Accounts & Access (NetID)

Think of your NetID as your digital key and your CWID as your official university serial number:

• Your NetID is your username. It is a custom, system-generated string derived from your name. You use it alongside your password and Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to log into active digital systems like Wi-Fi, NEST, email, and Canvas.
• Your CWID is your Campus-Wide ID number. It is a strict 8-digit numerical code assigned to you. After you claim your NetID, always use it to log into Montclair systems. Your CWID will no longer be used as a login credential.

Your access to services tied to your NetID will eventually expire after you graduate or separate from the university.

• Timeline: 2 major semesters (Fall and Spring)
• What you may lose access to: Your Montclair email, cloud storage (Google Drive), online learning platforms, library resources, and software licenses.
• Action Steps: You must save or migrate personal files and set up email forwarding before the deactivation date. 

You will be issued both a student and employee NetID. To differentiate between the two, the student account will have a number at the end and the employee account will not.

To make sure you can access your account and recover it if needed, keep the following information current:

• Personal email address
• Mobile phone number (used for Duo Multi-Factor Authentication and account recovery)
• Emergency contact information

Your mobile number is especially important for Duo MFA and account recovery, so please keep it up to date.

Where to update your information:

• Faculty, Staff, and Emeriti: Update your information in Workday.
• Students and Affiliates: Update your information in NEST.

You can change or reset your password at any time using the NetID Account Management Center.

• Password resets require identity verification

• Duo authentication may be required during the process
• Your personal email and mobile number must be up to date for account recovery

Keeping your contact information current is required for secure access.

 First, confirm you are using the correct NetID and password. If the issue continues, try resetting your password via the NetID Account Management Center and then sign in again.

 Passwords must meet university security requirements, including length and complexity rules. Make sure your password meets all required criteria.

General requirements

• Minimum 10 characters (or longer passphrases recommended)
• Combination of letters, numbers, or symbols
• Maximum length: 128 characters
• No leading or trailing spaces

1. Clear your browser cache and cookies. A previous incorrect entry may be causing issues, even if your answer is now correct.
   • Google Chrome
   • Android
   • Safari
   • iPhone
   • Microsoft Edge
   • Mozilla Firefox
2. Review your answer carefully. Security question answers must match exactly. Even a single incorrect letter, missing character, or typo can result in an error.
3. Double-check the question. The system may present different security questions each time. Take a moment to read the question carefully and make sure you're answering the one currently displayed.

• Students: Once per year
• Faculty/Staff: Every six months

You will receive notifications before your password expires.

No. Passwords are securely stored and cannot be viewed by IT staff.

Never share your password or Duo codes if you receive a text, call, or email requesting them.

Change your password immediately and review your account for any unexpected changes. Take action quickly to help protect your account.

NetID Account Management Center

If you notice unusual activity—such as unexpected Duo prompts, login alerts, or emails sent from your account—reset your password immediately and report it via the Duo Mobile app or contact the IT Service Desk.

You may be temporarily unable to access university systems until the issue is resolved.

• Too Many Failed Logins: Entering the incorrect password X amount of times. This is a security measure against hacking.
• Compromise Detected: Information Security may lock your account if they detect it has been compromised.
• Affiliate Change: The account may be locked when your formal affiliation ends (e.g., graduation).

• Temporary Lockout (Failed Logins): If the lockout is due to failed logins (10 consecutive), you will be unlocked after one hour.
• Other Reasons (Compromise, Expiration): You will need to contact the IT Service Desk for assistance. 
  • You will be required to verify your identity in order for your account to be unlocked.

 A generic email account is a shared university email address used by departments or offices, rather than an individual. It is used for managing shared communications and inquiries.

Generic Account Center