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How Do I Get A University Directory Account?

Contents

• What is a Directory ID?
• For what is the Directory ID be used?
• What is a Secure Password?
• Where can I get Help?
• I am a New User and Need to Set up my Directory ID and Password
• How do I change my University Directory Password?
• I forgot my password, how do I change it?
• I want to see my University Directory Entry, how can I find it?
• I want to change my Security Questions and Answers

What is a Directory ID?

The University of Maryland has implemented an identification procedure that replaces the use of a full social security number. This identification is based on parts of an individual's first and last name and will identify this person (on campus) for life.

For what is the Directory ID be used?

Campus uses the Directory ID as part of its identification process to allow an individual access to multiple accounts. All individuals associated with campus have a free e-mail account called Mail@umd.

In addition, faculty and staff can use their Directory ID to sign into some of the following accounts:

• ARES
• Timesheets
• Oracle Calendar (formerly known as Corporate Time)
  • Please note Oracle Calendar has both on-line and off-line agendas that can have separate passwords
  • Click Resetting Your Oracle Calendar Offline Password , if you wish to reconcile the passwords
• UMEG
• ELMS
• WAM
• Glue

Students will use the Directory ID to access their various accounts:

• Testudo
• ELMS
• WAM
• Glue

Note: While different accounts use the same Directory ID for log on, those accounts may have different passwords. All services mentioned above will use the Directory ID to log on. If you change the Directory ID password, it changes globally for all services. In addition, while the log on password for Oracle Calendar is determined by your Directory ID password, Oracle also has an offline password. This password is not changed globally; it must be changed manually.

What is a Secure Password?

A secure password is one that is hard for someone to break. Some examples of a bad password are: 12345678, abcdefgh, and joesomebody (a friend's name). Passwords should never consist of real or dictionary words (in any language), any word that is associated with you (e.g., your street address or friend's name), or your mother's maiden name.

A good password consists of random letters and numbers created in such a way that nobody can run a program against it in order to "crack" the password. It is common that passwords be changed every three months. One way to help you remember your password to your accounts is to think of the title of a book, a song, or a poem. It must contain a minimum of 8 words. Then, take the first character of each and that will be your password. keeping this phrase in your mind helps you remember the letters and numbers you are using until you will need to change it. NEVER give your password to anyone - not even your best friend.

Where can I get Help?

For questions and help walking through the pages, please contact the Office of Information Technology (OIT) Help Desk.