Re: Question on student user accounts

[Jorgen Madsen <jorgen.madsen () USASK CA>]

Several years ago we adopted the format abc123 where abc are somewhat based
on the individual's

initials followed by 3 random digits. We call this identifier an NSID
(Network Services Identification).

The NSID is never reused and only rarely changed. If an individual returns
at any point they will

receive the same NSID. Since we offer alumni email for life, they continue
using the same NSID

for as long as they want the service.



Jorgen Madsen
Server & Database Services
Information Technology Services
University of Saskatchewan
201 Peterson Bldg
105 North Road
Saskatoon Sask

Email: Jorgen.Madsen () usask ca
Phone: (306)966-4851
Fax: (306)966-2376

  _____

From: Fretz, Kerry [mailto:fretzk () PHILAU EDU]
Sent: June 21, 2005 8:37 AM
To: SECURITY () LISTSERV EDUCAUSE EDU
Subject: [SECURITY] Question on student user accounts



Our institution has been using a specific format for student network
accounts for many years.  Our format has always been the last name followed
by a sequential number.  For example, we would use SMITH11, SMITH12, SMITH13
with the email set as the same format.  After the user would graduate, we
would remove the accounts and eventually, the username would be reused by
another incoming freshman.  This has created some issues over the years.



I was just curious what you are using for the network username format at
your institution and what you've found that works well for you.  Do you
reuse network accounts or do you have a unique username for each student
coming in?



Any input is appreciated.



Kerry Fretz

Manager, Network & Systems

Philadelphia University