How admins can enforce password changes for local user accounts?

This article provides guidance on how an admin can force a user to change their password by enabling the "User must change password" option in their local user account settings. With this option activated, users will be required to update their passwords upon their first login attempt. Note that this option is not selected by default, and the password change prompt will appear only if it has been enabled.

Resolution for SonicOS 7.X

This release includes significant user interface changes and many new features that are different from the SonicOS 6.5 and earlier firmware. The below resolution is for customers using SonicOS 7.X firmware.

1. Click Device in the top navigation menu.
2. Navigate to Users | Local Users & Groups.
   
3. Under Local Users Tab.
4. Add/Edit the user.
5. Enable the option : User must change password
   
   NOTE: If this is checked the user will be prompted to change their password at next login and will not be allowed to log in until they do. 
   
   
6. Click Save.

Resolution for SonicOS 6.5

This release includes significant user interface changes and many new features that are different from the SonicOS 6.2 and earlier firmware. The below resolution is for customers using SonicOS 6.5 firmware.

Login to the SonicWall Management GUI.

1. Click Manage in the top navigation menu.
2. Navigate to Users | Local Users & Groups.
   
3. Under Local Users Tab.
4. Add / Edit the user.
5. Enable the option : User must change password
   
   
   NOTE:  If this is checked the user will be prompted to change their password at next login and will not be allowed to log in until they do. 

Resolution for SonicOS 6.2 and Below

The below resolution is for customers using SonicOS 6.2 and earlier firmware. For firewalls that are generation 6 and newer we suggest to upgrade to the latest general release of SonicOS 6.5 firmware.

Login to the SonicWall Management GUI.

1. Navigate to Users | Local Users
2. Add / Edit the user.
3. Enable the option : User must change password
   
   NOTE: If this is checked the user will be prompted to change their password at next login and will not be allowed to log in until they do.