Setting, Resetting, or Changing Your PennKey Password

The procedures for resetting a forgotten PennKey password and for deliberately changing a known password are distinct. To create a secure password that can withstand many of the same methods commonly used to steal or "crack" passwords, follow the University's password guidelines. Remember to keep your PennKey password (and all other passwords) secure. Good security practices are outlined on the Protect Your PennKey page.

Resetting a Forgotten PennKey Password

If you forget your password, you will need to reset it yourself using one of the methods described here. No one can retrieve your password or reset it for you.

If you're enrolled in Challenge-Response, log in to the Password Reset Application and reset your password online.

OR

If you're not enrolled in Challenge-Response, you will need to initiate the password reset process offline and then reset your password online.

1. Obtain a PennKey Setup Code in person or by postal mail. For security reasons, Setup Codes will not be sent by e-mail or given out over the phone. (Warning about Setup Codes)

   • In person - Visit the correct PennKey administration station with the necessary photo IDs. You must obtain a Setup Code yourself and cannot send another person (such as an assistant, colleague, or friend) to obtain your Setup Code for you.

   • By mail - Call the 24-hour, automated PennKey Setup Code Request Line and enter your identifying information. A letter containing your Setup Code will be sent via U.S. Mail to your address of record.

2. Log in to the PennKey Registration Application and reset your password. At the time you reset a new password, also consider setting yourself up in Challenge-Response.

Changing a Known PennKey Password

To change a known password, you have two options:

1. Change it on the web using the Change PennKey Password application. You will need to log in using your PennKey and current password.

2. Use Kerberos ticket manager software. Windows and Macintosh users can obtain ticket managers from the PennConnect DVD or the Supported Products web site. (For UNIX operating systems, use kinit.) Instructions for "Changing Your Kerberos/PennKey Password" (Kerberos password is another name for your PennKey password) are included in the ticket manager documentation for Windows and Macintosh.

If you ever believe your password has been compromised, change it immediately and report the incident to security@isc.upenn.edu.