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Contents
Technology for Everyone
3
Log On: Your FlashLine Username and Password3
Get Connected: Wireless Internet4
Stay Connected: Mobile Devices5
Get Around: Wayfinding5
Technology for You
Work from Off Campus: VPN and Library Resources5
Get to Work: Google Apps5
Teach and Learn: Blackboard6
Go Shopping: Personal Computers and Software6
Stay Safe: Antivirus Protection and Security13
Technology for Faculty and Staff
15
Learn New Tools: Software and OS Workshops8
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 Options9
Technology for Students
11
Get Started: Get to Know Your Office Computer15
Stay Up to Date: Faculty Computer Refresh15
You’ve Got Email: Email and Calendars16
Stay In Touch: Email11
Talk the Talk: Office Telephones and Voicemail16
Residence Halls: Tech in the Room11
Grade Your Exams: Scanning Services17
No Computer? No Problem: Campus Computer Labs12
Get Help: Local Support and Training17
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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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