What are the requirements for a CalNet Passphrase? How do I reset my Passphrase?

General Passphrase Rules

CalNet offers two passphrase options: the regular passphrase and the long passphrase. The following rules apply to both options:

• No Reuse: You cannot reuse a previous passphrase; the system will reject any passphrase used in the past.
• Complexity: Your passphrase should not contain standard dictionary words, common patterns (e.g., "123", "abc", "qwerty"), or repeating characters (e.g., "111", "aaa").

Regular CalNet Passphrase Requirements

Your passphrase must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 12 characters long (maximum 255).
• Include spaces if desired.
• Contain at least three of the four following character groups:
  • Uppercase letters (A-Z)
  • Lowercase letters (a-z)
  • Numbers (0-9)
  • Symbols/special characters (!, $, #, %, etc.)

Prohibited Items:

• Must NOT contain your first, middle, or last name.
• Must NOT contain your CalNet ID.
• Must NOT contain leading or trailing spaces.

Long CalNet Passphrase Requirements

If you prefer a longer passphrase (often easier to remember as a sentence), the requirements are simplified:

• Must be at least 20 characters long (maximum 255).
• Must NOT contain your first, middle, or last name.
• Must NOT contain your CalNet ID.
• Must NOT contain leading or trailing spaces.
• Note: There are no specific character-type requirements (e.g., no requirement for a symbol or number) as long as it meets the length minimum.

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Reset your CalNet Passphrase

Use the self-service tool at mycalnet.berkeley.edu:

1. Click on Forgot My CalNet ID/Passphrase.
2. Select your account type (Student, UCPath, Alumni, etc.).
3. Enter your ID number or recovery email address.
4. Complete the "Verify you are human" check and click Request reset.

If you are unable to use the self-service tool:
Email your full name and student or employee ID number to calnet@berkeley.edu for assistance.

Note: You can only use the self-service manager if you have a recovery email address on file.