

Contents Technology for Everyone

3

Log On: Your FlashLine Username and Password 3 Get Connected: Wireless Internet 4 Stay Connected: Mobile Devices 5 Get Around: Wayfinding 5

Technology for You

Work from Off Campus: VPN and Library Resources 5 Get to Work: Google Apps 5 Teach and Learn: Blackboard 6 Go Shopping: Personal Computers and Software 6

Stay Safe: Antivirus Protection and Security 13

Technology for Faculty and Staff

15

Learn New Tools: Software and OS Workshops 8

Welcome to Kent State University. At the Division of Information Services, we provide the tools that make it possible to connect to the Internet, check and post grades, retrieve office voicemail or attend a virtual classroom presentation. In addition to developing and supporting applications used by thousands of students, faculty and staff, we also provide exceptional support and training by phone, online and in person. Let’s get started.

Get Tech Help: Support and Repair Options 9

Technology for Students

11

Get Started: Get to Know Your Office Computer 15 Stay Up to Date: Faculty Computer Refresh 15 You’ve Got Email: Email and Calendars 16

Stay In Touch: Email 11

Talk the Talk: Office Telephones and Voicemail 16

Residence Halls: Tech in the Room 11

Grade Your Exams: Scanning Services 17

No Computer? No Problem: Campus Computer Labs 12

Get Help: Local Support and Training 17

Get Connected: Wireless Internet FlashZone-WPA, our secure, high-speed wireless network, lets you connect to the Internet almost anywhere.

addition, you can obtain your Kent State ID number, which is

First-time Set-up of FlashZone on Windows, Mac or Linux Click your system’s wireless icon and choose FLASHZONEWPA as your network.

often used to verify your identity, under the My Account tab.

Windows 7

Windows 8

Mac OS X

Logging In Logging in for the first time is easy. Visit www.kent.edu, click FlashLine Login and enter your FlashLine username and

Technology for Everyone

Technology for Everyone

default password. Once you log in, you’ll be asked to set a new password, account security questions and an alternate

1.

email address.

Log On: Your FlashLine Username and Password



FlashLine is your key to all things Kent State with access to student and faculty tools, grades, graduation planning, course registration, HR

records and leave reporting. It also provides one-stop access to your email, online courses and documents. In

Open a browser.

At the FlashZone

Your username was sent to you in your admissions or

welcome screen, download the installer for Windows or

new hire letter. Passwords are in the following format:

Mac.

mmmyyxxxxx (mmm = first three letters of your birth month, yy = last two digits of your birth year, xxxxx = last five digits of your Kent State ID number). Find out more at support.kent.edu/password. If you ever forget your password, access our online password recovery tool by visiting support.kent.edu/forgot.

2.

Sign in to the installer with your FlashLine username and password. Once setup is complete, you’ll automatically be connected to the secure FLASHZONE-WPA network for future sign-ons.

Linux and Chromebook users, we have instructions just for you at support.kent.edu/flashzone.

4

Work From Off Campus: VPN and Library Resources

Teach and Learn: Blackboard

Additionally, you can review our computer recommendations

Blackboard Learn is Kent State’s online learning management

at support.kent.edu/computer. The University Bookstore

FlashZone-WPA wireless network as well (great for saving

Some resources, including certain library databases and

system, available via FlashLine by clicking the Blackboard

has select models of both PCs and Macs.

your cellular data plan). Follow the instructions at

shared network drives, require a VPN connection for

icon. Learn allows students and faculty members to access

support.kent.edu/flashzone-mobile.

off-campus access. Download and install the VPN software

online course materials, grades, assignments and tests, as

Mobile Devices: iOS, Android or Windows Phone (other

at support.kent.edu/vpn. For more information about the

well as communicate with each other. Training guides and

platforms may be supported)

resources available from the University Library, including

workshop dates are available at www.kent.edu/blackboard.

Using a mobile phone or tablet? You can connect to the

Download the KSUmobile App Access your grades, class schedule, campus maps with dozens of points of interest (POI), parking maps and bus

research databases, visit www.kent.edu/library.

Go Shopping: Personal Computers and Software

routes, event calendars, athletics news, schedules and

Get to Work: Google Apps

latest scores, student/staff profiles, directories, news feeds,

Share, collaborate and work right within your Web browser

account balances and much more. They’re all available from

using Google Apps. As a Google university, Kent State

the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Just search for

provides access to Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Calendar, and



KSUmobile. Find out more at www.kent.edu/mobile.

much more using your FlashLine login. Google Apps makes

specific technology requirements.

it easy to share files with your colleagues, and they integrate

their academic department before buying a

are managed by your local IT support person. Their contact

computer (see page 8), as some majors have

information is available at support.kent.edu/localsupport.

Kent State websites feature a powerful map management

Access Google Apps via FlashLine by clicking the Drive icon.

Desktop or Laptop: 4GB of memory (RAM) and a dual-band

system that boasts 3D buildings, streetview imagery, and

Install Google Drive to your devices to work off-line while

wireless card (see support.kent.edu/wireless-card for

interactive virtual tours, among many key features. As we

keeping your files synced with the 30GB of free storage

more information about wireless cards)

continue to add more features to this platform, you will be

provided by Google.

and accessibility information. Check it out at

personal printer in your residence hall room, we recommend buying a USB cable. Faculty and staff departmental printers

New Hardware Recommendations

able to view parking information, bus routes and stops,

labs and the University Library. If you’d like to connect a

Students should check requirements with

with one another so you can create a knockout final project.

Get Around: Wayfinding

Printers: Printers are available for public use in the computer

Technology for Everyone

Stay Connected: Mobile Devices

Warranty: Purchase an extended 3-year computer hardware warranty.

www.kent.edu/maps.

6

Windows 8

Mac OS X Mavericks or above

Linux (limited support)

Chromebook (limited support)

Schools and Colleges with Specific Personal Computer Recommendations

Free and Discounted Software for Personal Computers

College of Architecture and Environmental Design highly recommends Windows PCs. See www.kent.edu/CAED/about/computing/pc.cfm.

Microsoft Security Essentials (Windows) or Sophos Antivirus

The College of Applied Engineering, Sustainability and Technology recommends Windows PCs.

Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative

The College of Business Administration requires a either a Windows or Apple laptop with the specs that can be found at http://www2.kent.edu/business/Undergrad/upload/ newcompreq_newsletter-edited-june-18.pdf.*

software (see support.kent.edu/software)

The School of Journalism and Mass Communication recommends an Apple MacBook Pro. See www.kent.edu/jmc/future-students/admissions. The School of Visual Communication Design requires an Apple MacBook Pro. See vcd.kent.edu. Mac and PC requirements for The Fashion School are listed at www.kent.edu/artscollege/fashion/students. The School of Art requires iPads for certain majors or classes. For more information, visit the School of Art at www.kent.edu/art/academics/foundations/ipad_faq.

If you don’t see your school or college listed above, please check with them before purchasing a new computer.

for Mac Home Edition (see support.kent.edu/antivirus)

Suite, as well as statistical, research and mathematics

Technology for Everyone

Computer Operating System Recommendations

Learn New Tools: Software and Operating System Workshops Keep your new computer running like new - attend a workshop on Windows or Mac OS basics, and learn how to avoid those nasty viruses. Or learn a new program to enhance your course assignments. Past technology workshops have covered topics like Google Apps, Adobe software, and Blackboard Learn. To find the schedule and topics for the next workshops series, visit training.kent.edu.

* Added 6/14

8

What to Expect

Helpdesk technical assistance is always available. Wherever

no charge and, if necessary, check in your computer. Most

you are, we’re here to help. CLICK (24/7): support.kent.edu

A TECHnician will diagnose your issue at the front desk at

The Tech Spot on the Kent Campus provides in-person support for your personally-owned technology. Our

During fall and spring semesters:

TECHnicians provide professional service at an affordable

Sunday, noon - 8 p.m. Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

••

Get answers to your questions

price, including:

••

Get password, login and FlashLine assistance

••

Virus and spyware removal

••

Submit online support requests

••

Software troubleshooting and optimization

••

Find software downloads

••

••

Chat live with an agent

Data backup and recovery (includes mobile and removable devices)

••

Hardware repair, installation and part ordering

••

Mobile device (includes iPhone screen replacement)

••

Apple- and Dell-authorized warranty service

CALL (24/7): 330-672-HELP (4357) VISIT: The first floor Library Technology Helpdesk or your Regional Helpdesk. More information on both can be found at support.kent.edu/help. Or visit the Tech Spot in the TriTowers Rotunda (see next section). Faculty and staff may also contact their local support person. Their information is listed at support.kent.edu/localsupport.

repairs are performed on-site with fast turnaround time.

Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Technology for Everyone

Get Tech Help: Support and Repair Options

During the summer and university breaks: Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. See techspot.kent.edu or call 330-672-TECH (8324).

Get Started at The Tech Spot Visit The Tech Spot office in the Tri-Towers Rotunda on the Kent Campus. No appointment is needed — just walk in and they’ll assist you.

10

Stay In Touch: Email

Residence Halls: Tech in the Room

You can access your Kent State email account by clicking

Wireless Everywhere

Email in the upper right corner of FlashLine. All official

High-speed, secure wireless access is available in the

university notices are sent to your Kent State email address,

residence halls. Visit support.kent.edu/resnet for more

so check your email often! For more information about your

wireless information. Residents connecting in Allerton

email, visit support.kent.edu/email-student.

Apartments should follow the wired connection instructions.

Stay connected 24/7: Visit support.kent.edu/gmail-mobile

Tech at Night

to set up email on your mobile device.

Technology for Students

Technology for Students

In addition to The Tech Spot (available most days until 8 p.m.), after-hours support is available in most residence halls. Tech at Night helps night owls connect to FlashZone, troubleshoot basic computer issues and answer technology questions. Visit TechAtNight.kent.edu for more information.

Gaming and Entertainment Devices

No Computer? No Problem: Campus Computer Labs



Printing to Personal and Public Printers Public printing is available from personal computers (see

Public computer labs are available in many

support.kent.edu/print2lab) and from lab computers,

campus buildings and residence halls. Two

using your FLASHcard for payment. Students who prefer

popular lab locations are on the first floor

to bring a printer to campus should bring a USB cable, or

Play games, watch movies and stream music, right from your

of the library and on the second floor of the Kent Student

purchase one at The Tech Spot in the Tri-Towers Rotunda.

room. Connect your gaming and entertainment devices by

Center. Visit support.kent.edu/labs for a complete listing.

Find out more about printing in the residence halls at

following the instructions at support.kent.edu/gaming.

support.kent.edu/print.

12

Antivirus Protection



Installing antivirus protection can lower the chances of your computer getting a virus. If you need antivirus software, we recommend

Updates and Security



If you’re bringing a computer to campus, be sure to run Windows Update from the Windows Control Panel or Software Update from the Apple () menu

on a Mac before arriving. We also recommend turning on your built-in operating system firewall. Third-party

Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows and Sophos

programs, such as Adobe Flash, Reader and Java, should also

Antivirus for Mac Home Edition. More information can be

be updated.

found at support.kent.edu/antivirus.

Digital Copyright Law

©

Using peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing software to download copyrighted materials without the

Protecting Your Identity and Personal Property Here are 10 tips that will help you protect your identity and personal property. More information is available at SecureIT.kent.edu. 1.

Never share your username, password or Kent State ID number or use the same username/password on other websites.

2.

Always lock your computer and mobile phone with a password or passcode, and never share your computer with others.

3.

Always lock your room whenever you’re away. Buy a computer lock or anti-theft software.

4.

Never leave your computer unattended in public areas, even for a few minutes.

5.

Always keep beverages away from your computer. One spill could cost you hundreds of dollars.

Technology for Students

Stay Safe: Antivirus Protection and Security

permission of the copyright holder(s) is illegal.

Most of these materials (including music, movies and games) are protected by copyright law. Those who break the law face penalties and university disciplinary action. For more information, visit security.kent.edu.

6. Always sign out of your email, FlashLine and any other websites, especially when using public computers. 7.

Always be aware of phishing emails. Always hover and check if a link is valid before clicking.

8. Always uncheck any boxes that say “Remember Me” when using a public computer. 9. Always back up your important documents and photos. You can use your Kent State Google Drive (click Drive in FlashLine). 10. Always reboot public computers before and after using them.

14

Get Started: Get to Know Your Office Computer

Security

Setup





Your new computer hardware and software,

Most university-owned computers have Microsoft Anti-Virus software and operating system security updates installed by default. If you do get a virus,

You can also set up email on your mobile phone or tablet. Visit

Email Via Microsoft Outlook, the Web or Mobile Devices

person for setup instructions.



Most full-time faculty and staff use Microsoft Office 365 email, contacts and calendars,

support.kent.edu/email-staff or contact your local support

Talk the Talk: Office Telephones and Voicemail

NIFIED

COMMUNICATIONS

accessed through Microsoft Outlook, the Email

icon in FlashLine or via the Web at mail.kent.edu. Most

network printer and shared network drives

don’t panic! Click the “Clean Computer” button, then open a

part-time faculty, staff and student employees use Kent

are generally set up by your area’s local

support ticket at support.kent.edu. More information is

State Gmail which can be accessed through the Email icon in

support person (visit support.kent.edu/localsupport).

available at support.kent.edu/antivirus-staff.

FlashLine or directly at email.kent.edu.

Logging Into Your Office Computer for the First Time

Stay Up to Date: Faculty Computer Refresh

For new faculty and staff, make sure you’ve successfullly

Faculty Computer Refresh allows full-time tenure-track and

logged into FlashLine and changed your default password.

non tenure-track faculty members on the Kent Campus to

Most university-owned computers are encrypted with

have current computers available for their use at little or no

McAfee Endpoint Encryption. To sign on, use your FlashLine

cost to the department. Computers are currently replaced

username and password at the McAfee screen, and again if

every three years. Visit www.kent.edu/facultyrefresh to

prompted by Windows or OS X.

get all the details.



Typically, you’ll receive a Cisco model desk phone and voicemail as a new employee. Here are some of the basic phone functions (for additional

information visit support.kent.edu/communication). Function

All Cisco Phones

Setup and Retrieve Your Voicemail from Your Office Phone

Dial 2-7777. Enter your PIN followed by “#” (your default PIN is “2010”).

Retrieve Your Voicemail from an Off-Campus Phone

Dial your phone number. When you hear your voicemail greeting, press “*” Enter your 5-digit phone extension and press “#”

Dial On-Campus Phone Numbers

Dial the 5-digit extension

Dial Off-Campus Phone Numbers

Dial 8 + 1 + area code + phone number

Technology for Faculty and Staff

Technology for Faculty and Staff

You’ve Got Email: Email and Calendars

16

Grade Your Exams: Scanning Services



Free to all faculty members, Scanning Services

www.kent.edu/IS support.kent.edu

provides a computerized solution to process surveys, evaluations and examinations. Visit

the service window on the first floor of the library or call 330-672-3736.

Get Help: Local Support and Training



Learn More

Local Support: For university-owned technology assistance, contact your area’s local support person. Their contact

information is available at support.kent.edu/localsupport.

Connect

 facebook.com/informationservices

 @ksuhelpdesk

Administrative Systems Training: Our IS training team can help you get started with administrative systems, like Banner, reporting and workflows. Visit www.kent.edu/is/training. Blackboard Training: Need assistance using Blackboard and Collaborate for your courses? Visit

KSUmobile www.kent.edu/mobile/

www.kent.edu/blackboard.

18