NSCC Password Requirements

Summary

To protect personal information and maintain the security of institutional systems, all NSCC account passwords must comply with established password policy requirements. This article outlines the approved password standards and related security recommendations.

Body

Password Requirements

All NSCC passwords must meet the following criteria:
  • Must be between 16 and 20 characters in length.
  • Must contain at least:
    • One uppercase letter
    • One lowercase letter
    • One number or symbol
  • Must not contain:
    • Your name
    • Portions of your name
    • Any previously used password
[servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Unsupported Characters

The following characters cannot be used in NSCC passwords
 
 
@ \ ‘ “ { } ~ |
 
Passwords also cannot contain:
  • Spaces
  • Tab characters
[servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Password Security Best Practices

To improve account security, consider the following recommendations:
  • Use a unique password that is not used on other websites or services.
  • Create a pass phrase that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.
  • Do not share your password with anyone.
  • Update your password immediately if you believe your account has been compromised.
  • Store passwords securely using an approved password manager when appropriate.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

When accessing NSCC resources from off campus, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) must also be configured and used to verify your identity. MFA provides an additional layer of protection beyond your password. [servicedesk.nscc.edu]
For MFA enrollment instructions, refer to:

Troubleshooting

Password Does Not Meet Requirements

Verify that your password:
  • Is between 16 and 20 characters.
  • Includes uppercase and lowercase letters.
  • Includes at least one number or symbol.
  • Does not contain prohibited characters.
  • Does not include your name or a previously used password.
[servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Unable to Update Password

If you receive an error while updating your password:
  • Review the password requirements carefully.
  • Confirm prohibited characters are not being used.
  • Try creating an entirely new password rather than modifying a previous password.
  • Contact the Service Desk if the issue continues.
[servicedesk.nscc.edu]

Support

For assistance with password changes, password resets, or account security concerns, contact the Service Desk:
Email: ServiceDesk@nscc.edu
Phone: 615-353-3678
[servicedesk.nscc.edu]

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Details

Details

Article ID: 20085
Created
Fri 7/31/26 1:35 PM
Modified
Fri 7/31/26 1:35 PM