MAC ID FAQs
What is MAC ID?
MAC ID is your unique, common identifier, single sign-on for a number of McMaster systems and applications. It is an important step in working together as one University, the creation of a University without boundaries, the enhancement of the student experience and the transformation to a client-centric services delivery model.
This is the first positive step that will benefit the entire University community by allowing us to offer a common authentication mechanism that is the core building block to one sign on for all services we offer you the client resulting in service excellence and the advancement into portal technology.
The MAC ID is a University Technology Services assigned identifier and is not the same as your student or employee number. If you have forgotten your MAC ID, use the Forgot Your MAC ID utility to display your MAC ID or contact the Service Desk for assistance.
Why do I need a MAC ID?
You need a MAC ID for access to services that utilize MAC ID for authentication. As an example McMaster StudentMail and UnivMail are services that use MAC ID for authenticating valid email account holders.What are the benefits/features of having a MAC ID?
- You have fewer account names and passwords to remember. Use your MAC ID username and password to access a variety of services like email.
- MACID provides individuals with the ability to manage their passwords via the web securely from anywhere. This reduces the need to visit the Service Desk for a password reset.
- Allows you to set three personal challenge questions which can be used to reset forgotten password at anytime and from anywhere.
- Utilizes a strong password strength requirement to improve security. To learn more visit Best Practices for Passwords.
Do I have a MAC ID?
Yes, every McMaster employee has a MAC ID. You already have a MAC ID if you use just one of these services:
- MacConnect/MacSecure
- Avenue to Learn
- Central Office Servers (commonly known as AP1)
- VPN
- Calendar Depot
If you are not sure you have one, use Verify Your MAC ID to check. You will be asked to provide certain types of information. Alternatively you can contact the Service Desk at extension 24357.
What is the link between UnivMail and MAC ID?
UnivMail and Studentmail use your MAC ID for authentication. If you are an employee and have a UnivMail email account, your UnivMail and MACID passwords are the same.
Why are Personal Challenge Questions important?
The personal challenge question tool is an important enhancement. Setting up your 3 personal challenge questions will allow you to change your MAC ID password when forgotten. It will save you a trip to the Service Desk for a password reset. Remember to keep confidential your personal challenge questions and answers. To set you challenge your Personal Challenge questions now click here.
What are the MAC ID Password Strength Requirements?
MAC ID Passwords must be a minimum of 8 characters in length and include characters from at least three of the four groups below:- Uppercase letters A, B, C, ... ,Z
- Lowercase letters a, b, c, ...,z
- Numerals 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Symbols found on the keyboard: (All keyboard characters not defined as letters or numerals)` ~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ + - = { } | [ ] \ : " ; ' < > ? , . /
Although Windows passwords can be up to 127 characters long, it is recommended that you keep passwords to 14 characters or less. See the IT Security page for more information.
You are reminded to protect the confidentiality of your MAC ID and associated password. Please treat them the same way as you would your bank account PIN. Do not share them with anyone. If you suspect that your MAC ID or password has been compromised, please contact the Service Desk immediately at 905-525-9140 extension 24357.
How do I setup a service to use MAC ID?
Faculties and departments interested in using MAC ID to enable access to other technology services can request access on line at http://www.mcmaster.ca/uts/appforms/macid.html. If you have any questions, please contact the Service Desk at extension 24357 or send email to uts@mcmaster.ca.
Notice
Upgrade your MAC ID password today
McMaster is strengthening its password system and all MAC ID passwords established before February 19, 2013 must be changed.
- Upgrade before
May 29, 2013
Service Desk
| Hours: | Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm |
|---|---|
| Phone: | 905-525-9140 x24357 (2HELP) |
| Email: | uts@mcmaster.ca |
| Location: | Main Campus BSB Rm. 245 |
| Service Catalogue: | |
| http://www.mcmaster.ca/uts | |
Service Bulletins
- There are no Service Bulletins at this time