FAUNet ID Password

FAU is committed to the highest integrity in securing its IT environment. The combination of your FAUNet ID and your password is the University standard for authentication for most University information systems. Your FAUNet ID password is synchronized across FAU systems so that you only need to remember one password to gain access to multiple computing services.

Password Requirements


  • Your password must be 8 to 30 characters in length.
  • Your password should contain a mix of at least 3 of the 4 character types: uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numeric digits, and symbols.
  • Your password should not contain your username, first name, or last name.
  • Your new password must not repeat any of your previous 6 passwords.
  • If your password is older than 1 year you will be required to change it at next login.
  • You will be notified 30 and 15 days prior to your password expiration date and be allowed to change your password from those dates onward.

Recommendations for a Secure Password


  • Use a combination of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (e.g., @ & $ ! # % ^ + -).
  • Never use your username as your password.
  • Never use any form of your name, pet's name, or other name readily associated with you.
  • Never use a word found in the dictionary.
  • Change your password regularly, at least every 180 days.

Examples of Strong Passwords

Below are examples of good passwords. Use these examples as models when createing your password.

Example Description
!0n3yM4n
This variation of "moneyman" uses the recommended combination of upper- and lowercase letters, symbols (exclamation point), and numbers for letters.
Env$43tyR0ck!
This example is 13 characters long, 5 more than the minimum of 8, and uses numbers, symbols, and a mix of upper- and lowercase letters.
Sp4c3_Eng_D3$1gn3r
This password consists of three upper- and lowercase letter and numeric/symbol combinations, separated by underscores.

How Do I Reset My Password?


You do not have to call the Help Desk if you forget your password. You can reset it yourself!

Students, faculty, and staff can go to the FAU Account Self-Service portal and click on the "Manage Your FAU Account" link. Then enter your FAUNet ID and current password. Then click the "Change Your Password" link to reset your password.

If you are already logged into Microsoft Windows you can use Ctrl + Alt + Del and select the "Change Password" button.

How to Keep Your Computer and Accounts Secure


The following are standard practices to help you keep your computer and accounts secure:

  • Use password-protected screen savers (on a PC, go to Start\Control Panel\ Display, select the Screen Saver tab, and check the box for "On resume password protect").
  • When you leave your desk, always lock your computer (Ctrl + Alt + Del) or log off so your computer is protected by your password while you are away.
  • Never write your password on a Post-It note and tape it on your monitor, place it under your keyboard, or put it anywhere in your desk.
  • Never share your password.
  • Select a password that is easy to remember. Longer passwords are generally much more secure. A long password is much more difficult to break than a shorter password with a higher level of complexity.

Note: If you are unsuccessful in resetting your password, contact the OIT Help Desk at 561-297-3999.