This article outlines tips and guidelines for creating passwords for your PennKey and Wharton accounts. Both accounts share the same password requirements.
To change your password, see Change / Reset Password.
NOTE - To help take the burden of complex passwords off of your shoulders, Wharton offers access to an encrypted password manager called Dashlane. Find out more about how it works and how to sign up.
Wharton Password Guidelines
This list of guidelines and requirements will help you pick a strong password.
Password Length
Your Wharton password must meet differing requirements, depending on length (minimum length now required is 16 characters):
| Password Length | Requirements | Example (Do NOT use these for your actual password.) |
|---|---|---|
| 20+ Characters | Any US keyboard characters. | boldaugustpretzelcloud |
| 16-19 Characters | Upper and lower-case letters | BoldAugustPretzel |
Invalid Passwords
Your password cannot be:
- Easily guessed or a known compromised password (example: 12345678).
- Your PennNet ID, username (even backwards), or your first, middle, or last name.
- Single dictionary words, even if they meet the length requirements.
Refresh Your Password Frequently
You should change your password every 90-120 days (3-4 months).
Enable MultiFactor Authentication
Whenever possible you should enable multi-factor authentication. Also known as "two-step verification", this will keep your credentials safer. See our article on Two Step Verification.
Tips for Creating a Password
Your password should be easy for you to remember, but should not make sense to anyone else.
- No PII. Avoid basing your password on your personal information like your birthday, phone number, address, or other personal information that may be publicly available.
- Make it Long. String together four or more unrelated words for a long, secure password.
- Mask it. Replace letters with numbers that look similar to make an easy to remember yet strong password.
- For example, turn "Wireless" into "W1r3l3ss" or "learning" into "13arn1ng"
For more tips, see the University's password guidelines.
Questions?
If you have questions, please contact the Client Support Services team.