Configuration Tool for Windows 95/98, NT4, and 2000

Changing Your Password for Melb PC users

Your password is a key element in maintaining the security of your account. Ideally, your password should not be written down, it should be different for each if you have more than one account, and changed occasionally. These measures increase security and guard against identity theft and intrusion.

Changing passwords is good as it improves security but it can be a hazard if the new password is forgotten or confused with an old password. It is worthwhile to consider your what your new password will be. NOTE: The system demands that the first 6 characters of the new password must contain at least two alphabetic characters and at least one numeric or special character. It must also differ by more than three characters from the previous password, and it will not accept variations of your username. Remember at all times that your Password is case-sensitive and must always be typed the same way - it may include alpha, numeric, and other characters, and should be between six and ten characters long. This is for increased security, and to make passwords harder to crack.

PLEASE NOTE: The 'working' password file is copied from the master password file twice each hour, and so your new password may not be in operation for a short time until the next regular copy is made from the master file. For this reason it is recommended that password changes are made just prior to the end of a session so that the new password will be in effect for your next connection.

To change your password, log on to https://netsec.melbpc.org.au/radsec/, and follow the onscreen instructions. This is a secure circuit so accept the security certificate by clicking on Yes.

Step 1.

At the screen,
insert your normal
Username and Password
in the boxes shown and click on Login.

Step 2.

At the next screen, clickChange Password in the User panel at the top RH corner of the screen.

Step 3.

In the new window, read the instructions carefully and type in the new password using the tips mentioned above.

Type the new password a second time and note that both are in plain text.

Type in your old (existing)password, ensure that all are correct and click Change Password.

Step 4.

Your password has now been changed. Note carefully the caution on this screen, and then Logout.

Your new password will be in force and your previous password is no longer valid. However there is a delay in copying from the master password file.

Also remember that all passwords stored on your machine such as in your Mail program and the like will now require the matching password to be changed.