Technology for faculty and staff: Network login FAQs

Active Directory FAQs

What is Active Directory?

Active Directory (AD) is the system the University uses to allow authorized University users to access their files and systems on the network.

Why do I have to push CTRL+ALT+DELETE before I can log in?

In the Windows world, the keyboard combination of these 3 keys can be used to terminate any running programs.  For security reasons, users have to push these keys before they enter their passwords to make sure that there aren’t any hidden programs running in the background.

Why does my password have to be so complex?

This is a security precaution.  The longer and more complex a password is, the more difficult it is to crack.  User’s passwords must be at least 8 characters long and must contain 3 out of the following 4 subsets of characters: lowercase letters, uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters.  In addition, users cannot use any of their previous 24 passwords and their passwords cannot contain portions of their usernames or display names.

How do I change my password?

If you are using a PC, you can push CTRL+ALT+DELETE, you will see a button that says Change Password.

What if I forgot my password?

Please contact the Unified Service Desk at 909-593-3511 ext 4130.

What will happen to my network drives?

Users will no longer have drives mapped for them.  Instead, you will find shortcuts placed on your desktop that will point you towards the correct network share you require access to.  The exception to this is the U Drive (U:).  This drive is available so that a user may store files on the network while ensuring those files are backed up and that only that one user can access that network share.