Password Account Group Policy Change

I have an a "what if" question that I would like to throw out. Assuming a Windows 2003 AD server environment with XP Pro workstations and a Default Domain Policy configured for minimum 6 character passwords. What would happen if we changed the minimum to 8 characters. How would it affect Domain:

Users online?

Users locked out?

Users logged in with locked workstations?

Just want to prepare for this change and wanted to know if anyone has had this experience.

Thanks

 

I'm not sure, but I think they won't notice until they next need to change their password or next log on.

However, in these days of virtualisation there is a simple way to find out - install a 2003 instance on Virtual PC or an alternative like VirtualBox, and an XP instance and have a play.

 

There will be no affect on any user that does not need to change there password.
When their password comes up for change, they will need to use the new length.
Communication, communication, communication.
Start sending Emails to the account holders way in advance of the change, to the point that they complain.
Then when they have to change it, they cannot say they were not notified.


redearl