Changing your Active Directory Password

Before changing the AD password, connect to the lab VPN on your computer first.


  1. Install the LBL Cisco VPN client available here https://software.lbl.gov. 
    1. You must login with your LDAP (think LBL Gmail, GCal) login name and password. 
    2. Click "IT Supported Downloads" in the menu on the left and then "Cisco VPN" in the list on the right. 
    3. Download and install the client as appropriate for your Operating System.
      Full guide on how to install LBL VPN.
  2. Reset your AD password - this can be done from any computer that is connected to the LBL network
    1. Go to https://password.lbl.gov in your web browser of choice. 
    2. You want to "Change your Windows Active Directory (AD) Password:" (click the link underneath)
    3. Follow the directions on the page. Please Note: The Current password field is your "old" password (this is the one you are currently using or a temporary password that was set up for you).
    4. Once all the Red X's are gone click "Save" to submit the change.
      Note: At this point, you have changed your Active Directory password, but your off-site computer does not know about it yet.
  3. Synchronize your computer with your new password.   
    1. You can continue to log in using your 'old' password.
    2. Connect to the LBL VPN
    3. Your computer will automatically connect to the AD controllers and detect that your passwords is out of sync.
    4. A notification in the system tray (near the clock in the lower right-hand corner). 
    5. Click the notification, and follow the on-screen instructions:
      1. Lock your computer by pressing the Windows key + L.
      2. Unlock your computer using your new password.
    6. The passwords are now synchronized. You can now use your new password to log into your off-site PC.

Resetting an Expired Active Directory Password

If your password has expired, you will need to contact the Help Desk to reset it:

  1. Chat with Help Desk by clicking on the blue chat icon in the bottom right corner of this screen.
  2. Send an email to [email protected]
  3. Call the Help Desk at (510) 486-4357