Question

What is the Launch Passcode when defining IPAWS credentials in Everbridge?

Answer

The Launch Passcode is a new Everbridge feature that replaces the existing PIN feature when sending IPAWS alerts. The Launch Passcode is more secure than the PIN feature because its requirements are more complex.

When integrating IPAWS credentials into an Everbridge organization (Settings > Organization > Publishing Options > CAP Channels > IPAWS), you are asked to enter a Launch Passcode in the CREDENTIALS section. Previously this was a PIN.

New Setting: (Launch Passcode)

Old Setting: (PIN)

Note the "Don't Use PIN" option is not available for the Launch Passcode. Once enabled, the Launch Passcode cannot be disabled.

To update from the old PIN system to the new Launch Passcode:

1. Navigate to Settings > Organization > Publishing Options > CAP Channels > IPAWS

2. Click the Get COGprofile option

3. Enter your previous 4-digit PIN when prompted

4. You will then be asked to set a new 8-character Launch Passcode

This update is necessary to resolve issues with sending IPAWS test messages. Once the new Launch Passcode is set, you should be able to successfully send IPAWS test messages.

If you need to change the Launch Passcode later, remove or clear the existing IPAWS credentials on the IPAWS screen, then re-enter your IPAWS credentials; you will be prompted to define a new Launch Passcode. If you have forgotten the Launch Passcode, you can also clear the IPAWS credential fields and re-enter the required IPAWS information to generate a new Launch Passcode.

For more detailed information on integrating IPAWS credentials with an Everbridge organization and setting up a Launch Passcode, see knowledge article EBS: Integrating IPAWS Credentials Into an Everbridge Organization.