@swig46 - You can view and read any discussion on Connect without being a member. To post or reply to a discussion or another post you must be a member. This is for the privacy and security of all Connect members. A login with an email address and a password is required for a member to log into Connect which enables you to post to discussions, reply to other member posts or create new discussions. I can't think of a good reason for creating a shorter password. Here is some information on why you want to create a strong password - https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/internetsafety/creating-strong-passwords/1/#.