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New Student FAQ

Everything you need to know prior to your arrival at UConn

For your convenience, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions for new UConn students. Click on a question to see the answer. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, feel free to use our live help service or try sending an e-mail to huskytech@uconn.edu.

Basic Technology

-Who provides technology support to students on campus?

Although HuskyTech is the principle support group for on-campus students, there are other organizations that might be of assistance to you. These groups include:

  • University Information Technology Services - UITS maintains UConn's wired and wireless networks. They are responsible for creating and enforcing all of the IT policies on campus. UITS also supports students and faculty members with NetID and Peoplesoft account issues.
  • Learning Resource Center - The LRC offers students guidance and training with a wide range of software and applications. They provide hands-on aid with a Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, simple webpage design, and HuskyCT or Huskymail. Learn more about the LRC at www.lrc.uconn.edu.
  • Co-Op Technology - Offers vendor-certified support for computers for computers purchased at the Co-Op. They also offer hardware for a fee basis for computers purchased elsewhere or for out-of-warranty machines. For more information, visit their website.
-What is my NetID and how is it useful?

A NetID is issued to every student as a unique identifier (user name) for online services. New students will set up a password for their NetID. If for any reason you need to find your NetID or reset your NetID password please visit http://netid.uconn.edu. Online services that use NetID authentication include:

  • Network Registration (NetReg)
  • Huskymail
  • HuskyCT
  • Proxy/VPN

Contact the UITS helpdesk at (860) 486.4357 if you are having any problems with your NetID.

-What is my Peoplesoft ID and how is it useful?

A Peoplesoft ID is issued to every student as a unique identifier (user name) only for the Student Administration System. New students will set a password for this system. This ID and password is independent of your NetID and its password. The Student Administration System is used for:

  • Registering for classes
  • Printing out class schedules
  • Receiving grades for your courses.

Contact the UITS helpdesk at (860) 486.4357 if you are having any problems with your Peoplesoft ID.

Computer

-Does my school or major have any sort of specific computer requirement?

UConn does not have any specific requirements for computers. However, some schools require that you lease one of their computers during your junior year. If you are in the School of Business or Neag School of Education, you might need to participate in one of these programs. Check the school website for more specific up-to-date information.

-Should I have a laptop or a desktop?

Both laptop and desktop computers are very similar, as far as quality. Generally speaking the decision comes down to person preference. Here are some Pros and Cons for each type:

  • Desktop - Desktop computers are often less expensive, are less prone to theft/loss, have widely-available replacement parts and are easy to upgrade. However, Desktops are bulky, not portable, require a lot of cables, and use more electricity.
  • Laptop - Laptops free up desk space, are compact and portable, require fewer wires, and use less electricity than desktop computers. However, laptops are more expensive, are more prone to theft and loss, can be easily damaged, and are often difficult to upgrade.
-Should I have Windows or Mac?

Both Windows and Mac computers are very similar, as far as quality. Generally speaking the decision comes down to person preference. Here are some Pros and Cons for each type:

  • Windows - Windows is the most common operating system and therefore has the most software. While it is easy to upgrade and repair, it is also more susceptible to viruses. Windows-based machines also tend to be less expansive than their Mac counterparts.
  • Mac - Mac OS-based systems tend to be stable and consistent with fewer viruses. However, they tend to cost more than Windows-based machines.
-What are the recommended system specifications?

PC Recommended System Hardware

  • Operating System - Windows XP SP2 / Windows Vista
  • Processor Speed - 3.0 GHz Single / 1.8 GHz Dual Core or better
  • RAM - 1 GB (2GB preferred for Windows Vista)
  • Drives - CD-ROM, DVD-ROM
  • Networking  - Ethernet
  • Cables - Cat 5 Ethernet Cable (Recommend 15 feet)

Mac Recommended System Hardware

  • Operating System - Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger) or better
  • Processor Speed - 1.8 GHz G5 PowerPC / 1.83 GHz Intel Core 2 Dual
  • RAM - 1 GB (2GB preferred)
  • Drives - CD-ROM, DVD-ROM
  • Networking  - Ethernet
  • Cables - Cat 5 Ethernet Cable (Recommend 15 feet)
-What kind of software should I have on my computer?

We suggest the following software for Windows:

-Do I need antivirus? Where can I get it?

All students need an antivirus program on their computer. UConn provides Symantec Antivirus to all of its students for free. You can download a copy of this software at antivirus.uconn.edu.

-What are some useful tools for keeping my PC clean?

We recommend SpyBot, Adaware, and CCleaner. SpyBot and Adaware work to remove spyware and adware that are often responsible for slowing down your computer. CCleaner is a useful utility that can tidy up your registry and clear out unnecessary temporary files. We use all of these utilities in our shop and they are all available free of charge.

Internet

-How do I connect to the UConn network?

A high-speed Internet connection is included in the cost of tuition.  All residence hall rooms have Ethernet connections. Some residence hall rooms have only one Ethernet jack so a splitter wired for the UConn campus will be required.

As long as all settings and security issues are taken care of when a student arrives all they will need to do is plug their Ethernet cable into the wall jack and they will be directed to the registration page when they go to their web browser. They will have to agree to all the university network policies. After registering with their NetID they are all set!

-Will my residence hall have wireless internet?

In addition to wired network access, the University has now provided wireless internet in the study lounges of all Residential Halls. Shippee and Buckley are the only residential halls, where wireless internet is available throughout the entire building.

These wireless networks are also available in various academic and multi-purpose areas around campus. These locations include the Student Union, MSB, Gampel Pavilion, and the UConn Co-op. (For a full list, please refer to this website.)

-Can I use a router or game console on the network?

Students are allowed to extend their network using a router. However they must first Self Register their device before they connect it to the network. They can go to the SelfReg website to find out what they will need to register it.

Game consoles are also allowed to be hooked up to the network however they must also be self registered. Follow the same procedures for these devices.

-Does UConn offer data backup or shared file storage for students?

UConn does not offer network space to students for long-term use. For this reason, we recommend backing up your data on a USB flash drive or an external hard drive. The UConn Dropbox is available for temporary storage of individual files or to share files for academic purposes. See http://dropbox.uconn.edu/dropbox for more information.

Accessories

-Do I need to bring a printer?

We recommend that you bring a low-end (function over form in this case) printer for schoolwork. You will find that having an inexpensive printer is far more convenient than walking to the library in the cold to print an essay. We promise.

-What tech equipment should I bring to campus?

  • 25’ Cat5 ethernet cable - required to register and connect to the UConn network
  • Operating System CDs - useful if you need to reinstall software
  • USB flash drive or external hard drive - for data backup and mobility
  • Laptop lock - for security

Software Links

Here is a list of useful software for your computer.

You can learn more about free software in our knowledgebase.