Why Your Password Matters
Your university password protects your email, files, personal information, and access to university systems. Weak passwords can be easily guessed or compromised, putting both your account and university data at risk.
Creating a strong password helps keep your account secure and reduces the chance of unauthorized access.
University Password Requirements
Your password must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum of 12 characters
- At least 1 symbol
- At least 1 capital letter
- At least 1 number
Example symbols include:
! @ # $ % ^ & * ?
Best Practices for Creating a Strong Password
1. Use a Passphrase Instead of a Single Word
Longer passwords are more secure and easier to remember when they are based on a phrase.
Good Example
BlueCoffee!River92
This password:
- Is longer than 12 characters
- Contains capital letters
- Includes a symbol
- Includes numbers
Avoid
Password123!
Even though it meets the technical requirements, it is very common and easy for attackers to guess.
2. Avoid Personal Information
Do not include:
- Your name
- Birthday
- Phone number
- Pet names
- School name
- Simple keyboard patterns
Avoid Examples
Martin2025!Bulldogs123!Qwerty123!
Attackers often try these first.
3. Make It Easy for You — Hard for Others
A good method is combining:
- Random words
- A number
- A symbol
- Capitalization
Example Formula
FavoriteThing + Symbol + RandomWord + Number
Example:
Mountain!Lamp47
4. Do Not Reuse Passwords
Your university password should be unique and not used for:
- Personal email
- Banking
- Shopping websites
- Social media accounts
If another website is compromised, reused passwords can allow attackers into your university account.
5. Consider Using a Password Manager
Password managers securely store and generate strong passwords for you. This helps avoid reusing passwords and makes managing complex passwords easier.
Tips for Remembering Your Password
Instead of writing passwords down openly, try:
- Creating a memorable phrase
- Using abbreviations from a sentence
- Associating words with a personal memory
Example:
“Coffee every morning at 7!”
Could become:
Cem@7EveryDay!
Additional Security Recommendations
- Never share your password with anyone
- University IT staff will never ask for your password
- Change your password immediately if you suspect it has been compromised
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) whenever available
Need Help?
If you are having trouble changing your password or accessing your account, please contact the IT Help Desk - helpdesk@desales.edu or ext. 4357 for assistance.