Before resetting your password, you must first set up two-factor authentication (2FA). If you have not completed this step yet, please follow the instructions in the article below:
Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication
Recommendation: We strongly recommend using the Microsoft Authenticator app as your verification method. It is the fastest, most secure, and most reliable option for confirming your identity during the password reset process.
Before You Begin
To reset your password, you must have previously registered at least one authentication method, such as:
- Microsoft Authenticator (Recommended)
- Mobile phone
- Alternate email address
If you have not registered an authentication method or are unable to complete the verification process, please contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance.
Resetting Your Password
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Open a web browser and navigate to the Microsoft Self-Service Password Reset portal:
https://passwordreset.microsoftonline.com/passwordreset#!/
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Enter your full DeSales email address (for example, john.smith@desales.edu) and complete the CAPTCHA verification.
Note: Unlike some DeSales services, the password reset portal requires your full DeSales email address, not just your username.
- Click Next.
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When prompted to verify your identity, select your preferred authentication method.
Recommendation: Select Microsoft Authenticator and approve the sign-in notification or enter the verification code displayed in the app.
- Once your identity has been verified, enter your new password.
- Confirm your new password and select Finish.
- After your password has been successfully reset, sign in to your DeSales services using your new password.
Password Requirements
When creating a new password, it must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be at least 12 characters long
- Contain at least one uppercase letter or one lowercase letter
- Contain at least one number or one special character (symbol)
Additionally, your password cannot:
- Contain your first name, last name, or username
- Contain obvious personal information that could be easily guessed
- Include the word "DeSales"
- Be the same as a previously used password
Tip: Consider creating a passphrase using several unrelated words combined with a number or symbol. For example, River!Coffee27Lantern. Passphrases are often easier to remember while providing excellent security.
Update Your Devices
After resetting your password, you may need to update your saved credentials on your devices and applications, including:
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Teams
- OneDrive
- Microsoft 365 applications
- Mobile phones and tablets
- University-issued Windows and Mac computers
- Devices connected to the DeSales wireless network (if prompted)
Simply enter your new password when prompted.
Need Assistance?
If you are unable to reset your password or encounter any issues during the process, please contact the ITS Help Desk.
Phone: 610-282-1100 ext. 4357 (HELP)
Email: helpdesk@desales.edu
Best Practice
Information Technology Services strongly recommends registering and maintaining the Microsoft Authenticator app as your primary authentication method. Using the Authenticator app provides the fastest, most secure, and most reliable experience for password resets and account verification.
If you have not yet registered the Microsoft Authenticator app, please contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance.