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It would be really nice if Apple provided a way to change your password in an OD environment that was as reliable as Windows CTRL-ALT-DEL and Change Password.

Yes, I know, System Preferences. Well, the issue there is, it's not reliable, it's kind of fragile, and to be honest, it's one of the few times when Windows wins at UI efficiency over Mac OS X. Seriously:

Manually change your password in Windows:

1. Press CTRL-ALT-DELTE


2. Click on "Change Password..."


3. Change your password

Manually change your password in Mac OS X (in Leopard):

1. From the Apple Menu/Dock/Finder Open System Preferences


2. Click on "Accounts"


3. Click on "Change Password"


4. Change your password

Windows further wins in the rock-solid reliability of the process. On Windows, you change your password, it's changed. Period. As long as your account isn't locked out, it's going to work. (I've been running Windows networks for a loooong time kids, Unca John is not guessing here. Changing Windows passwords is simpler and more reliable than on a Mac.)

On a Mac, if your KDC is throwing "KDC Policy Rejects Request" errors, that won't change the Kerb. password. In fact, you won't be able to change it in Kerberos.app. You'll have to reset the password on the server, then change it from the client, and then it's just a fucking mess. The password change mechanism in Mac OS X is still far too fragile for our own good. But it's not sexy, and I doubt too many people have filed bugs on it, so...yeah.

Sometimes folks, Windows is better than Mac OS X. Welcome to reality.

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