Password Policy
In order to comply with Data Protection Regulations a password policy applies to all University computer network accounts. This policy improves the security of your account and enables us to increase the range of University services and resources available online.
Password Self Service
In order to manage your password effectively we advise all users to enrol with Password Self Service. Once enrolled you will be able to reset your password at any time, anywhere if your password has stopped working or has expired.
If you have a working username & password we strongly recommend that you use Password Self Service to change your password (you can do this without having to enrol) as this system will let you know if your new password meets the criteria.
There is a link to Password Self Service available in MyZone under MyTools (Network Password Self-service System)
Changing your Password
When you change your password it must be a least 8 characters long and contain all of the following criteria (do not use any part of your name/username):
- English uppercase characters (A through to Z)
- English lowercase characters (a through to z)
- Numerals (0 through to 9)
- Symbols e.g. !$#%
Enrolling on Password Self Service
You will need a current/working password to enrol on Password Self Service. If you enrol you will be able to reset your password even if it has stopped working.
Enrolment requires you to provide 4 'secret' questions and answers.
- Choose questions to which only you know the answer
- Please note when you are required to provide the answers you will need to
fill in the answer field exactly as you have entered when you enrolled.
Useful Tip: include a clue in your question e.g. question: the date of my mothers birthday (my answer = dd/mm/yy).
- You can change your questions and answers at any time - just log into the system with a current username and password and select the enrollment tab
- You will have 5 minutes to answer your security questions
Unlocking your Account
You can also use Password Self Service to unlock your account if you have entered an incorrect password too many times. Please note: accounts are automatically unlocked after 30 minutes - this system will enable you to unlock your account immediately.
Password Advice
Where you will need to use your password includes:
- For access to MyZone (this includes your University email)
- Logging into Moodle (the University VLE)
- Accessing electronic resources via Shibboleth and Athens
- Choosing your modules online/viewing your timetable
- For the University wireless network
- Logging into any Open Access Computer
- To use the online payment system for printing and copying
- To view programmes hosted on BoB (Box of Broadcasts)
- To access a University printer/copier if you do not have your University ID card
Don't forget
- Everyone has to change their password at least every 90 days
- You don't have to wait until your password expires - you can change your password anytime
- All users are advised to use Password Self Service as this will let you know if your new password meets the criteria
- Do not include any part of your name/username in your password
- You cannot reuse a password for at least 20 goes
(but you may be able to just change part of it: e.g. change the number; symbol etc) - If you get your password wrong (you are allowed 5 goes) your account will automatically 'unlock' after 30 minutes and you can try again
Students in Halls of Residence
Check out your password on an open access PC if you cannot log into
- The University wireless network
- MyZone when connected to a dataport in your room
What if I need help ?
The IT Helpdesk will be able to reset passwords in person or via the phone, but you will need to confirm your identity.
The IT Helpdesk is based on the ground floor of the University Library
Phone 020 8392 3737; email it.helpdesk@roehampton.ac.uk