Connections Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Connections?
• What is a Connections ID?
• What are the benefits of a Connections ID?
• Is my Connections username and password assigned or do I get to choose them?
• How do I obtain my Connections ID?
• For what do I use my Connections ID?

Q: What is Connections? [top]

A: Connections is a web portal, a single point of access to all the electronic services that Webster University offers. It integrates e-mail, online courses, online registration, grade entry, and billing information into a single web-based interface that can be accessed from any internet-capable computer, using a single username and password (your Connections ID). It also provides personal productivity tools like a calendar, address book, customized content channels and news feeds. There are community collaboration tools including campus announcements and group tools that offer forums for file exchange, discussion, and chat.

Q: What is a Connections ID? [top]

A: It is a single username and password that is assigned to every Webster person. (We often refer to this as a Single Sign-On or SSO.) It will eventually provide access to most of our electronic systems, including e-mail, webmail, WebCT, Online Registration, wireless network access, and the Connections web portal.

Q: What are the benefits of a Connections ID? [top]

A: Some of the benefits of using Connections include:

• Each user only has to remember one username and password.
• If a user forgets his Connections password, it can be reset quickly without having to call the Help Desk.
• Having a single password increases security. If a password is ever misplaced or stolen, it an be reset quickly by the user in central location, without intervention by IT.
• IT can provision services more quickly, because credentials are centrally managed.

Q: Is my Connections username and password assigned or do I get to choose them? [top]

A: Your Connections username is assigned to you.  It is usually some portion of your name followed by the last two digits of our Webster ID number.  You receive a temporary password in the mail which you will use to activate your Connections account.  You then choose your own password during the Connections account activation process.  There are requirements for the password you choose. It must be between 6 and 14 characters, must contain at least one number and two letters within the first 6 characters and cannot contain a word found in the dictionary.  These requirements are for security purposes.

Q: Can I change my Connections username?

A: No, the Connections username is assigned automatically in a manner that prevents duplication of usernames. This username is also used for your Webster email address and webspace. 

Q: How do I obtain my Connections ID? [top]

A: If you are a new student, you are assigned a Connections ID when you enroll in classes. If you are a new faculty or staff member, you are assigned a username when the hiring process has been completed. As soon as your enrollment or hire is complete, Webster will send you a temporary password, known as an activation code. How you receive the code depends upon whether you're a student, faculty or staff member.

When you receive the activation code, you may go to the Connections Account Management web site and set up your account. You will need your student, faculty, or staff ID number that appears on official correspondence from the University and on Webster ID cards, and the activation code you received.

If you encounter problems setting up your account, you may contact our Help Desk at 314-968-5995 or 1-866-435-7270. If you can verify your address, phone number, and other biographical information, you will be issued an activation code that allows you to set up your Connections ID immediately.

Q: For what do I use my Connections ID?  [top]

A: Your Connections ID and password gives you access to your email, WorldClassRoom Online Classes, Connections Web Portal, access to the Webster wireless network, Academic Services and personal webspace.