Initialize SafeNet eToken

Jun 13, 2025

Initialize SafeNet eToken

Get Started

• The initialization process is a requirement when:
  • Setting up the SafeNet Token for the first time. 
  • Setting up a new password for locked eToken or forgotten passwords​​​​​​.

  WARNING: The SafeNet eToken requires multiple passwords for authentication. If the Administrator Password is lost, forgotten or entered incorrectly several times, the eToken will be permanently locked. See Password Specification guide for more information.

• Initializing your eToken will delete all certificates currently installed on the token. If you have existing certificates on the eToken, they will be removed permanently and will have to be reissued and installed again. 

Prerequisites

1. GlobalSign-provided USB Token. This is mailed upon ordering GlobalSign's Document, Email or Code Signing Certificate.
2. Downloaded and installed SafeNet Authentication Client in your operating system. This tool is required to initialize your SafeNet USB token. 

Guidelines

1. Insert your SafeNet USB token into your computer.
2. Open the SafeNet Authentication Client Tools. 
3. Click the Gear icon on the top right for Advanced View. This will redirect you to the next window. 
   
   

4. Right-click on your token name and select Initialize Token.
   
   

5. In the Initialize Token - Initialization Options window, choose Configure all initialization settings and policies. Then, click Next to proceed.
   
   

6. In the Initialize Token - Password Settings window, create a new password for your token. Enter and confirm your new passwords. Then, click Next.
   Note: If you DO NOT want to make any changes with the current token password next time you access the token, untick the Token password must be changed on first logon box. 

   IMPORTANT: Token Password is required to access the token certificate store. It can be retrieved using the Administrator Password. Administrator Password is used to manage the token. If lost, forgotten or entered incorrectly several times, the eToken will be permanently locked. The following passwords are recommended to be kept in a secure password manager for easier tracking.

   
   

7. Click OK to acknowledge that all current token contents will be deleted. This will start the initialization process. 
   
   

   WARNING: The token must remain plugged in until the initialization process is complete. Removing the token during the operation will damage it.

8. Click OK to complete the process.
   
   

9. Your SafeNet eToken is initialized. It is now ready to have a Certificate installed.