Passwords are used for the security of all staff and students. Your password must be kept secret and must not be given anyone else – not even to an ICTS staff member. Research, financial and other UCT critical files are saved on network drives and it is therefore important to ensure that only authorised people log on to the network. This means that all UCT staff and students are responsible for keeping the network secure. (Read the UCT Account and Password Policy for full details concerning password policy statements.)

Key features of the password system

  • Most people at UCT will retain the same network password until they decide to change it.
  • You may change your password as often as you wish.
  • Certain individuals – who have privileged access roles on systems such as PeopleSoft and other critical UCT systems – must change their passwords every 90 days.

A permanent password does not necessarily make your network account safer. Large organisations, such as UCT, are always in danger of being targeted by hackers and criminals. We therefore advise you to use a secure password and to remain vigilant about phishing and other security risks.

How to manage your password

At UCT, passwords are managed via Password Self-Service. This platform allows you to manage your UCT network password from any internet-connected location – day or night.

The system has several benefits:

  • You can change your password at any time, from anywhere that you have access to the internet.
  • You don't need to contact the IT Helpdesk, Front Office or a Student lab administrator.
  • The process is fast. Changes you make are effected immediately.
  • If you forget your password, you can reset it using a one-time password (OTP) token which will be sent to your mobile phone or alternate email address.

Visit the ICTS website for step-by-step instructions to manage your password.

Keep your password secure

  • Don't use the same password for all your accounts and applications. If a hacker cracks the password, then you have thrown open the door to everything you hold dear.
  • Keep your passwords secret and treat them the same way that you would your bank PIN.
  • Don't write your passwords down and don't keep them in obvious places. Here are some very useful, secure password saving tools that you can use.
  • Remember that, at UCT, if someone else logs on with your username, any action that they perform will be your responsibility as it will be your account details that were used.