Computing Services @ Campbell University
Fall 2009
Table of Contents
Computing Services Helpdesk
Contact Information
Page 1
Computer Virus Information
Page 2
Computer Spyware
Information
Page 3
Campbell University Email
Account Information
Campus Map and Wireless
Network Information
Pages 4-5
Pages 6-7
Technology Purchase Discount
Information
Page 8
Free Alternatives for common
software
Page 8
Network Resources
WebAccess
Blackboard
Network Access
Online Library Resources
Page 9
Computer Maintenance
The Computing Services Helpdesk at
Campbell University was created to serve
the Computing and Technology needs of
the University Community.
The needs of our students change and
expand every year. Just a few short
years ago, many students were able to
make it through their entire college career
without using a computer. Students now
encounter computers or computer-controlled devices at all levels of
their daily life. Cell Phones, iPods, Facebook, Google, Twitter, and
other internet sites have become important parts of our student’s
everyday lives and educational experiences.
At the Helpdesk, our technicians work to meet the student's needs by
advising students through phone support and face to face contact,
endeavoring to educate students to help make them able to fend for
themselves in the sometimes unpredictable world of computing and
technology.
Page 10 In the case that issues are beyond the scope of what can be done
through simple communication, the Helpdesk is available to help with
some basic computer repairs. When warranted, we will refer students
to offsite help.
Recommended Computer
Specifications
Page 10
FAQ—Frequently asked
Questions
Page 11 Help is available from the Computing Services Helpdesk in the
Password Protection
If you have questions or need help, please contact us. We are here to
help you with your technology questions.
Page 12
following ways.
In person
Our office is located in the basement of
Baldwin Hall. We are open
Monday through Friday 8:30—5:00
Phone
Toll-Free 800.334.4111 ext. 1208
Local 893.1208
On-campus ext. 1208
Email
helpdesk@campbell.edu
Live Chat
http://helpdesk.campbell.edu
Computer Viruses
Computer viruses have been around for many years. The very first viruses 'in the wild'
were found on Apple machines back in 1981. They are much more prevalent now because
of the number of computers in existence and the ease in which we connect to the
internet. Computing Services blocks access through the network to many websites which
are known to distribute viruses and spyware. These precautions are not foolproof and all
members of the Campbell community must be vigilant in protecting every computer and
other internet-capable devices.
Viruses are one of the most common problems we encounter at the helpdesk. To help
alleviate the problem, the University has purchased a site license for Sophos Anti-Virus for
all Campbell University students. The University requires that all students have a
subscription-based anti-virus program on any windows-based machine which connects to
the university network. Please note: Students are NOT required to use Sophos, but they are required to use a
subscription-based anti-virus program.
Over the years, we have discovered that although most new computers ship with a trial version of an anti-virus
program on their computer, many students do not take the time to renew their subscription to the anti-virus
service. Using an anti-virus program without subscribing to the update service leaves your computer open to any
new viruses which are created. It is VITALLY IMPORTANT for the safety of your computer
that you update the virus definitions regularly for the program to be effective. The version
of Sophos Anti-Virus we distribute to students updates hourly and best of all—It is free for
ALL Campbell University Students.
Download and installation instructions for Sophos Anti-Virus will be emailed to new
students in late summer and will also be available on the Computing Services Helpdesk
site. The University also offers versions of Sophos for Mac and Linux systems also. Many
people mistakenly believe that Macs and Linux based systems are not susceptible to
viruses. This is absolutely not true. There have been viruses reported which have affected
both Mac and Linux systems. Remember, the very first computer virus recorded was on an
Apple computer.
Beware of unexpected or unsolicited email attachments
Beware of pop-up messages while surfing the internet
Use an anti-virus program to regularly scan your hard drive
Be wary of links in Facebook and IM sessions
Update your anti-virus program regularly
Purchase or obtain files or software only from trusted sources
Scan downloaded files before accessing them on your machine
Avoid forwarding email attachments unless you first scan the
attachment for viruses
Apply Recommended and/or critical security patches to your
operating system regularly
Spyware
What is spyware? The term spyware generally refers to any program that
collects and transmits information about a user’s internet browsing or other
computer habits. Originally, spyware was relatively benign. Some of the original
tracking cookies allowed websites like Yahoo to customize page ads based on
your search terms or by tracking which ads you actually clicked on. Over time,
spyware became more malicious. Now, spyware STEALS IDENTITIES. Some
spyware now reports back to a central server every link you click and also any
information you key into web forms - including address, phone number and
credit card information. Additionally, if enough spyware gets on your machine,
you may have trouble accessing the internet because the different spyware
agents fight for control of your connection. We have never had a computer
brought to the helpdesk for service that did not have at least a few pieces of
spyware. Many have thousands of pieces of spyware when they are brought to
us. Fortunately, there are products available, many of which are free, which will
help control spyware on your machine.
Avoiding spyware takes some discipline and practice. When downloading and
installing programs (especially free programs) you must read each of the installation screens carefully. Many times,
spyware-laden programs are installed with other programs we download. For example, for several years,
Weatherbug (spyware!) was installed with AOL Instant Messenger if you did not change the default installation
settings. You must carefully read each of the screens when installing new software.
Additionally, you should only download programs from reputable sites. You can use Google to try to find out if a
program is spyware BEFORE you install it. For Example: If you Google the phrase smiley central spyware you
will notice that many of the hits indicate that the program is spyware or installs spyware components.
Recommended FREE anti-spyware utilities
include:
Spybot Search and Destroy— not to be confused
with the spyware unfortunately carrying a similar
name, is a free utility. In addition to scanning and
removing spyware, there is an immunize function.
Immunization helps to block a number of items
from installing in the first place, protecting the
machine.
Ad-Aware— uses a thorough scan of the drive,
scanning through the whole drive rather than just
known infection areas. This means it takes longer,
but makes it a good complimentary scan to Spybot.
Malwarebytes— is a relatively new tool. It is very
good at disabling and removing Trojans’
Additional information and links to these
programs are available at:
http://helpdesk.cambell.edu
Is your computer watching YOU?
Email@Campbell
Campbell University Student Email System
Upon initial registration of a student, Computing Services creates a
Campbell University email address that is commonly used by professors,
student life officers, athletics, business office personnel, and others to get
in contact with students for classes and other University business. Each
mailbox currently has close to a 7Gig limit for storage (limit increases
periodically) and a 20 MB limit per message for sending.
In addition to email, the system also has many other features, including a
calendaring system and online programs to create documents,
spreadsheets and presentations. Graduates of Campbell University may
keep this email address for life.
Additional information about your Campbell University email account is
available at: http://helpdesk.campbell.edu
What is my username and password?
All student usernames are created using the following algorithm. Usernames and email
accounts are created the first time a student registers for a course at Campbell University.
Username: [FirstInitial][MiddleInitial][LastName][birth month][birth day]
Password: [last 6 digits of your social security number]
Example:
George Thomas Blimpton | Birthday 05/07/84 | SS# 999765432
username: gtblimpton0507
password: 765432
Email Address: gtblimpton0507@email.campbell.edu
Note: All Months and days will be converted to 2 digit format, therefore 5/7 becomes 0507
Note: Additional Punctuation symbols such as apostrophes, spaces, or dashes will not be included in the email address.
Note: If a middle initial is not on file in the system, an underscore will be used instead.
Note: Access your email at: http://start.email.campbell.edu
If you cannot access your accounts using this information, please contact the helpdesk for assistance.
Use disposable email addresses (yahoo, hotmail, etc...) when registering for online services or websites. Many
websites require you to register before allowing access to their content. By creating an email address just for the
purpose of registering online, you will cut down on spam to your standard email address.
Do not respond to "opt-out" statements in email addresses unless you are comfortable that the sender is a
reputable company. Many spammers use the "opt-out" statements to verify email addresses. Once you reply, you
could be placed on a list to receive even more spam. Some "opt-out" statements are legitimate, but you must use
common sense. Unless you know that the company is legitimate, your safest recourse is to just mark the message
as spam in the interface and delete the spam message.
Be sure that any mailing lists you subscribe to do not release the names of their members.
Avoid publishing your standard email address on blogs and other websites. Many programs troll the web looking for
email addresses to add to mailing lists.
Email@Campbell
Campbell University has partnered with Google to bring you
the best email and online applications available today.
Here are the “Top 10” reasons to learn about the powerful tools available to you through this system.
1. Use your computer to call Mom and Dad for free – Google Talk lets you talk free to anyone
who’s online and has the Google Talk client.
2. Collaborate on group projects painlessly – no need to cross campus at night to work on a
group presentation when you can share and finish it online instead.
3. Take your club to the next level – create a public calendar of events that anyone at school
can see on their own calendars.
4. Beat the “freshman 15” together - schedule a workout on your calendar – and your
friend’s.
5. Work from any computer – with Google Docs, your papers are automatically saved and
stored online, so you can access them anywhere you have an Internet connection.
6. Get organized - your calendar can send you automatic reminders for whatever it is you need to do.
7. Chat inside your email – with Google Talk in your Campbell University email, you don’t need to open (yet) another
application.
8. Get email from your other accounts – Your Campbell University email lets you check your
email regardless of where it’s delivered.
9. Dig out from under the spam – you have enough to do without having to pick through your
inbox to find your “real” email.
10. Find important email messages quickly and easily – you only have to know what you’re
looking for, not who sent an email or when.
Additional information is available by logging into your Campbell Student email inbox and clicking help or
by visiting: http://google.com/support/a/users/
If you do not recognize the sender of the message and/or the subject line is
senseless or offensive, delete the email.
Do not open attachments unless you are expecting them. Even if you know the
sender, you should be very careful opening attachments. Although an email may
look like it is from someone you know it is possible a spammer is spoofing their
email address. More on Email spoofing here:
http://www.windowsecurity.com/articles/Email-Spoofing.html
Use antivirus software and keep it updated.
When you receive e-mail advertisements or other unsolicited e-mail, do not open
attachments in them or follow web links quoted in them.
How do I access my Campbell Email?
All student email accounts may be accessed through the Campbell University Email Portal.
The portal is located at: http://start.email.campbell.edu.
Orange Ovals indicate areas of wireless
network coverage.
Most classroom buildings and residence
halls have wireless access. Additionally,
ALL CU owned residence halls have
wired connections in every room.
ent
dwin Basem
Helpdesk Bal
In the past, improper setup of wireless routers by students has caused problems for other
students. Additionally, unsecured wireless routers cause network security issues, therefore,
students are not allowed to have a wireless router or access point anywhere on the Campbell
University campus. If a non-university owned wireless access point or router is discovered in your
room, your network connection may be disabled for the remainder of the semester and the router/
access point may be confiscated.
File sharing has, in the past, interfered with official University Business and valid educational
endeavors and therefore, is not allowed at any time. Please delete Kazaa, IMesh, Limewire, Aries,
and/or any other file sharing programs on your machine before coming to campus.
Free alternatives for common computer
programs.
Most students on campus use many different computer products. MS Windows, Media
Player, Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and Internet Explorer are a few that are used
frequently. Although most of these are good programs, there are other alternatives,
many of which are free and sometimes more secure. Using alternatives generally means
you will need to invest time in learning how to use the program, but many times the
benefits outweigh the time investment. Here are some of our favorites:
1.
A fine alternative to Microsoft Internet Explorer is Mozilla Firefox. Firefox is an opensource offshoot from the old Netscape browser. You have much more control over
Firefox than you do Internet Explorer. There are extensions and plug-ins to stop ads, download video, play music,
automatically preview pages without leaving your current page. Firefox also incorporates tabbed browsing which
allows you to open multiple windows without opening multiple sessions of the browser. Most importantly, at
this time most people believe that Firefox is more secure than Internet Explorer. The developers seem
to have chosen security as their number one priority. It is well worth trying. It is available at: www.getfirefox.com
2.
Open Office - A fine replacement to Microsoft Office. Free! Allows you to save files in formats that can be read by
Microsoft Office products. Great choice for those on a strict budget. Available at: www.openoffice.org
3.
Linux - Open source operating system. There are many, many variants of Linux. One of the easiest to install and
learn to use is Ubuntu Linux. Free! You may want to install on an old machine that you don't use anymore. The
processor requirements for Linux are much lower than newer Microsoft operating systems. A popular version is
available at: www.ubuntu.com
4.
Gimp - Great, free program for image manipulation. Very similar to Photoshop. Steep learning curve, but there are
lots of tutorials online. Available at: www.gimp.org
5.
Opera - Another free alternative to Internet Explorer. Great ad blocking and security features. Available at
www.opera.com
Technology Purchases
As with any purchase made for the incoming student, parents seek the best deals.
In an effort to help with that, Campbell University has partnered with several
companies. We have discount agreements with Apple, Dell, ScholarBuys, and
GovConnection.
Microsoft Office Enterprise Suite is currently available for less than $100 through
the Scholarbuy site. Retail is close to $500.
Hardware discounts are not as steep, but can still save you up to several hundred
dollars depending on your purchase. Currently, the Campbell University Apple site
can save you at least $200 off retail on a MacBook Pro.
For additional information, visit: http://helpdesk.campbell.edu
Network
Resources
@Campbell
Unified Login to University Systems
Currently, WebAccess, most library databases, CU network access, and the Blackboard Learning Management System all
use a common login and password. The login and password are automatically created the first time a student registers
for classes. The WebAccess system controls the password for the other systems. Even though this login is used by most
systems on campus, it is generally referred to as the WebAccess login by most people on campus
Initially, the WebAccess username and password are the same as your email username and password. If you change
your WebAccess password, you are also changing the password for all of the other systems except email. The email
password must be changed inside of the email system.
Additional information about each system is included below.
Changing
this
password
Also
changes
these
passwords
WebAccess
Campbell University WebAccess is a web based information management tool
that allows current Campbell University students, staff, faculty to access
numerous online resources such financial profiles, academic information and
financial aid.
wa.campbell.edu
Network Access
The residential student network and the campus-wide wireless network is
available to students by using their WebAccess username and password.
For more network information please visit the student helpdesk website.
Blackboard Learning Management System
Blackboard is a learning management system used by many professors on
campus. It is used for internet courses and also to enhance classroom learning.
Students will be able to gain access using the WebAccess login credentials if/
when they are enrolled in a class with a Blackboard requirement.
www.blackboard.campbell.edu
Library Databases
The university libraries subscribe to a large collection of online resources. When
students are not on campus, the webAccess username and login must be used
to access these password protected areas.
www.lib.campbell.edu
The Campbell University email password is NOT changed when you change the WebAccess
password. The password for the email system can only be changed after logging into the email system.
Computer Maintenance
Basic computer maintenance requires a few simple steps. These don't have to be performed in any order, but
do need to be performed on a regular basis. This can help keep a new machine running like new for as long as
possible.
Clean out Temporary Internet Files
This serves a dual purpose. Temporary Internet Files not only bog a machine down, but are a known hiding ground for
viral and spyware files. Clearing these once a week can limit the area needing to be searched for malicious files and
help keep your machine running well.
Defragment the Hard Drive
Although this sounds technical, it is very easy to do.
accessories/system tools directory of the start menu.
Generally speaking the defragment tool is located in the
Antivirus and Antispyware Scans
Scanning for malicious software does take time. We often recommend doing this before leaving for a meal or even
overnight, if you run your computer overnight. It is important to make sure that any spyware or viruses that can be
detected are removed.
Cleaning the intake vents on your computer
A simple can of air can remove the dust build up that occurs in a machine. Dust will clog the air vents on a computer,
causing heat to build up. It's this heat build up that accelerates failure in parts of the computer such as the processor,
memory and hard drive. This makes this an important step in the care of your machine.
Restart Your Machine Occasionally
Computers, as you open and close programs, sometimes have processes that hang in memory. This slows them down.
The easiest way to deal with this is to restart the machine every few days.
Apply Critical and Recommended Operating System Patches
All software needs to be patched over time. As new threats are discovered, software manufacturers release updates for
their software. It is important that you apply all security patches to your operating system.
Recommended Minimum Computer Specifications
Feature
ew
Desktop PC
ew
Laptop PC
ew
Apple Desktop
ew
Apple Laptop
Used
Computer
RAM
2 GB
2 GB
2 GB
2 GB
1 GB
CPU
Intel Core 2 Duo
Intel Core 2 Duo
Intel Core 2 Duo
AMDX2 Dual Core AMDX2 Dual Core
Intel Core 2 Duo
Intel Pentium 4
CD/DVD
CD-RW/DVD
CD-RW/DVD
CD-RW/DVD
CD-RW/DVD
CD-R
Hard Drive
160 GB
80 GB
160 GB
80 GB
40 GB
Operating System
Windows XP
Vista
Windows XP
Vista
OS 10.5
OS 10.5
Windows XP
Vista
Ethernet/Wireless
Yes/o
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/Yes
Yes/o
Note: Windows versions prior to Windows XP are not supported on the Campbell University networks.
Note: These are recommended specifications only. Although students are not REQUIRED to have a personal computer for any undergraduate
program, most students do have a personal computer to enhance productivity.
F@Q
Frequently Asked Questions
QI brought a game system and want to connect online with it. Can I do that?
A Absolutely. Game systems are computer based and, like any other computer system, must be registered on the
network. To do this, simply click on the Alternative Systems link on the student helpdesk website, complete the form
and submit. Instructions for common game systems are included on the webpage.
Q I purchased a computer and it came with a year subscription to an antivirus that I've paid for.
Do I have to use
yours?
A No, you don't.
Our requirement is that you have an updated, subscription based antivirus of some kind active on
your system. If you don't, Sophos is an option paid for by the University for your use. The key point to that is that it
must be subscription based. Ninety day trials do not qualify.
Q Do I have to have a computer?
A No, but you may find it useful. We have some suggestions regarding what you should look for in this newsletter and
on the Helpdesk website.
Q My room phone doesn't work. Do I call you?
A No, that is actually handled as part of the utilities of your dorm.
You would need to contact your dorm's RD or your
floor's RA and initiate a work order with Physical Plant for that.
Q My computer's slow. Can I just bring it to you?
A Although bringing the computer to the helpdesk is always an option, many issues can be resolved by using the
software available on the Spyware and Antivirus pages from the student helpdesk website. We would also be happy to
assist you over the phone with any software installation or usage questions you may have.
Q What is my student identification number?
A When you register as a student, Campbell University assigns you a number, one that identifies you in the system.
We ask for that number just as a security identifier to make sure we are actually talking to you when you ask us for
things like WebAccess and Email login information. The number is included on the back of your Campbell ID card.
Q My parents want to call and ask for my WebAccess/Email login information. Will you
give it to them?
A Unfortunately, because of some legal concerns, we cannot.
While there are forms
that give parents permission to speak to the Registrar's office to obtain grades and other
information, those do not affect our office. If you wish for them to be able to access
your Web Access Account or Email, you will have to give them that information.
Q How did I get this virus/spyware?
A There's no easy answer to that. You could have downloaded it or it could have been
shared by a friend who contracted an IM virus and sent you a link.
Pa$$w0rd
Pr0tect10n
*********
Strong passwords are important because generally that is the first line of defense between you and a hacker. Strong
passwords can help you protect your computer resources and more importantly your identity. It is important to create
passwords that are both easy for you to remember and also hard for someone else to discover.
Strong Passwords are:
at least 6 characters - the longer the better
contain uppercase & lowercase letters
contain non-alpha characters ($%&!)
contain numbers
Strong Passwords are NOT:
variations of your name or login
dictionary words
names of your pets or family
easily discovered numbers such as license number, telephone number, etc…
all numbers or all lowercase letters
It is relatively easy to create passwords that are both easy to remember and hard to break. For example: Gc3$/glS is
a good, strong password. It has a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, it contains a number and non-alpha
characters. It also is relatively easy to remember. Here is the phrase it is based on.
G Gas
c cost
3 three
$ dollars
/ per
g gallon
l last
S Spring.
Computing Services recommends that you change your WebAccess password regularly. After logging in, just click on
change password. Additionally, you should setup your computer to lock itself after a short period of inactivity to keep
unauthorized users from accessing your machine. To setup a screensaver password in Windows:
Right-click on a blank part of the Windows desktop
Choose Properties
Click on the Screensaver tab
Click the On Resume, password protect button
Choose a short period of time (5 or 10 minutes)
Click OK