Farmington Hills: (248) 286-1166
You’re working at the office on the company network and get prompted to change your password. You follow some basic steps and you’re all set. However, how does this process work if you’re working remotely or off the company network? Here are seven quick steps to successfully change your password remotely while keeping your company accounts secure.
1. Connect to a VPN
Before changing your password, connect to a secure VPN client. Your company may already have a VPN network set up for remote employees to safely access the company network. If not, consider using a trusted virtual private network service to securely connect to the internet.
If you forget this step, your password will change on your PC but may not change across the system or network. That will cause you to get an incorrect password error the next time you try to log in. You’ll also be unable to log in to email and other apps that use your Windows password.
2. Change Your Password
Once you’re connected to a VPN, you’re ready to reset your password. We encourage you to choose one with some complexity. You must use several characters; the exact number depends on your company’s policy. The system will prompt you to choose a new password if the one you selected is not long or complex enough.
Here are some guidelines to help you create a secure password:
- Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters
- Include numbers and special characters
- Avoid using personal information like your name or birthdate
- Do not reuse passwords from one site or application to another—they should ALL be unique and difficult to guess
3. Update Password on All Devices
Don’t forget to update passwords on all of your devices! Many people make the mistake of only changing their password on their work computer and forgetting about tablets, phones, and other devices that also need access to the network. This step is crucial to avoid any login issues or potential security breaches.
Regularly updating your passwords across all devices not only enhances security but also helps keep your personal and professional information safe from unauthorized access. To remember this step, you could schedule password updates on your calendar or set a reminder on your phone.
5. Consider Using a Password Manager
If you’re having trouble keeping track of all your different passwords, consider using a password manager. These tools securely store and generate complex passwords for all your accounts, making it easier for you to maintain strong and unique passwords without the hassle of remembering them. Plus, they often include features like password sharing and security audits.
The most common password managers used in businesses are:
- LastPass
- NordPass
- 1Password
- Dashlane
- RoboForm
6. Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication
To further enhance your account security, consider setting up multi-factor authentication. This requires an additional form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or touch ID, before accessing your account.
The extra layer of protection (especially if it’s bio-metric) makes it nearly impossible for hackers to access your account even if they have your password. More and more businesses are adopting multi-factor authentication as a standard security measure, so it’s worth investing in now.
7. Test for Functionality
Once you have changed the password on all devices, added any additional security features, and saved it somewhere safe, log out of your computer and back in using your newly created password to verify it’s working. If you still encounter any issues or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact your IT support team immediately for assistance.
Gain Unmatched Network Security With Safety Net
Changing your password remotely may seem less secure than in a typical office setting, but by following these steps and taking extra precautions, you can ensure your accounts remain secure. At Safety Net, we specialize in providing the highest quality network security solutions for businesses of all sizes. Protect your valuable data and confidential information by partnering with us today.
