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Revision as of 10:15, 26 January 2018

First-year student mailing

An e-mail was sent to all incoming students. This e-mail included much of the same information on this web page, in addition to �鶹��Ƶ usernames and passwords. If you did not receive this mailing, or have questions or concerns regarding it, please contact the Technology Helpline at 507-933-6111 or helpline@gustavus.edu.

Purchasing a computer

Do I need to bring a computer to campus?

�鶹��Ƶ does not require students to bring their own computers to campus, however, many choose to bring one. If you are unsure about purchasing a computer, we suggest that you spend some time on campus before making a decision.

Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?

There are many advantages to bringing a laptop to campus:

They are easier to transport, allowing you to take notes in class, or do homework from virtually anywhere. When problems arise, it's much easier to bring a laptop to the Technology Helpline for quick help or virus removal than a bulky desktop machine.
With the convenience of the �鶹��Ƶ Wireless Network, you'll be able to access the Internet anywhere on campus.

On the other hand, laptops have a few disadvantages to desktops:

Laptops are often more expensive than a comparable desktop.
Their smaller size and portability often make them more prone to theft and damage.
Laptops are more difficult to upgrade, therefore making it necessary to replace it sooner.

We suggest that your choice reflect your own lifestyle, habits, and personal preferences.

What kind of computer should I get? Macintosh, Chromebook, or Windows?

Your platform choice should be determined by your relative comfort level and previous experience with each operating system. �鶹��Ƶ owns and supports all platforms, so the decision is completely yours to make. If you are interested in a Google Chromebook, please see our Chromebook web page. Some textbooks come with software that is not web-based, where Chromebooks are not supported by the publisher. Please be aware that lower-end Chromebooks may not be satisfactory when using processor heavy apps such as Zoom.

Are there any computer purchasing programs at �鶹��Ƶ?

�鶹��Ƶ does not sell computers to students, faculty or staff but does maintain a relationship with , , and allowing community members to purchase computers and supplies at an educational discount direct from the vendor. Please use the following links to ensure you receive educational pricing.

Please visit the or call 1-800-My-APPLE.
Please visit the .
Please visit the or call 1-800-987-3555.

Note: Almost all vendors have educational discounts for students, faculty and staff. All you have to do is ask.

FREE SOFTWARE Microsoft Office 365 is currently available for FREE to download for current �鶹��Ƶ students and employees.

Also, community members are able to buy certain software and some hardware at educational discounts from stores and directly from their website such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, InDesign, etc). Remember to always ask for an academic discount. You might be asked to supply an ID or email address.

Do I need to bring a wireless router to campus?

No. Too many wireless access points in a small area can generate a substantial amount of interference, degrading everybody's wireless experience. For best performance, we recommend that students use the college's wireless. It is available in all residence halls.

Can I bring a streaming device to campus?

Yes, definitely! Please see our recommended streaming devices list - /gts/Streaming_Device. Devices such as a Smart TV, Smart Blu-ray players, Apple TVs, and the Nexus Player work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported. We recommend that when using these devices, you use an ethernet (RJ45) cable (provided free by Technology Services). If you haven't purchased a Blu-ray player or TV yet, look for a wired ethernet (RJ45) port on the back when purchasing.

What are the minimum requirements for the computer I bring to �鶹��Ƶ?

Before connecting to the campus network, all computers must have current virus protection and up-to-date , along with the following list of minimum requirements:

Requirement	Windows	Macintosh
Operating System	Windows 11	macOS 12 (Monterey)
Networking	5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector) access available in most campus spaces.
Anti-Virus Software	Microsoft Security Essentials or Windows Defender (free, built into Windows 8/10)
Current Security Patches		Run Software Update

What are the recommended specifications for my computer at �鶹��Ƶ?

Recommendation	Windows	Macintosh
Operating System	Windows 11 (any variety)	macOS 13 (Ventura) or newer
RAM	16 GB or higher	16 GB or higher
Connectivity	5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector)
Processor	Current Gen Intel i5	M series processor
Hard Drive	256GB SSD or larger	256GB SSD or larger
Warranty	3 year warranty	AppleCare Protection Plan

Generally the "business class" models are more durable and come with longer warranties.

Connecting to the �鶹��Ƶ Wireless Network

There is no longer a registration process required to access the �鶹��Ƶ wireless networks.

How do I have the best wireless network experience at �鶹��Ƶ?

When buying a computer, double check that it comes with a 5GHz wireless card built-in. While Macintosh laptops come with them standard, most PC laptops do not come with 5GHz wireless cards in the preconfigured models in stores. Find out if you can order the laptop with a 5GHz wireless card, or purchase your computer straight from the manufacturer. Purchasing a 5GHz laptop

Software

Things to do BEFORE you get to �鶹��Ƶ!

If you are a Windows user, make sure your "Windows Updates" are current (visit ).
If you are a Macintosh user, run Software Update, and apply all critical updates.
Ensure that your machine is protected from viruses by using an Anti-Virus client with up-to-date definitions.
Verify that you have all of the necessary software documentation, serial numbers, and installation media. Please bring these to campus with you.
During any transition, it's wise to make backups of any critical data. We recommend a cloud-based backup.

Get Microsoft Office Free

At �鶹��Ƶ, all faculty, staff, and employees use the Microsoft Office Suite for Windows or Macintosh.

�鶹��Ƶ currently has Microsoft Office 365 available for free for all current active students. Please visit our Office 365 page for more information.

Get access to Hoonuit for free!

Hoonuit, formerly Atomic Learning, is available to ALL �鶹��Ƶ Faculty, Staff and Students!

Hoonuit is an online, on demand, training site that offers over 50,000 tutorial videos on over 250 technology applications, including Microsoft, Google, and Adobe. Topics are subdivided into very small chunks, and presented in videos of one or two minutes, so learners can easily and quickly find the training they need on specific topics. Instructors can pull Hoonuit videos directly into their Moodle courses.

24/7 access to training offers flexible, just-in-time learning - just navigate to /hoonuit and login using your GAC Credentials!

What about Anti-Virus software?

Should I come with an anti-virus product?

It is recommended that you use an anti-virus product before you come to campus. If you do not use the built-in Windows anti-virus product and use a different anti-virus software, please be sure your subscription is up-to-date.

Does �鶹��Ƶ provide anti-virus software?

As Windows 8 and Windows 10 have anti-virus included, �鶹��Ƶ does not provide anti-virus software.

What can I do to protect my computer from spyware?

The best way to avoid getting spyware and adware is by not installing "high-risk" applications like peer to peer music downloading software, and other suspect "freeware," and "shareware" programs.

Use caution when installing software. Make sure your operating system, software and browser plug-ins are all up to date. Use a strong and unique password.

Connecting to the Internet

Which connection method is recommended?

When connecting to the �鶹��Ƶ network from your residence hall room, we recommend using the "wired" connection. A wired connection is faster and more reliable.

How many wired ports are in each room in the Residence Halls?

This depends on the room that you are assigned. However, in most cases, for first-year students, it will be one per person. The wired ports are the recommended way for connecting your computer to the Internet while in the rooms. It is more reliable and faster than the wireless connections.

Is there wireless in the Residence Halls?

Yes, wireless connectivity is available. However, due to the popularity and physical limitations of this service, the connection will be less reliable than using your wired connection to the Internet.

Can I bring a wireless router to campus?

No. �鶹��Ƶ is currently expanding the wireless network to all the residence halls. Using personal wireless routers will interfere with this network, therefore, we do not allow personal wireless routers.

Where else is the wireless network?

For an up-to-date listing of where the �鶹��Ƶ wireless network is located, please visit �鶹��Ƶ Wireless Network.

How do I connect to the �鶹��Ƶ network?

Turn on your computer.
Plug your Ethernet cord into the Ethernet jack on the wall (the wide one).
Plug your Ethernet cord into the computer's Ethernet port.
Launch a web browser (Firefox, Chrome or Internet Explorer).
You will be automatically redirected to a registration screen. If not, please type in greg.gac.edu into the URL bar.
Follow the on-screen directions.

You may have to register your computer more than once. You will need to register your computer when you access the wireless network, the wired network, and when you plug your computer into any other buildings' network jacks.

How many networked devices can I register?

You can register as many as you would like.

How do I connect my video game console such as the XBox One or Playstation 4 to the Internet so I can use the online features?

Please visit to register this device on the �鶹��Ƶ network.

Are there any devices that don't work well on the �鶹��Ƶ network?

Due to the design of the Chromecast, Amazon's Fire TV Stick and the Roku, these devices are not compatible with our network.

Are there any streaming devices that you recommend?

Devices such as a Smart TV, Smart Blu-ray players,the Apple TV, and the Nexus Player work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported. We recommend that when using these devices, you use an ethernet (RJ45) cable (provided free by Technology Services). If you haven't purchased a Blu-ray player or TV yet, look for a wired ethernet (RJ45) port on the back when purchasing.

Support

Is there anybody to help me connect to the Internet when I come to campus?

Yes, the Technology Helpline is here to help you! To contact us, dial 507-933-6111.

Can the Helpline visit my room and help me connect to the �鶹��Ƶ network?

During the Fall Orientation for first-year students, the Technology Helpline will visit the Residence Halls, visit your room, and offer connectivity help.

During the rest of the year, the Technology Helpline does not visit students' rooms.

Printing

Do I need a personal printer?

It is not necessary that you purchase or bring a printer to campus. All residence halls are equipped with black and white laser printers in the labs. Please see Printing to set your computer to print to the residence hall printer.

If you need to print in color, color laser printing is available in the Olin Technology Center, the Library, the GIS computer lab in Nobel, and Anderson Hall.

Do I have access to campus owned printers?

Yes, there are printers in the Residence Halls that are available for you to print to from your personal computer in your room. Here are instructions on configuring your personal computer to print to the printer in your building.

Are there any fees for printing in computer labs at �鶹��Ƶ?

Students are given 600 "printing units" per academic year at no charge on all college-owned printers. One printing unit is defined as one side of an 8.5" x 11" page on a black and white printer. A single side of an 8.5" x 11" page printed on a color printer counts as 4 units.

Any printing that exceeds the initial 600 units will be charged to the student at a rate of $0.05 per printing unit. This equates to $0.05 per 8.5" x 11" side on a black and white printer, and $0.20 per 8.5" x 11" side on a color printer.

Discounts are given for duplex printing.

In Olin Hall, Anderson Hall, and the Library, 11 x 17 printing is also available.

Black and white 11" x 17" is rates are 2 units ($0.10) per side, while color 11" x 17" are 8 units ($0.40) per side.

Other

When do I find out my username and password for my �鶹��Ƶ e-mail account?

�鶹��Ƶ usernames and passwords are sent out via a secondary e-mail address. If you do not receive this information, or have questions or problems, please contact the Technology Helpline.

Can I configure my �鶹��Ƶ e-mail on my iPhone or Android?

Yes, definitely. Please visit Apple Mobile Mail or Smartphone (Device) Settings for Email and �鶹��Ƶ Google Calendar. You also have the option to use the Gmail mobile app, using your �鶹��Ƶ credentials, from the App Store or the Google Play store.

Is there an online storage space for me to save my files?

Yes, �鶹��Ƶ Google Drive cloud storage is available for all students. You can access your �鶹��Ƶ Google Drive at . This website utilizes your �鶹��Ƶ e-mail username and password. Google Drive gives you unlimited storage. A great place to save papers and large movie files.

Do I need a USB flash drive?

USB flash drives or thumb drives, while unnecessary, are a convenient way to transport data between computers. We would recommend a flash drive that is at least 4 GB. If you use one, please make sure to remove it from lab computers when you are done. Also it is a great idea to save a file on the flash drive with contact information, just in case it is lost.

A better alternative would be �鶹��Ƶ Google Drive. This is the preferred way of saving papers, pictures, or other documents that you want to make sure are safe. This network storage provides you unlimited storage.

Are the classrooms technology-enhanced?

Currently, there are 87 technology-enhanced classrooms complete with a projector, wireless networking, laptop hookup, and DVD/VCR player hookups. Most of these classrooms have a classroom computer, while classrooms in our newest building, Beck Hall, requires faculty and students to use a laptop to connect to the projector. Each year, the number of this type of classroom continues to rise.

What personal information can I view online - my grades, class schedules, degree progress, transcripts, or other information?

As a student, you will be able to check all of this by logging into with your �鶹��Ƶ username and WebAdvisor Password. This password is different than your �鶹��Ƶ email password.

Is there a way to find contact information for faculty, staff, and other students?

Yes, we have an online directory found at /search/. Faculty and staff information does not require a log-in. Student information is only available to those who have a �鶹��Ƶ username and password.

Can I create and host a web page through �鶹��Ƶ?

Yes, you can have a personal homepage by creating web pages from a variety of different programs and placing them in the "www-docs" folder in your Home Directory. This files will be available as your website at the following link - .

What public access for computing is available to students, parents, and guests of the college? Are there any Internet cafes?

There are computers for public use in the Library, Campus Center, Student Union, and parents can log in as a guest in the Residence Halls' computer labs. There is guest wireless access located all around campus if you bring your own computer. Please connect to the �鶹��ƵGuest wireless network and open a web browser. You will be re-directed to a guest registration page. Please fill out the form and click submit. You should then be able to have wireless connectivity. If you aren't redirected, please visit

Where are the computer labs?

We have computer labs in all of the residence halls (except Arbor View apartments and Chapel View apartments), and most academic buildings. There are also computers located in the Campus Center and Student Union for students, faculty, staff, and guests of the College.

@@ Line 56: / Line 56: @@
 #Turn on your computer.
 #Plug your [[Ethernet cord]] into the [[Ethernet jack]] on the wall (the wide one).
-#Plug your Ethernet cord into the computer's [[Ethernet slot]].
+#Plug your Ethernet cord into the computer's [[Ethernet port]].
 #Launch a [[web browser]] ([[Firefox]], Chrome or [[Internet Explorer]]).
 #You will be automatically redirected to a registration screen. If not, please type in greg.gac.edu into the URL bar.