Your Account

New Students and Swansea University IT Account Information

Introduction

You are required to set up Multifactor Authentication (MFA) so that your account is secure. MFA allows you to verify your identity using security information or authentication methods. It is a required step in setting up and maintaining your account.

Setting up MFA to prove your identity will also allow you to reset (in the case of a forgotten password) or change your password by using Self Service Password Reset (SSPR) at any time without needing further assistance. For more information about how to set up MFA click here.

If you require further assistance, please contact the Digital Service Desk. Please note that for calls relating to account security, you will need to phone us on 01792 604000 so that we can verify your identity.

Important Information

Before Logging In

Before you login to your account for the first time, you should download the Microsoft Authenticator app on a mobile device e.g., a smart phone or tablet, and not the device you will usually use to work or study e.g., your PC or laptop.

Please make sure that you have notifications enabled on your mobile device.

The Microsoft Authenticator app is available in both the Google Play and Apple App Store. The icon, when downloaded will look like this:

The logo for the Microsoft Authenticator app. It has a blue background and a white padlock image

For MFA to work, the Microsoft Authenticator app must remain installed on your device. If you uninstall it, and you do not have a backup authentication method set up, you will not receive the prompts required to verify your identity.

Login

The first time you login, you will need to use your University student email address (your student number @swansea.ac.uk) as the username and the temporary password already provided to you.

You should login to your account for the first time by going to hwb.swansea.ac.uk and clicking on the Login icon.

A button featuring the text Login

After logging in successfully, you will be asked to change your password. This is not optional. Set a strong password with at least 8 characters that is meaningful to you, but hard to guess.

Here are some tips for setting strong passwords:

• Choose a mixture of 3-4 words

• Do not use a single word (e.g., Swansea)

• Do not select a weak password (e.g., containing the words password, swansea or other words associated with you such as family names)

• Do not use a commonly used phrase (e.g., letmein)

If you do not set a strong enough password, it will be rejected. Your password will not change and you will be invited to try again until it meets the requirements. The guidance above should allow you to choose an appropriate password.

Setting Up Multi Factor Authentication

Setting up multi factor authentication.

Set Up a Second Method

I want to add a second authentication method.

Changing Your Password

After you have setup MFA you will be able to use Self Service Password Reset (SSPR).

If you have forgotten your password or expect that your details have been compromised, please use this link: https://passwordreset.microsoftonline.com/

If you know your password but would like to change it, please use this link: https://account.activedirectory.windowsazure.com/ChangePassword.aspx

Further Assistance

If you need further assistance or advice on other authentication methods, please contact the Digital Service Desk.

Existing Students IT Account Information

You can control your MFA methods at any time by logging in to MyApps and selecting Secure My Account. You will receive an MFA prompt.

You can then use the Add Method option under your Security info and follow the on-screen instructions. You can also choose to delete a method (for example, a phone number you no longer use) and change your default option. We recommend using either the Microsoft Authenticator – notification or phone call options as these allow you to use the Remote Access PC service.

A screenshot of a Security Info page. The Default sign-in method is Microsoft Authenticator - notification. A redacted phone number is also featured

Please note: if you intend to change your device or phone number, please ensure you have added a backup / secondary method so you can access to your account.

What happens to my account when I leave the University? Find out what you need to do before your account closes.