At the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, your digital identity is the key to accessing campus technology securely and efficiently. It’s made up of three essential components: your user name, password, and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Together, these elements form a strong foundation for protecting your personal information and ensuring safe access to UWM systems.
See the sections below to learn more about each part of your digital identity. If you have questions or need assistance, contact the UWM Help Desk.
User Name (ePantherID)
Your UWM user name, also known as your ePantherID, is assigned during the account activation process. It’s automatically generated based on your name and ends with @uwm.edu.
If you’re unsure of your user name or experiencing login issues, contact the UWM Help Desk for assistance.
Password
To maintain account security, UW System Administrative Policy 1030 requires that you change your UWM password every 365 days.
Need help managing your password? The UWM KnowledgeBase offers step-by-step guidance:
Creating a strong, complex passphrase is essential to protecting your digital identity. For full details, review the Password Complexity Requirements. Here are a few best practices to keep in mind:
- Use a passphrase, the longer, the better.
- Include special characters and get creative (c@r, $hell, t!me).
- Add numbers, but avoid easily guessed ones like birthdays.
- Never reuse passphrases across different platforms.
- Use a unique passphrase for each account.
- Consider a password manager to securely store your credentials.
You’ll only receive password expiration notifications on official UWM login pages such as Canvas or PAWS. Always change your password through a trusted UWM login page.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection by combining something you know (your password) with something you have (like a mobile device). All UWM accounts are required to use MFA.
Choose the guide that fits your role:
Sponsored Accounts, Emeritus, and Annuitants
If you haven’t enrolled in MFA yet, you’ll be prompted to do so when signing in. Visit the Faculty/Staff MFA page for setup instructions and review the Microsoft MFA FAQ for additional support.
More resources:
- Sponsored Account Information
- Creating a Sponsored Account
- Microsoft 365 Services by Account Type
- Resources for Retirees
Identity Verification
To protect sensitive data, the UW System may require additional identity verification for users accessing critical applications. This process helps confirm your identity but does not grant additional access to UW System services.
Before You Leave UWM
Students
Student accounts remain active for two semesters after you’re no longer enrolled. After that, you’ll receive a notification about your account closure and loss of access to email and files.
If you were employed by UWM as a TA, academic staff, or university staff, your account will close immediately upon departure. If you held a student hourly or assistant role, your account will remain active for two semesters.
For steps to save your data before your account closes, visit the Account Closure KnowledgeBase article. For help, contact the UWM Help Desk.
Employees
Employee accounts are deactivated immediately upon leaving UWM, and associated data is permanently deleted.
If you taught a class during your final semester, your account will remain active for 90 days after the term ends.
Visit the Account Closure KnowledgeBase article for guidance on preserving your data before departure. For help, contact the UWM Help Desk.
Retirees/Annuitants
Retiring faculty and staff may request continued access to their accounts. Review the Annuitant Account Terms of Service to learn what services are available and how to request access. For help, contact the UWM Help Desk.