Q - Who do I contact if I'm having difficulty accessing the MCOLES network?

A - The first place you should check is the MCOLES web site at the Network Status page.  If we are experiencing any difficulties with the system, we will post an announcement in the Network Status Update. If no known problems are described there, please call the MCOLES Help Desk at 517-322-5615.

Q - How do I get access to the MCOLES Information and Tracking Network?

A - It is necessary for each User Agency to execute a User Agreement with MCOLES in order to use the system. Since the system contains information subject to privacy regulations, the User Agency Head must identify persons authorized to conduct business transactions with MCOLES. These individuals, and the agency head, must execute Operator Agreements with MCOLES. Network forms are available to fill out and print from the MCOLES website. Once the completed documents are received at MCOLES, access rights will be created for authorized operators. Operators will be notified of their login information in writing.

Q - How do operators learn to use the MCOLES Information and Tracking Network?

A -  Mandatory training for law enforcement agency operators is usually offered once a month in Lansing. Training schedules are available on the MCOLES website and and enrollment in a training session can be done by filling out the electronic form on our website.  Due to the importance of system integrity and security, the only method of obtaining a logon identification and password is through training.

Basic training academy operators and in-service training provider operators are able to access the User Guide  through a link within the system once they have received their User ID.

Q - How do I find the MCOLES Network on the Internet?

A - We recommend that you access the MCOLES Network through our web site at www.michigan.gov/mcoles . From our Home page, select the link in the left tool bar entitled "MCOLES Network". This will take you to the "Welcome to the MCOLES Network Home Page". 

Q - Where do I create an Internet Explorer Favorite or Bookmark to access the MCOLES Network?

A - Please create your Favorite or Bookmark on the Network Login Page page. This will give you an opportunity to review the Network Status Updates for important system messages each time you log in. Please do not set your favorite on the page where you enter your login ID and password; this can cause access problems.

Q - Why can't I access the live, production database using the Login ID and password I created during training?

A - All classroom training for authorized Network operators is conducted using the development, or ‘test', database. The password you create during training is only valid for that database. The first time you log into the ‘live', production database you should repeat the instructions given to you in your letter of authorization. Once you have successfully logged in, you will be required to create a new password.

Q - What are the rules for creating a new password?

A - A Network password must be a minimum of 6 characters in length and must contain a combination with at least one number and one letter. Authorized operators are encouraged to create a new password frequently; however, the system will automatically expire a password within 180 days of creation. A reminder message will appear on the login screen each time you log in starting approximately one week before the password expires.

Q - Are there any rules that will affect my ability to log into the Network?

A - Yes, there are security rules in place that may affect your ability to log in.

• You are allowed three (3) attempts to log in successfully. If, for some reason you are unable to log in after 3 tries, your account will be locked and you must contact the MCOLES Help Desk to reactivate your account.
  
• If you log into the Network but leave your computer inactive for 30 minutes, the system will automatically log you out. Simply log back in and you will be able to continue with your work.
  
• Any ‘inappropriate' exit from the Network will cause a 45-minute delay before you can log back in again. A proper exit from the system is a two step process. First you click on the Exit MITN link, then you must close your browser to complete the process. If, for example, you accidentally close you browser first or temporarily lose your Internet connection, the database assumes that you are still logged in and will not allow another login until the 45 minute delay has passed. An error message indicating that ‘the user is already logged in' will be displayed when this situation occurs.

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PLEASE NOTE:
If you are unable to log onto the MCOLES Network and receive the following error message: "Error establishing encrypted connection to mcoles-mitn.state.mi.us  Error code - 12210", use the following Solution to Error Message. to correct the problem.