First Time PennWest Account Set Up / Forgot Password

When logging in for the first time you’ll need to set your password (follow steps in PART 1) and then configure your Multi-Factor Authentication (follow steps in PART 2).

PART 1:  SET YOUR PASSWORD

Go to https://passwordreset.microsoftonline.com/?username=@pennwest.edu

A. Enter your entire PennWest email address and the characters shown in the picture. Click "Next."

‍

‍B. Select from the options provided and Microsoft will send you a verification code.

‍

‍C. Enter the verification code and click "Next."

‍

‍D. Enter your new password twice and click "Finish."

Password Requirements

• Password must be at least 12 characters in length.
• Password must be different than the previous 10 passwords.
• Password must contain at least 2 additional type of character: Number, Capital Letter, or “Special Character” in addition to Lowercase Letters.
• Password expires in 1 year
• Passphrase – It is recommended that you use a passphrase which is a series of random words which may not include spaces. Example: CorrectHorseBatteryStaple5

Reminder: Make sure you update each of your devices that use your PennWest account with your new password!

PART 2:  CONFIGURE YOUR MULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION

IT Services highly recommends using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.

If you don’t already have the Microsoft Authenticator app, you must first install it on your mobile device.

• Android Devices: Google Play Store
• Apple Devices: Apple App Store

Go to https://aka.ms/mfasetup

‍
A. Enter your entire PennWest email Address, and Click “Next”

‍

‍B. Enter your PennWest Account Password and click “Sign In”

‍

‍C. Verify your identity by receiving a text with a verification code.  Enter the Code and press “Verify”

‍

‍D. You will now be prompted to set up Microsoft Authenticator as a primary authentication method

Note: If you change your phone, change your phone number, uninstall the Authenticator app, or have a problem with the Authenticator app - you will need to contact IT Services to have the MFA on your account reset

‍

‍E. Once the Microsoft Authenticator app is installed, click “Next” on the next two screens:

‍

‍F. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device

G. Choose “Add Account” then “Work or school account” and lastly “Scan a QR code”

H. Scan the QR code on your computer screen with your mobile device

‍

I. Approve the notification sent to your mobile device

J. Click “Next”

‍

K. Click “Done”

‍

Your First Time PennWest account setup is now complete.