Passwords are kept in an encrypted database and cannot be looked up by anyone – including Cornell IT administrators and support representatives.

If You've Previously Set Up a Recovery Email Address or Security Questions

If you have set a recovery email address or security questions, go to the NetID recovery page.  Enter your NetID, click Submit, then select Recover Password. 

If you haven't yet set up a recovery email address, it's recommended to do so as soon as is convenient. 

When Can You Not Use a Recovery Email Address?

This option is not available if any of the following happened:

• You forgot your password and have not yet set a recovery email address.
• Your account has been hijacked by a hacker who logged in as you and changed your password and recovery email address.
• The IT Security Office determined that your password has been compromised, and scrambled it to stop further abuse. For more information and a possible automated recovery option, see If the Security Office Locks Your Account After Detecting It's Compromised.

In these cases, you will need to request a new activation code so that you can reset your password.

To make this request, contact the IT Service Desk to set up a video chat. During the chat, you will need to provide proof of identity, like your Cornell ID card or a government-issued photo ID card, such as a driver's license or passport.

As soon as you have reset your password, set up a recovery email address so that if you have trouble with your password again, you can change your password on your own.