Based in San Jose, Calif., Secure Computing’s SafeWord replaces traditional password-based security. Before, university staff and faculty had to remember multiple passwords. In contrast, Secure SafeWord eliminates the need to periodically remind university users to change their passwords and also the need to reset passwords if the user failed to change it. By pushing the Secure SafeWord button, users can generate a new one-time passcode that can be used with their PIN for authentication.

Secure SafeWord requires two pieces of information for someone to access approved systems: something the user has, in this case, a token card carried by the user and something the user knows, such as a PIN.

The roll out initially involves the university’s Office of Information Technology, which manages the university’s servers and databases, but eventually the new password program will be made available to users throughout the campus.

“Secure SafeWord provides an effective solution to the University’s authentication needs,” said Steve Cawley, vice president and chief information officer for the University of Minnesota. “It reduces risk and potential user frustration associated with fixed passwords.”