ARCHIVED: For SafeWord cards at IU, what is the difference between challenge/response mode and synchronous mode?

SafeWord cards at Indiana University can operate in two different modes: challenge/response and synchronous. Challenge/response mode requires the card user to input a secondary "challenge" from the secure system back into the SafeWord card. Synchronous mode does not require this extra step.

When you log into a system that uses SafeWord authentication, it will know which mode your SafeWord card is using, and will behave accordingly (i.e., you will not be given a challenge if your card is in sychronous mode). Some systems do not have challenge/response capability, and will only function in synchronous mode. If you need access to one of these systems, you must either replace your card or, if possible, have it reprogrammed to use synchronous mode.

To have your card reprogrammed, you or your SafeWord card coordinator will need to send it to the UITS Accounts Administration office. Your reprogrammed card or the first available synchronous card in inventory will be returned via campus mail.

Many SafeWord cards, and all newer cards, can be reprogrammed from one mode to the other. However, if you have a MultiSync card (silver-colored, with "MultiSync" written on the front), then the card is challenge/response only, and is not reprogrammable. To change the mode in which your card operates, contact your departmental SafeWord Card Coordinator, or email  swadmin@iupui.edu  or  safeword@iu.edu .

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