Why SecurID Tokens are Used

Administrative Information Services (AIS) mandates the use of a SecurID token to access centralized administrative systems. These systems are IBIS, ISIS, WebADIS, ADIS, ROSCOE, TESTAIS and various eLion functions that require faculty input. A SecurID token is part of a two-level authentication process:

• The first level is the verification of the  userID and AIS password
• The second level is the six-digit (SecurID) number that is generated in a pseudo-random fashion every 60 seconds

In addition, the IP address of the machine you are using must be in the AIS IP filter for unencrypted access. Since AIS provides access to essential administrative data, using a SecurID token ensures the integrity of the data and the identity of the user.

In some cases, Data Stewards may require that a SecurID token be used for accessing their specific data elements regardless of read or update access.

When a SecurID Token is Not Required

• The token is not required when updating personal information within the PH Directory. Only a userID and Access Account password are needed
• The token is not required to update personal information within any of the Office of Human Resources (OHR) Employee Benefits screens
• The token is not required when accessing read-only AIS systems

If a SecurID Token is Going to Expire

Approximately 30 days before your card expires, you will receive a message instructing  you to order a new token.

How to Order a SecurID Token

SecurID Tokens Now Available at the Computer Store
Beginning Feb 1, Penn State departments will be able to order SecurID tokens conveniently online through the Computer Store. SecurID tokens are used to provide secure access to centralized administrative systems at the University, such as IBIS, ISIS, ADIS, ROSCOE, TESTAIS and eLion. Previously, SecureID token orders could only be placed through the AIS Help Desk via IDCC but the two groups have worked together to make this change so that it will be more convenient for faculty and staff to order and obtain their tokens. Departments that wish to purchase new SecurID tokens can order them online via Penn State's eBuy Web site (at http://www.ebuy.psu.edu/), or directly on the Computer Store site (at http://computerstore.psu.edu) using a purchasing card. Faculty and staff can chose to have the tokens delivered at no charge or pick them up at the Computer Store in 12 Willard Building after being notified that the order is ready. Faculty and staff also have the option of purchasing their tokens in person at the Computer Store. Prices will remain $31 for each token.

What to Do Should Your SecurID Token Malfunction

In the event that your SecurID token begins to malfunction with at least 6 months remaining on the expiration date (located on the back of the token) stop by the Computer Store at 12 Willard for a replacement or for additional information contact them at 814-865-2100 or 800-251-9281 or email computerstore@psu.edu for further instructions. The token should not be returned through interoffice mail. Any token that has been physically damaged will not be replaced.

Handling of the SecurID Token if Leaving or Transferring

If you are transferring within the University or leaving the University, the SecurID token should be returned to your ASR or to the person who issued the token to you. The token may be reassigned to another person in the same area.  Because the funds used to purchase the token came from a specific department, it must remain in that area.  A token may only be assigned to one person at a time.

    Assignment of SecurID Tokens

The AIS Support Center will continue to handle the assignment of SecurID Tokens to users.  This can be done by emailing AIS-Support@psu.edu  a list of user name, userid, psu id and the token serial number, or call the Support Center at 814-863-2276.