Frequently Asked Questions (NetID)

What is a University NetID?

A University NetID is an automatically-assigned, unique electronic identifier for each community member at Georgetown. Having a NetID does not automatically grant access to all computer systems or services. In many cases, it is still necessary to apply for access to a given system or service after the NetID has been created.

Who is eligible for NetID services?

NetIDs are automatically assigned to all individuals who are active in the University’s core business systems for employees, students, alumni, associates. Georgetown University Hospital (GUH) employees. volunteers, contractors and other people not paid through the Payroll department can also have a NetID. Different services will be available to each person, depending on their affiliation with the University.

How are University NetIDs created?

New NetIDs are generated at several points throughout the day. NetIDs are created using the person’s initials as entered in the core business system, along with a number to distinguish the NetID. Individuals who were part of the Georgetown community in 1998 when the system was created, retain their Novell e-mail usernames as their NetID.

Why does Georgetown have a NetID system?

Centralized identity management ensures that a given NetID is not assigned to more than one person. Having a system of automatically-created NetIDs shortens the time required to create user accounts.

Why is my NetID in the form of initials and numbers?

Georgetown’s NetIDs are used not only for e-mail, but as usernames to log in to a variety of computer applications. The fundamental characteristics of a NetIDs are that the NetID is unique, automatically-generated, and easier to remember than a random user name.

Can I change my NetID?

NetIDs are only changed in the small number of cases where a typographical error in the spelling of a person’s name has occurred or the NetID spells an offensive word. Changing a NetID requires a great deal of coordination, effort, and care to ensure that a person’s access is not unduly interrupted and that the change is properly reflected through all systems which use NetIDs.

At this time, it is not possible to select your own NetID.

Why must my NetID password be so complicated?

Passwords are used to control access to Georgetown University systems, networks, applications, accounts, and data. A compromised password not only puts your email and files at risk, but may also expose sensitive University data and systems. With your NetID password, someone could not only send email that appeared to come from you, but they could view your salary information, bank account numbers for those using direct deposit, or post grades in GU Experience.

What if I have more than one NetID?

NetIDs are created for every person active in any of the core business systems–GMS (Human Resources), Banner and Destiny (student systems), the alumni database, the Sponsored University Associate (SUA) system, and the Georgetown University Hospital (GUH) Human Resources system.