Set Up Your Webster Account

Webster University provides an array of technology services to students, staff and faculty. To set up your Webster University account for the first time, follow the steps to register your account, create your password, set up two-factor authentication (2FA) and access Connections and other University technology services.

Access Based on Your Student Status

Your access to Webster University systems and services may vary based on your current student status (for example, applicant, accepted applicant, confirmed candidate or student). As you move through the admission and enrollment process, additional services may become available.

You may not have access to a particular service until you reach the required student status. If you recently completed an admission or enrollment step, access may also depend on your status being updated in University systems.

Connections/Office 365 Account

Connections is Webster University’s intranet portal and provides convenient access to University information, resources and services. Your Connections account is integrated with your Webster Microsoft 365 account, giving you access to tools you need for learning, teaching and working at Webster.

What You Get with Microsoft 365

Webster provides Microsoft 365 access to eligible students, faculty and staff. Your account includes:

  • Webster email and calendar
  • Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
  • OneDrive cloud storage
  • Access to Microsoft 365 applications from supported computers and mobile devices
  • The ability to download and install Microsoft Office applications on eligible personal devices
  • Tools for sharing files and collaborating with classmates and colleagues

Microsoft 365 allows you to access your files and University resources from virtually anywhere.

Activate Your Account

All students, faculty and staff must complete the Connections/Microsoft 365 account registration process.

Account registration matters because your Webster account also supports services such as email, password management and access to other University technology resources.

Follow the account activation instructions below to register your account and begin accessing Connections and Microsoft 365 services.

How Long Will I Have Access?

Students:
Your Connections and Microsoft 365 access remains available for up to one year after the date of your last class attended. Before your access ends, download or back up any personal files or information you want to keep. After the one-year period, you can restore account access only after enrolling in a new course.

Faculty and Staff:
Access to Connections and Microsoft 365 ends on your last day of employment. Before leaving the University, make sure any University information that needs to be retained is properly transferred or stored according to University procedures.

Registering Your Connections/Office 365 Account

Follow the steps below to register your Connections/Office 365 account. If you have problems with this process, call the IT support center for assistance:

Important: The password you choose in the setup process becomes the password for the Connections portal and applications accessed through it.

Get Started With Connections/Office 365 in Just Four Steps.

Go to the portal sign-in page and sign in with the following credentials:

Username/Email: Your Webster email address
Password: Your default temporary password, which will either be:

  1. Your first initial capitalized, last initial lowercase, your Webster ID number and a # sign. (for example, Kc1234567#) or
  2. Your 7-digit student, staff or faculty ID number

If you try both password options but neither one works, please call the Webster University IT support center.

After signing in for the first time with your temporary/default password, you will be prompted to create a new password.

  • Confirm that your full Webster email address (including @webster.edu) appears in the first field.
  • Enter your temporary/default password.
  • Create a new password that meets Webster's password requirements.
  • Re-enter your new password to confirm it.
  • Select Submit.

Your new password will be used to access Connections and other University services associated with your Webster account, including Webster email and WorldClassRoom (Canvas).

For password requirements, password resets or changes to your authentication methods, visit Account and Support Resources.

When you sign in to Connections for the first time, you may see a More Information Required screen. This step is required to set up 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) for your Webster account.

  1. Select Next on the More Information Required screen.
  2. You will first be prompted to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone.
  3. If you prefer another available method, select I want to set up a different method and follow the instructions provided.
  4. Complete the verification process to finish setting up your account.

2-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Webster requires 2FA to help protect your account. For 2FA, you must register an approved authentication method, such as:

  • Microsoft Authenticator on a smartphone
  • An eligible phone number for verification

An alternate email address may be used for self-service password recovery, but it cannot be used as your 2FA authentication method.

Add a Backup Method

We recommend setting up more than one authentication method. Having a backup can help you access your account if your primary method is unavailable.

If you are not prompted to set up your security information during your first sign-in, or if you want to add another method, visit:

Manage Your Security Information

Verify you can log on to the Connections Portal:

  1. Go to Connections.
  2. Enter your full Webster email address and your new password.
  3. Click Sign In.

That's it! To use Office 365, just sign in at portal.office.com or access it through Connections. Microsoft also provides an extensive library of training resources.

Need Help With Your Account?

Once your Webster account is set up, visit Account and Support Resources to manage your account and access commonly used University systems.

You can:

  • Change or reset your Webster password
  • Update your security and authentication methods
  • Access Connections and Microsoft 365
  • Access WorldClassRoom (Canvas)
  • Find additional account and technology resources

Still Need Help?

If you are unable to access your account or need additional technology assistance, submit a support request through Freshservice for assistance from Webster Information Technology.

Account and Support Resources | Submit an IT Support Request

The Importance of 2-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2-Factor Authentication (2FA), also referred to as Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), adds an additional layer of security by requiring two factors to access your online account. Your account password is the first factor. The second factor of authentication is typically verifying your identity via a code on a personal device you are in possession of, such as a mobile phone.

Many times, a password alone is not enough to fully secure your account. Cyber criminals routinely target institutions using hacked credentials obtained via phishing or other fraudulent methods. Though 2FA adds a few seconds to the logon process when off the campus network, this extra layer of security further protects institutional data and your account, while also helping mitigate risks of cyber and phishing attacks.

2-Factor Authentication is now enabled for all Webster accounts and will be required when accessing the following services when off campus:

  • Connections Portal
  • Daily Health Form
  • Office 365 Portal
  • Email

2FA requires at least one of the following authentication methods be activated on your account:

  • Phone Number — either mobile phone or landline
  • Microsoft Authenticator App — authentication app for smartphones that can be downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play Store

Multiple methods are not required but are recommended for backup purposes if possible. You can register up to three phone numbers and can install the Authenticator app on multiple devices.

If you have a phone number designated as your primary and default sign-in/authentication method, you can choose to either receive a text message with a code or have Microsoft call your number for verification.

Please view the section below on how to access a 2FA Resource Page, which will provide you with instructions on how to add 2FA methods to your account.

Please visit the 2FA Resource Page (requires login) within the Connections Portal for additional help and resources with 2FA:

  • Instructions and video tutorials on 2FA
  • Frequently asked questions

You will need to sign in with your Webster email address and password to access the resource page. If you are having issues signing in to your account, contact the IT service desk (314-246-5995 or 866-435-7270 (in the U.S.) or via email at support@webster.edu (in the U.S.) or intl.itsupport@webster.edu (international locations).