ITS Office of Information Security

Passwords

  1. Home
  2. Passwords

App State Password Management

Appalachian State University will never ask you for your password via email.  You will never need to validate, revalidate, or confirm your account.  Additionally, App State will not delete your account nor stop delivering or sending your email.  

The only account management you will need to perform is password changes, which are done via the password manager: https://password.appstate.edu

  • A passphrase is a kind of password that uses a series of words.
  • Passphrases are more difficult to be hacked than passwords.
  • If you choose to use a password instead of a passphrase, make sure it is long.
  • Never reuse passwords or passphrases.
  • Don’t share passwords or passphrases.

Need help creating a passphrase? Try Use a Passphrase for a fun & easy way to create a new passphrase. You can even see how long it takes for your passphrase to be cracked/guessed.

Password Managers

Problem: Too Many Passwords to Remember

  • You have to remember many passwords
  • You need a password for a multitude of websites, your email account, network logins, etc.
  • You should use a different password for each account

Solution: Use a Password Manager

  • Password managers store your login information for all the websites you use and help you log into them automatically.
  • They encrypt your password database with a master password - the master password is the only one you have to remember!

Some popular and trusted password managers include: KeePass (OIS-recommended & Free), 1Password, LastPass, Bitwarden, Dashlane & Keeper.  Each of these Password Managers use highly advanced encryption and private security for your passwords.  While these tools are recommended, this software is not supported by App State.  

When To Change Your Password

Have you entered your password when using unsecured wireless?  Have you recently returned with your computer from another country?  

If so, change your password at https://password.appstate.edu when you have a secure connection.  

We know it’s a challenge to set up a new password, but having your account hacked is worse! See our tips for creating a secure password on our support page.

For more information, contact the Help Desk.