First-Time Account Access

Go to the portal sign-in page and sign in with the following credentials:

Username/Email: Your Webster email address
Password: Your default temporary password, which will either be:

A. Your first initial capitalized, last initial lowercase, your Webster ID number, and a # sign. (for example Kc1234567#)
OR
B. Your 7-digit student, staff or faculty ID number

If you try both password options but neither one works, please call the Webster University IT support center.

After logging in for the first time with your default/temporary password, you will receive a message that your password has expired and needs to be updated. Please do the following:

1. Make sure your full Webster email address appears in the first box (including the @webster.edu).
2. Re-enter your temporary/default password in the second box.
3. Type in a new password for your account. Please note it must meet the criteria listed on the bottom of the page.
4. Retype in your new password to confirm.
5. 5. Click Submit.

• Your new password should be at least 12 characters long, contain both capital and lowercase letters, a number and one special character.
• Remember, the password you set becomes the password for the Connections portal and applications accessed through it, including Canvas/WorldClassRoom and your Webster email.

Change/Update Password — Passwords must be updated every 180 days per University policy. This will require you to enter your current password. If you do not know your current password, use the Forgot Password link.

Forgot Password — If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it. Enter your full Webster email address and the character code presented, and click Next. You will be asked to verify one of the security/authentication methods you set up when you activated your account. Please remember that passwords need to be at least 12 characters long, contain both capital and lowercase letters, a number and one special character.

Update Security/Authentication Methods — Use this link to update, add or remove your current security/authentication methods for your account. For example, if you change the phone number you use for your account authentication, it is important to update this information. You will need to log in with your full Webster email address and password. It is recommended to have at least two methods set on your account.

When logging in to Connections for the first time, you will be taken to a More Information Required screen to set up a security/recovery option for your account. Click the Next button. It will default to asking if you want to download Microsoft Authenticator. This would require downloading the App from the Apple or Google Play store on a smartphone. If you do not wish to do this, click on the link that says "I want to set up a different method." This will then allow you to choose to call or text a mobile number, email an alternate email address or set up security questions. Choose your desired option and follow the instructions. With the University's implementation of 2-Factor Authentication (2FA), you will not be able to skip this step. 2FA will require you to register either a phone number (cell phone or landline) or configure the Microsoft Authenticator App onto a smartphone. An alternate email address can only be used for the purposes of self-service password reset, and is not an accepted authentication method for 2FA.

If you are not prompted to set up a security option, go to the security options page. There, you can also set up one more security method, which is recommended so that you always have a backup method to access your account.

Verify you can log on to the Connections Portal:

1. Go to Connections.
2. Enter your full Webster email address and your new password.
3. Click Sign In.

That's it! To use Office 365, just sign in at portal.office.com or access it through Connections. Microsoft also provides an extensive library of training resources.

2-Factor Authentication (2FA), also referred to as Multi-factor Authentication (MFA), adds an additional layer of security by requiring two factors to access your online account. Your account password is the first factor. The second factor of authentication is typically verifying your identity via a code on a personal device you are in possession of, such as a mobile phone.

Many times, a password alone is not enough to fully secure your account. Cyber criminals routinely target institutions using hacked credentials obtained via phishing or other fraudulent methods. Though 2FA adds a few seconds to the logon process when off of the campus network, this extra layer of security further protects institutional data and your account, while also helping mitigate risks of cyber and phishing attacks.

2-Factor Authentication is now enabled for all Webster accounts and will be required when accessing the following services when off campus:

• Connections Portal
• Daily Health Form
• Office 365 Portal
• Email

2FA requires at least one of the following authentication methods be activated on your account:

• Phone Number — either mobile phone OR landline
• Microsoft Authenticator App — authentication app for smartphones that can be downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play Store

Multiple methods are not required but are recommended for backup purposes if possible. You can register up to three phone numbers and can install the Authenticator app on multiple devices.

If you have a phone number designated as your primary and default sign-in/authentication method, you can choose to either receive a text message with a code or have Microsoft call your number for verification.

Please view the section below on how to access a 2FA resource page which will provide you instructions on how to add 2FA methods to your account.

Please visit the 2FA Resource Page (requires login) within the Connections Portal for additional help and resources with 2FA:

• Instructions and video tutorials on 2FA
• Frequently asked questions

You will need to sign in with your Webster email address and password to access the resource page. If you are having issues signing in to your account, contact the IT service desk (314-246-5995 or 866-435-7270 or via email at support@webster.edu).