Initial Password Change - %short_descr

Initial Password Change KB0015795

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Setting up your NC State account for the first time is a three-part process. You cannot log in to any NC State services until you set up Duo two-factor authentication (2FA), set up your security questions, and change your password from the default value.

What you will need to get started:

Your Unity ID (your Unity username)
Your campus ID number (your student ID number or employee ID number)
Your default password (sometimes called a temporary password)
- Your default password is the last four digits of your campus ID number, followed by your two-digit birth month and two-digit birth day.
- For example, if your campus ID number ends in 6789 and your birthday is January 31st, then your default password would be 67890131.
At least one device that is valid to use with Duo 2FA (e.g., cell phone, tablet, or security key).
- For the easiest authentication experience, we recommend a smartphone capable of installing the Duo Mobile app.

If you previously had an account with NC State University and are now returning, then your password may not be the default value. Please try doing a self-service password reset to set a new password. If you are unable to answer your security questions or you don't have any set up, then you should contact the NC State Help Desk by submitting a Get Help? ticket in the IT Service Portal or by calling 919-515-4357 (HELP) for further support with your account.

Initial Account Setup Process

Set Up Duo Two-Factor Authentication

Note: Do not start this process until you are sure you have enough time to do it in one sitting. Exiting out of the Duo Mobile setup without completing the other steps below may require you to call the Help Desk to unlock the account.

Go to the Edit Security Questions page.
Enter your Unity ID and your default password. Select LOGIN.
Select Get Started to begin Duo setup.
Select your type of device and follow the on-screen instructions to enroll in Duo.
- It is highly recommended to set up the Duo Mobile app to avoid account lockouts.
- If you have a cellphone that is not compatible with the Duo Mobile app, select Mobile Phone and then Other (and cell phones) as your device, so that you will not be asked to install the app.
Once the Duo setup is complete, you will be directed to set up your security questions.

Set Up Your Security Questions

Choose three security questions.
Set the answers to something that only you would know.
Select SUBMIT. You will get an acknowledgment message when the Security Questions are set.

Change Your Password

Go to the Password Change Form.
Enter your default password into the Current Password field.
Enter your new password into the New Password field. Re-enter your new password into the Confirm New Password field.
- Make sure that your new password is something that only you know. Do not share it with anyone.
Select SUBMIT. Do not refresh or close the page while the password change processes. It may take a few minutes for the form to process your password change. You will get an acknowledgment message when the password is successfully set.

Once your password has been changed, please allow up to an hour for your password to be updated across all of our systems. Unity services, such as MyPack Portal, will typically take less than five minutes to update, but they can still take up to an hour.

Google Account Creation for New Incoming Students

You will not have an NC State Google account created until after you have confirmed your enrollment and have paid the Advanced Enrollment Deposit. Once both are complete, wait two days for your email account to be created.

Get Help

If you need further assistance, you can contact the NC State Help Desk by submitting a Get Help request in the IT Service Portal or calling 919-515-4357 (HELP).