Transcript
2009
GE T Connected @
Northwestern University Your guide to computers, e-mail, networking, and technology on campus.
NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
ABOUT Get Connected This booklet contains some basic information about e-mail, passwords, software, and other computing-related topics that you will need to know about while you are a student at Northwestern.
IMPORTANT! This information will help you a Choose a computer a Set up and use your e-mail account a Connect to the NU Network on and off campus a Learn safe computing habits
You can also read this booklet online at .
Table of Contents Get to Know NUIT
Where can I go for technical support? Computers What kind of computer do I need? Can I get a student discount? Hardware Recommendations School-Specific Requirements Can I ship my computer to my residence hall? NU Network What is my NetID? What if I forget my NetID or password? How do I access my NU e-mail services? Connecting in Res Halls How do I connect to the Internet? Are rooms wired for telephone service? Connecting Around Campus Where can I find wireless access on campus? Where can I find computer and media labs? How can I take NU “to go”? Connecting Off Campus How do I connect to the NU Network from off campus? What is VPN and why do I need it? Computer Security What about file sharing? Five Steps to Computer Security Online Tools Before You Come to Campus Checklist Interested in Working at NUIT?
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Get to Know NUIT Northwestern University Information Technology (NUIT) is here to help with the many technology resources at Northwestern University (NU). Keep this booklet handy and you’ll always be connected. The NUIT Web site is your one-stop technology resource at NU. Bookmark it at .
TIP: Click on the “Students” link on the left to find resources geared specifically towards you. Where can I go for technical support? • The Support Center is open to all faculty, staff, and students. Call the NUIT Support Center at 847-491-HELP (1-4357), chat with a Support Center Consultant online, or e-mail . • Laptop ER allows you to get tech support for virus or connectivity issues without having to visit the Support Center. For times and locations, visit . The NUIT Support Center can’t fix hardware problems or reinstall operating systems, but it can help you find a repair service, including the new Apple Store at the Norris Bookstore on campus.
Computers What kind of computer do I need? All computers should meet NUIT’s minimum recommendations, outlined on the next two pages, to access Northwestern resources.
NOTE: Some programs have specific requirements, so check the guidelines for your school on page 8. Desktop or laptop? Most students find it easiest to use a laptop at NU; since much of the campus is wireless, you can connect to the NU Wireless Network from just about anywhere. Windows or Mac? Take your pick, NUIT supports both operating systems.
Can I get a student discount? • Find vendors who offer discounts at . • Northwestern offers software that is either free for download or available for the best prices around* at . *Prices subject to change.
Hardware Recommendations PC Laptops Processor
Intel Core 2 Duo, 2.26 GHz or faster
Memory
2 GB RAM
Hard Drive
At least 160 GB SATA hard disk (7200 RPM)
CD/DVD
Dual Layer DVD+/-RW Drive
Ethernet
10/100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit) Ethernet
Wireless
802.11b/g/n wireless (WPA2 compatible)
Video Card/VRAM
128 MB video RAM; For Windows Vista, add DirectX 9 graphics with a WDDM driver
USB Ports
At least 2 USB 2.0 ports
Operating System
Microsoft® Windows XP Professional Service Pack 3 or Windows Vista Business edition
Warranty
3 year onsite next business day and complete damage recovery warranty
Mac Laptops Processor
MacBook 2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Memory
At least 2 GB RAM
Operating System
Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard)
USB Ports
At least 2 USB 2.0 ports
Warranty
AppleCare Protection Plan
NOTE: These are minimum recommendations. Please confirm any updated requirements before you make a purchase at .
School-Specific Requirements School of Communication School of Continuing Studies School of Education and Social Policy Feinberg School of Medicine School of Law Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences For the schools above, computers should meet NUIT guidelines.
Kellogg School of Management For information on computing at Kellogg, incoming Kellogg graduate students should see Kellogg’s Welcome site for admitted students at .
McCormick School of Engineering & Applied Science Computers should meet NUIT guidelines. Most new students will have to purchase a copy of MATLAB software for the Engineering Analysis course sequence. You can download MATLAB and the necessary toolboxes for a reduced price at: .
Medill School of Journalism Medill students will receive a letter outlining specific requirements based on student status (new, returning, and graduate), as well as detailed ordering and purchasing information. For the latest information, please see .
Henry and Leigh Bienen School of Music Computers should meet NUIT guidelines and be equipped to play streamed media with software such as QuickTime or Flash. Students should also have a good pair of headphones or a small sound system. Other peripheral devices may be helpful, such as a small USB keyboard for keyboard skills work and other courses, and music printing software to augment standard word processing titles for preparing papers.
Can I ship my computer to my residence hall? If you live in a residence hall and want to ship your computer at your own risk, follow these guidelines. • Request an arrival date of September 10, 2009. Items arriving before this date will be returned. • Obtain tracking information, proof of delivery, and insurance. • Ship your computer to your address: Student Name Residence Hall Name Street Address, Room Number Evanston, IL 60201 This service is provided as a courtesy only. The package center will try to deliver small packages to your room before September 15 or they will be held in storage at your residence hall’s mail room. If you have questions, contact Residential Life at 847-491-3541 or .
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NU Network What is my NetID? A Northwestern NetID is your passport to the Northwestern Network, an array of Web sites, resources, and online tools. When you receive your NetID and activation code in the mail, go to . 1. Use the activation code to activate your NetID. 2. Set your NetID password. 3. Choose your security questions. 4. Activate your @u.northwestern.edu e-mail account.
What if I forget my NetID or password? If you forget your NetID, call the NUIT Support Center at 847-491-HELP (1-4357). They will confirm your identity and remind you of your NetID. If you forget your NetID password… 1. Choose “Reset Password” at . 2. Enter your NetID. 3. Answer the security questions you set up when you first established your NetID. 4. Reset your password.
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How do I access my Northwestern e-mail services? Once you’ve activated your @u.northwestern.edu account at , just log in at . Your @u.northwestern.edu account also gives you access to calendaring, instant messaging, and document, spreadsheet, and presentation applications. Read more about collaboration at .
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Connecting in Res Halls How do I connect to the Internet? Residence hall rooms are all wireless-enabled. Configure your computer before you arrive. Learn how at . To avoid connection problems, follow the Five Steps to Computer Security on page 19.
NOTE: University policy strictly prohibits routers, network extenders, or installing your own wireless network. Read this policy at What kind of TV service is available? Watch TV from your computer with Northwestern University Television (NUTV), which comes to you via the NU Network. • To view NUTV, bring a maximum 25-foot Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the network jack in your room. • Find out more about NUTV, including available channels, at .
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Are rooms wired for telephone service? Since most students bring cell phones to campus, University-provided landline service in student rooms is available on a per-request basis.
NOTE: Emergency devices are readily available throughout the residence halls for emergency 911 access. Cell Phones Find information about cell coverage on campus and choosing a plan at . Some companies offer discounts on plans or phones; see carriers that offer NU discounts at Landline Service Request landline service by contacting University Housing at . If you choose this service, you must bring your own standard phone with you to campus. Learn more at .
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Connecting Around Campus Where can I find wireless access on campus? Northwestern has more than 1,300 wireless access points on campus. Look for the “Wireless Access” signs, or view a complete list of locations at .
TIP: For safe and secure connections, use the University network SSID “Northwestern.”
Where can I find computer and media labs? Wherever you are on campus, a computer lab is not far away. • Learn about Media Works and Info Commons at the University Library at • See University computer lab locations at . Contact your school or program for additional locations.
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How can I take NU “to go”? In addition to the collaboration services associated with your new @u.northwestern.edu account, NUIT also offers a host of opportunities to enhance your academic and campus life and bring NU with you, wherever you go.
Northwestern on iTunes U Northwestern YouTube NUIT to Go NUIT Tech Talks For more information about mobility at Northwestern, including how to set up your mobile devices to use University resources, visit .
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Connecting Off Campus How do I connect to the NU Network from off campus? It’s simple: first get Internet service, then use VPN. Choose an Internet Service Provider for either cable modem, digital subscriber line (DSL), or dial-up access. To find out more, and research the best plan for you, visit .
What is VPN and why do I need it? Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows you to securely connect to the NU Network and all University resources from off campus. VPN is included in your operating system and easy to configure. Find instructions at .
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Computer Security All students have a responsibility to use University resources in a safe, secure, and legal way. Keep your NetID and NetID passphrase/password secret and respect the rights of other users of the NU Network. Don’t get caught by surprise; review policies and guidelines at .
What about file sharing? The best rule of thumb is to assume you cannot download or distribute anything you find on the Internet unless you have written permission, such as a license agreement. Downloading streaming video from questionable Web sites also puts your computer at a high risk for catching a virus. To learn more, visit .
NOTE: For your protection, and the security of the NU Network, do not share software or music files even when you legally purchase them. If you do, you will lose the right to access the NU Network.
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GET Five Steps totoComputer 5 E asy s tEps C omputEr Security s ECurity
Protect the NU Network, and secure your computer with these easy steps: Northwestern University Information Technology
www.it.northwestern.edu
Step 1: Start Now Before you get to campus, make sure your computer is free of security threats. When you move to campus, the first time you attempt to log on to the NU Network, Northwestern’s NetPass system will check your computer for selected security risks. If it detects a risk, your computer will be quarantined until the problem is fixed. Learn more at
Step 2: Secure Passwords/Passphrases A quick and secure way to pick a password is to use a passphrase, a secret sentence that you can easily remember and is unique to you. This results in a longer and more unusual password that is tougher for hackers to crack. Find tips at .
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Step 3: Protective Programs NUIT provides Symantec antivirus products with automatic updates free for download to ensure that your machine is continually protected. You should also use Spybot – Search & Destroy to avoid spyware. Find links to downloads at .
Step 4: Secure Settings For hassle-free security, set your computer to automatically install software patches and updates. Instructions are online at .
Step 5: Smart Habits Be aware of what you download, post online, and transfer via portable devices (flash drives, mp3 players, or PDAs). Get tips to be cybersmart at .
TIP: Protect your computer from theft. Keep your laptop safe in your room by using a security cable to tether it to an object that is not moved easily. On campus, keep your laptop in your sight at all times. Read more details about how to Get Control at . 20
Online Tools NUIT — Quick links to many NU technology resources, specifically for students. University Online Directory — Find contact information for all faculty, staff, and fellow students. CAESAR — Register for classes and manage other aspects of your Northwestern career through the Computer Assisted Electronic Student Access Route. Course Management System — Use this class-specific tool to share files and discuss topics. @u.northwestern.edu — The ultimate collaboration suite including e-mail, IM, calendaring, and more! Plan-It Purple — View events at Northwestern for a given day or week. NULink — See campus and Evanston-area resources on this student- managed site. WildCARD Advantage Discounts — Show your student ID and save at these area businesses.
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Before you come to campus: q Review tips for setting up a secure password/passphrase once
you receive your NetID at .
q Access Northwestern e-mail via the Web at
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q Review NUIT and school-specific recommendations on pages 6-9
before buying or bringing a computer.
q Browse for student-discounted software at
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q Pack a maximum 25-foot Ethernet cable to view NUTV. q Set up your computer’s VPN to connect to the NU Network at
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q Set up a Windows XP or Vista-based laptop to connect to the
on-campus wireless network, named “Northwestern”, at . (Mac laptops do not require special set up.)
q Install University-provided antivirus software, security updates and
patches, spyware detection software, and check firewall settings. For instructions, go to .
q Review and abide by NUIT responsible use guidelines and policies at
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q Update any changes to your contact information on CAESAR after
August 1, 2009, at . Changes before August 1 should go to .
Interested in Working at NUIT? NUIT is always looking for student employees to staff the Support Center and other roles. You’ll learn about computers, networks, and the Internet while developing technical and interpersonal skills. For information, go to . If you have any questions about the information in this booklet, call the NUIT Support Center at 847-491-HELP (1-4357) or e-mail .
© 2009 Northwestern University Information Technology. All rights reserved. Produced by Northwestern University Information Technology Communications. This publication is available online at . No portion of this document may be excerpted, copied, or reproduced in any manner without the express written consent of Northwestern University. AG2007-2500
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