1. Where can I get answers to questions about Technology?
The Technology Help Desk is located in Technology Center 148. Feel free to visit them or call 605-626-2283 or email at
help@northern.edu.
2. Do I need a computer?Yes, all full-time freshmen and sophomores are required to bring a laptop or mobile device to campus. For more information, visit Anytime, Anywhere Learning.
3. What kind of computer should I buy?
NSU does not require a specific brand or type of mobile device but we do recommend Apple, Dell, Fujitsu, or Hewlett-Packard systems. Please visit Hardware and Software Requirements for ordering information.
4. What else will I need to buy?
It is highly recommended that you bring a CAT5 or CAT6 network (Ethernet) cable. Even if you use the wireless, a cable can help in some instances. We also recommend you bring a flash or thumb drive.
5. What software will I need?
NSU requires anti-virus software to connect to our network. NSU recommends installing the Microsfot Security Essentials free antivirus software. Please visit Hardware & Software for installation procedures.
Microsoft Office 2007/2010 is used throughout campus and we recommend you purchase this prior to coming to campus or at out NSU Bookstore. Please visit Hardware and Software to purchase Microsft Office 2010 Academic version at reduced price.
6. Where can I access the Internet?
All residence halls have both wired and wireless connections. In addition, wireless access is available throughout the entire campus, including the outside quad area and the Seymour green space.
7. How can I prepare my computer for access to the NSU network?
Before you come to campus, you should make sure your computer has the most recent computer updates, specifically Microsoft Windows updates.
8. When will I get my network and e-mail account information?
Once you have been accepted to NSU and have registered for courses, your NSU account will be created. You can retrieve your account information online by visiting the account retrieval site. You must already know your seven-digit student ID number that is listed on your identification card.
9. Will my classes use the Internet and computers?
NSU classes often make use of a variety of Internet and computer resources. Many professors use Desire2Learn to host course materials, quizzes, assignments and more. In addition, students are provided their grades and can register for courses online via WebAdvisor.
10. How much storage space on my network drive will I have?
Students are allotted 1 GB of network storage that is backed up nightly.
11. Can I get my computer fixed at NSU?
NET Services can help you with a variety of computer problems. Our technicians can perform warranty work on Fujitsu and Dell computers as well as assist with hardware repair for machines not under warranty. They can also assist with software problems such as installation, virus removal and connecting to the Internet. There are no charges for these services except in cases where non-warranty hardware must be ordered.
12. Are peer-to-peer file sharing systems illegal?
P2P technologies have many legitimate uses. For this reason, NSU does not completely ban P2P programs for its network. We believe, however, that the primary use of P2P technology has been the copying of commercial music and video files, without the copyright holder’s permission, for personal enjoyment. It is that type of activity that generally violates the Copyright law. For more information regarding P2P file sharing, click on the link on the Technology navigation.
13. How can I obtain digital music and video files legally?
Some music, movies and television shows can be legally obtained through online subscription services or from sites officially permitted by the copyright holders to offer certain downloads. Some of the "pay for play" services from which these files can be legally obtained are listed below.
Music: Apple iTunes Music Store, Rhapsody, eMusic and MP3.com
Movies/TV: AtomFilms, CinemaNow, MovieFlix, Movielink and NetFlix
14. Can I use my gaming devices to play online?
Yes. Students can connect their gaming devices such as Xbox, PlayStation or Wii to their port in their room. You must call the Help Desk and provide them your system mac address, name, residence hall and room number before your system is allowed connection.
15. Can I setup my own network in my room?
No. In order to ensure our network is safe and secure, individuals are not allowed to connect personal routers or switches to their network port. This restriction also includes wireless devices such as routers, hubs or switches (a.k.a. access points). Students are allowed to set up wireless printers in ad hoc mode only. If you need assistance, please contact the Help Desk.
16. Can I use my data phone at NSU?
Students have found that numerous providers and phones work with our system. In addition to being able to access the Internet on wireless-capable phones, students are able to connect their data phones to NSU’s e-mail system using different methods, depending on the type of phone. The Help Desk can assist you with configuring your phone.
17. What other services does NET Services offer to students?
You have access to numerous other services as an NSU student. We provide equipment check-outs for students including laptop check-outs should your machine be in process of repair. We also can assist students with multimedia projects such a video or audio production, videoconferencing and software assistance. If you have a technology-related question that hasn’t been answered, please contact the Help Desk. We are here to serve you!
18. Are there any positions available that will allow me to use my computer skills?
If you are good with computers, NET Services provides numerous job opportunities for students. We hire workstudy and student labor positions in computer repair, media services and the Help Desk. We encourage you to stop by the Help Desk to inquire about positions. In addition, if you enjoy working with instructional technology and faculty, we encourage you to apply for our Technology Fellowship program.