Password randomization

In previous versions of Arellia Management Server (AMS), you could randomize passwords using server-side tasks; these tasks still work, but they can be run on server schedule by using Quick Run or the Run Now feature. Additionally, policies can be applied to clients to be run on a client-side schedule. The settings for policies are the same settings that you would find under tasks, but with an additional "scheduling" feature.

It is a common practice that large enterprises define a single, static password for use across thousands of computers. Given the ease with which even extremely complex passwords can be compromised, the disclosure of passwords can jeopardize the security of an entire enterprise. Randomizing and cycling passwords is an easy and secure way that large public and private enterprises can ensure that security breaches do not occur. Randomizing passwords includes:

• The password change interval: The frequency that passwords are changed.
• The password complexity: The minimum length of passwords combined with the use of alpha-numeric characters.

The Randomize Password Policy enables administrators to generate random passwords automatically, in a schedule, for a defined collection. In a worst case scenario, if a password somehow becomes compromised, the compromised password allows access only until the randomization period expires, and more importantly, access only applies to one computer.