Reset Your Campus Password or Unlock Your Account Using Microsoft Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR)

Overview

If you cannot sign in to your campus account, you can use Microsoft’s Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) portal to reset your password or unlock your account.

Use SSPR if you:

  • Forgot your password
  • Need to change an expired or expiring password
  • Are locked out after too many failed sign-in attempts
Important:

Do not use SSPR if you have no verification methods set up (phone, email, or authenticator app) or cannot complete the verification prompts.

If this applies to you, contact the ITS Service Desk in Warner 023 or call (518)-255-5800.

Start Here

  1. Go to https://aka.ms/sspr.
  2. Enter your campus email address (username@cobleskill.edu).
  3. Complete the CAPTCHA verification.
  4. Select Next.

Option A — Change Your Password

Use this option if you forgot your password or it has expired.

  1. On the Why can’t you sign in? screen, select I forgot my password.
  2. Choose a verification method (text message, voice call, email, or Authenticator app).
  3. Enter the verification code or approve the Authenticator notification.
  4. If prompted, complete a second verification method.
  5. Create a new password that meets campus security requirements.
  6. Select Finish.
Tip:

Wait up to 1–2 minutes for the new password to synchronize across campus systems before signing in again.

After resetting your password:

  • Sign in again to campus services.
  • Update saved passwords on all devices (phone, laptop, tablet).

Option B — Unlock Your Account

Use this option if you know your password but your account is locked.

  1. On the Why can’t you sign in? screen, select I know my password, but still can’t sign in.
  2. Choose a verification method.
  3. Enter the verification code or approve the Authenticator prompt.
  4. After confirmation, try signing in again.
Warning:

If you still cannot sign in after unlocking your account, return to the SSPR portal and complete the I forgot my password process to create a new password.

If You Cannot Complete Verification

Try another verification option

  • Select Use a different verification option on the screen.
  • Choose another method such as phone, email, or Authenticator.

If no options work:

  • Your phone number may have changed
  • Your Authenticator device may be lost
  • Your account may not have verification methods enrolled

Contact the ITS Service Desk in Warner hall or call (518)-255-5800 for assistance verifying your identity and re-enrolling your security methods.

Tips for Creating Strong Passwords and Passphrases

Strong Password Strong Passphrase
  • At least 15 characters long
  • randomized letters, numbers, symbols
  • Does not contain your username or real name
  • Does not contain complete dictionary words
  • each password you use is unique
  • 20–30 characters long
  • A series of unrelated words forming a phrase
  • Not a quote or song lyric
  • Does not include personal information
  • each passphrase you use is unique
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