NetID & Email
Cornell NetIDs
A Network ID (or NetID) is a personal, unique identifier assigned to you. It consists of your initials followed by one or more numbers. You use it, along with a password, to obtain secure access to online services.
Beginning in December your NetID and activation code will be mailed to you after the university receives your admission response and, if applicable, deposit. You are expected to activate your NetID immediately.
Your Email Options
Email service for students at Cornell is provided through Cmail (Google Apps Education Edition). Along with email, Google Apps Education Edition includes calendar, collaboration, and other tools. Learn more about Google Apps Education Edition.
As a new student, you will set up your email account when you activate your NetID. Your email address will look something like this—ewe1@cornell.edu—where "ewe1" is your Cornell NetID.
You can choose Cmail and/or provide a valid, alternate email address where email sent to yourNetID@cornell.edu will be directed. This will ensure that you don't miss important university communications.
Regardless of which email option you choose, you can still use the collaboration services offered through Google Apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I forget my password?
Passwords are kept in an encrypted database, and cannot be looked up by anyone.
If you set up your password's security questions in advance, you can go to
the Manage
Your NetID web page to set a new password yourself.
If you did not set up your password's security questions, you will need to request a new activation code so that you can reset your password. To make this request, visit the CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk) in person, or mail or fax your request to that office. You will need to provide proof of identity — your Cornell ID card or your valid government-issued photo ID card (such as a driver's license or passport), or a photocopy of one of these.
If you make your request by mail or fax, your NetID and an activation code to set your password will be mailed back to you within five (5) business days. Your NetID and activation code cannot be sent by email, telephone, or fax machine.
Is it OK to let my family or close friends use my NetID and password?
No. NetIDs are for students' exclusive personal use. It is a violation of university
policy to share NetIDs and passwords with anyone, including family members.
If someone knows a student's NetID and password, he or she can look up and/or
change personal and confidential information and violate federal privacy laws
through the student's account.