I recently came across a Google spreadsheet that I had no access to because the person who created it forgot to add me as a collaborator. This got me thinking about how much more secure it would be if we could force reset passwords in Google Apps Script. So, here’s a script that will do just that!
What can you do with Apps Script?
Apps Script is a powerful tool that lets you automate tasks. You can use it to access many of the features available in G Suite, such as Gmail, Calendar, Drive and Docs. You can also build your own apps using Apps Script and share them with others.
Apps Script uses JavaScript for its programming language–the same language used by websites like Facebook or Twitter. This makes it easy for developers who know how to write web apps (or “web scripts”) to build new functionality into their G Suite accounts without needing any additional training or skillset beyond what they already have from working with JavaScript on other sites before.
Scripts for Google Sheets and Drive
You can use Apps Script to write scripts for Google Sheets and Drive.
A script is a set of instructions that automates tasks in Google Sheets and Drive. For example, you could write a script that automatically downloads data from your website every night, or creates new folders based on date ranges in your spreadsheet.
You can also create custom functions in your scripts that do things like calculate values or validate input data before running any other code in the function body (which may include another function).
Create a new script.
- Create a new script in Apps Script.
- Create a new script in Google Sheets.
- Create a new script in Google Drive.
Create a function for password reset.
You’ll need to import a few libraries and create a function to reset the password. To do this, follow these steps:
- Click Script Editor in the Google Sheets app.
- In the top left corner of the script editor window, click Blank Project or select an existing project from your shelf.
- Click Add Library > JavaScript Utilites > Apps Script Libraries > Google Cloud Platform OAuth2 Client Library for Apps Script (v1).
You will see an example script called “hello world” that provides an introduction to writing apps in JavaScript. Delete this code so that you are left with just one line of text: `function helloWorld(){}`. This empty function is where we will write our own code!
Set up variables that will be needed later.
Variables are like containers for data. They can be used to store values, like numbers or strings of text, so that you can use them later in your script.
You will need to set up some variables before you start writing your code:
- The username and password of a Workspace user who has admin access (you)
- The current date and time
Get the user name and email address of the user who needs to have their password reset.
To get the user name and email address of the user who needs to have their password reset, use the GetUsers() function. You can use this function with a list of user names or by passing in an array with one or more strings representing usernames:
- `GetUsers([ “username1”, “username2” ])` returns an array containing all users whose names match those provided.
- `GetUsers([“username1@example.com”, “anotheruser@gmail.com”])` returns an array containing both users whose names match those provided (and only those).
Create a new folder in Drive to store the reset file.
In a web browser, go to Drive and click on the New Folder button at the top of your screen. Then type in the name of your new folder (for example, “Reset”).
Click Create
This script gives you access to many more advanced features that are not available to regular users of Google Apps.
Apps Script is a JavaScript-based scripting language you can use to automate tasks in Google Apps. It’s similar to other programming languages like Python and Ruby, but it has its own unique syntax and special features that make it particularly useful for writing scripts for your Google apps.
Apps Script has several advantages over using the built-in methods of automating tasks:
- It allows you to run programs directly from your browser without having to install any software on your computer or mobile device (e.g., Android app). This means that you don’t have to rely on a separate app just for running scripts; instead, they’re always accessible by simply visiting the script editor page on gmail/drive/docs etcetera!
- You can write more sophisticated code than what’s available through the user interface alone.* Apps Script supports accessing many more advanced features which aren’t available through standard user interfaces (UIs) such as working with multiple tabs simultaneously via Chrome DevTools Extension API
Google Apps Script is a powerful tool that can be used to create scripts for Google Sheets and Drive. With Apps Script, you can access many more advanced features than regular users of Google Apps have access to.
Outline of the Article:
I. Introduction
- Introduce the significance of password management in Google Workspace.
- Explain the importance of ensuring secure passwords for users.
II. Understanding the Need for Password Resets
- Discuss common scenarios where users might need password resets.
- Highlight the security risks associated with weak or compromised passwords.
III. Exploring Google Workspace Security Features
- Discuss the existing security features in Google Workspace.
- Explain the admin capabilities for managing user accounts and passwords.
IV. Introducing Google Apps Script
- Provide an overview of Google Apps Script and its role in automation.
- Explain how Google Apps Script can enhance Google Workspace user management.
V. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Force Reset Google Workspace Users’ Passwords with Apps Script
- Provide detailed instructions on writing a script to force reset user passwords.
- Explain the necessary permissions and access requirements.
- Include code snippets and explanations for each step.
VI. Best Practices for Secure Password Management
- Discuss best practices for creating strong and secure passwords.
- Explain the importance of regular password updates and user education.
VII. Automating Password Reset Reminders
- Discuss how to automate password reset reminders using Google Apps Script.
- Provide code examples for setting up automated email reminders.
VIII. Handling User Concerns and FAQs
- Address common concerns users might have regarding password resets.
- Provide answers to frequently asked questions about password security.
IX. Conclusion
- Summarize the importance of secure password management in Google Workspace.
- Emphasize the role of automation through Google Apps Script.
- Encourage administrators to implement strong password policies and educate users.
How to Force Reset Google Workspace Users’ Passwords with Apps Script
I. Introduction
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, ensuring the security of user accounts is paramount. For Google Workspace administrators, managing user passwords efficiently and securely is a critical task. This article delves into the world of password management within Google Workspace and explores how Google Apps Script can be utilized to force reset users’ passwords, enhancing the overall security posture of the organization.
II. Understanding the Need for Password Resets
Password resets are often necessary in cases of forgotten passwords, compromised accounts, or employees leaving an organization. Weak or compromised passwords pose significant security risks, making regular password resets a vital security practice.
III. Exploring Google Workspace Security Features
Google Workspace provides robust security features, allowing administrators to manage user accounts effectively. Understanding these features is essential for implementing a comprehensive security strategy.
IV. Introducing Google Apps Script
Google Apps Script empowers administrators with automation capabilities. Its ability to interact with various Google services, including Workspace, makes it a powerful tool for streamlining user management tasks.
V. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Force Reset Google Workspace Users’ Passwords with Apps Script
In this section, we’ll provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how to write a Google Apps Script to force reset Google Workspace users’ passwords. We’ll cover the necessary permissions, coding techniques, and best practices to ensure a smooth password reset process.
VI. Best Practices for Secure Password Management
Managing passwords is not just about resetting them; it’s also about enforcing strong password policies. We’ll discuss best practices for creating secure passwords and the importance of regular updates. Educating users about password security is crucial for maintaining a secure environment.
VII. Automating Password Reset Reminders
Automating password reset reminders can significantly enhance security. We’ll explore how Google Apps Script can automate email reminders to users, prompting them to update their passwords regularly. We’ll provide practical examples and code snippets.
VIII. Handling User Concerns and FAQs
Addressing user concerns and questions about password resets is vital for a smooth transition. We’ll cover common concerns and provide clear, user-friendly answers to frequently asked questions.
IX. Conclusion
In conclusion, ensuring the security of Google Workspace accounts is a shared responsibility between administrators and users. By harnessing the power of Google Apps Script, administrators can automate and streamline the password reset process, enhancing security and user experience. Regular password updates, strong password policies, and user education are key elements in maintaining a secure digital environment. Implementing these practices not only safeguards user accounts but also contributes to a resilient and secure organizational infrastructure.
FAQs About Google Workspace Password Resets
Q1. Can users reset their passwords themselves in Google Workspace? Yes, Google Workspace allows users to reset their passwords through the self-service password recovery option. However, administrators can also force password resets for users when necessary.
Q2. How often should users update their passwords? It’s recommended to update passwords every three to six months. Regular password changes reduce the risk of compromised accounts.
Q3. What should users do if they forget their new password after a forced reset? If users forget their new password, they can follow the standard password recovery process or contact the organization’s IT support for assistance.
Q4. Is there a way to enforce two-factor authentication along with password resets? Yes, Google Workspace supports two-factor authentication (2FA). Administrators can enforce 2FA for added security, requiring users to provide an additional verification method along with their password.
Q5. Are there any tools available to audit password security within Google Workspace? Google Workspace provides security tools and reports that administrators can use to monitor user accounts and assess password security. Regular audits help identify weak passwords and enforce stronger security measures.
