Student Technology Orientation

» Logging on to Windows computers

  • Usernames are two letters and 4 digits; passwords are case-sensitive
  • Always be sure the third line says “HWSMICRO”
  • Never share your password–-you are responsible for anything that happens on the network using your HWS Network ID.

» Logging on to Mac computers

To log on to a campus lab Mac computer, use your network username and password

A specialty Mac lab is available in the basement of Rosenberg. This is the only Mac lab on campus, and is maintained and monitored by the science departments.

» Network File Storage

  • Each student has an “M Drive”– 50 MB of server space to save documents. It is accessible from anywhere on campus, and is backed up nightly.
  • “N Drive” server space is used by some faculty and staff to share information with students.
  • “I Drive” contains software install kits– shareware programs for students to install.

» BlackBoard (http://courses.hws.edu)

Blackboard is a Web-based courseware program that enables professors to:

  1. post course content
  2. conduct discussions
  3. post grades and announcements

Many student clubs and campus organizations also have Bb sites.

» Webmail (http://webmail.hws.edu)

E-mail is the primary form of communication on campus – check it often!

Calendar features help you keep track of classes and appointments, and allow you to schedule meetings with others.

“Global Address List” shows e-mail addresses for everyone at HWS.

» IT Services Help Desk

Available to students:

  • Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Friday 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Self-help available 24/7 at web.hws.edu/itservices -- Find policies, instructions, downloads, and print quota management.

E-mail helpdesk@hws.edu, call ext. HELP, or visit Williams Hall Room 117.

The help desk is supported by professional staff and student workers. If you’re interested in working for us, visit our Web site for an application.

Call the help desk for:

  • Classroom and Event Support
    • Setups for events, classes, and clubs, digital media editing
  • Phone Services
    • Signing up for phone/voicemail
  • Computer Services
    • Configurations and repairs

» Computer Repairs

IBM and Gateway warranty hardware problems can be fixed for free, right on campus at Williams Hall.

All other brands, please contact the vendor for warranty information and support.

Software services are available for ALL students for a nominal fee, charged to the student bill.

  • Virus and spyware removal
  • Operating System upgrades
  • Hardware / Software installation

» HWS Web site

Daily Update lists campus news and activities, and important alerts.

IT Status and Alerts section lists scheduled network upgrades and Information Technology Alerts.

Quicklinks feature gives easy access to frequently used sites:

  • Webmail
  • BlackBoard
  • IT Services pages

Favorites menu contains “Helpful HWS Links” folder.

» Logging off the network

Always be sure to log off public lab computers.

Log Off option is available from the Start Menu, or by pressing Ctrl-Alt-Delete.

Password change is available by pressing Ctrl-Alt-Delete when logged into a Windows lab computer.

»Connecting your computer

In order to gain access to network and Internet resources, your computer must meet minimum standards:

  • Windows 2000 or XP;
  • Mac OS X
  • Symantec AntiVirus installed and updated (free download at web.hws.edu/itservices/avinstall )
  • All operating system updates installed

To join your computer to HWSMICRO domain, use easy-to-follow instructions at web.hws.edu/itservices

  • Will give you access to your network drives (M, N, and I) from your own computer)
Created Aug 26, 2005 ( revised November, 2007 )
If you are having difficulty submitting a form or you have unanswered questions, please call the Support Center Help Desk at (315) 781-4357, or e-mail helpdesk@hws.edu.