--- title: "Passphrase/Password Requirements" canonical: "https://tech.calpoly.edu/space/CPKB/2425396/Passphrase%2FPassword%20Requirements" format: markdown --- To log in to your Cal Poly account, our systems require you to select either a passphrase or a password. > ⚠️ **Visit ****[Passphrase/Password Help](https://calpoly.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/CPKB/pages/2424940)**** if you can't log in to your Cal Poly account.** > ℹ️ ### **While you can continue using a traditional password, we strongly encourage switching to a passphrase. ** > ℹ️ > ℹ️ This involves combining multiple words into a long string of at least 16 characters. The extra length of a passphrase makes it harder to crack while also making it easier for you to remember. ### Passphrase/Password Requirements Infographic (click image to view/download) ![An infographic displaying requirements for Cal Poly passwords and passphrases. Passphrases must be between 16-40 characters, and cannot contain any previous passphrases within the last two years. Passwords must be between 12-15 characters, and cannot contain common words, character groups, names, or previous passwords. The infographic also states that passphrases and passwords expire every 400 days, and remind viewers to update them on all relevant sites.](media://736e86e3-6c45-4ccc-9be2-92bde20ac2b6) ## **What are the requirements for a Passphrase?** --- ## **What are the requirements for a Password?** ## How Often Do I Need to Update My Passphrase/Password? The **expiration period is 400 days**, allowing you to reset your passphrase/password on the same date each year if you choose. > ⚠️ **After you reset/update your passphrase/password, don’t forget to update it anywhere it may be saved to prevent a temporary lock on your Cal Poly account, including:** > ⚠️ > ⚠️ - All devices, including desktops, laptops, and mobile devices (phones, tablets, etc.) If you have a state macOS computer, learn how to [update the device password](https://calpoly.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/CPKB/pages/964001911). > ⚠️ - Email programs > ⚠️ - Wi-Fi settings > ⚠️ - Password managers > ⚠️ - Web browsers ---