolen. Some services your password protects:
- Blackboard
- Library Catalog
- Meeting Maker Electronic Calendar
- Network Logon (Wired & Wireless)
- WebAdvisor
- Webmail & Email
- Much More…
Password Security
To ensure continued security of Washington College online services, OIT is asking that all users change their passwords once every 90 days. You will be prompted to make this change when your password is five days from expiring. Each time you change your password, it will be logged. You will not be able to use the same password or permutation of the password for the next three password changes. Please help us protect the campus community - and you - online by changing your password frequently.
Questions
For questions about passwords, please contact the HelpDesk at 410-778-7777.
