IT Services
Training Tips
Training tips and tricks to help you get the most out of the wide array of useful technologies and services available at the University of Chicago. Check out IT Services on Twitter every Tuesday for the latest #TrainingTipTuesday.
Training Tip: Change Your Display Name
As University of Chicago faculty and staff, you can change the name that appears in the University directory and Outlook. For example, if you have a preferred name that is different than your legal name, you can change it yourself by following the instructions. There are also video instructions to guide you through the process.
Training Tip: Secure IoT Devices
The Internet of Things (IoT) includes devices like smart watches, smart TVs, smart speakers, and smart appliances. Whether you are using these devices for teaching and learning, application development, or personal use, there are safeguards you can take to prevent security threats.
Here are a few steps to increase your IoT device security:
- Choose a strong password and enable two-factor authentication when possible.
- When using on your home network, use a strong password for your router and check it’s using a secure Wi-Fi standard.
- Keep the device software updated with the latest security patches and firmware.
For more information, check out the IoT device guide IT Services created.
Training Tip: Be Smart on Social Media
Social media is a convenient way to connect with friends and family, but you may also use it to promote events, publications, and other activities happening at the University.
Like any other online account, you should take steps to make sure your information is secure. Here are a few smart social media steps:
- Use a strong password.
- Enable two-factor authentication whenever available.
- Check privacy settings, and make sure you accept how your information is being shared.
- Before accepting friend requests or direct messages, check to make sure you are comfortable communicating with that person.
For additional guidance on staying safe on social media, visit security.uchicago.edu.
Training Tip: Create and Store Strong Passwords
A strong CNetID password is your first line of defense against anyone trying to gain access to your University account. To create a strong CNetID password, choose one that contains at least 12 characters and combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. You can also select a passphrase, which contains at least 19 characters, including punctuation and spaces between words or letters.
Strong, complex passwords can be difficult to create and remember. Password managers, such as Password Safe or LastPass, generate strong passwords and store them securely in one place. To compare features among the most popular password managers, view a list from PC Magazine.
Also, remember to update your password regularly.
Training Tip: Locate or Wipe Missing Mobile Devices
Many University community members use their mobile devices for two-factor authentication (2FA) or to perform work, such as checking emails or accessing files from Google Drive or Box.
If your mobile device is ever stolen or lost, you can take measures to protect any information that may be at risk. If you have location services turned on, you can locate your device or remotely wipe all information by using either Find my iPhone or Android Device Manager.
Get instructions for iOS (iPhone, iPad) or Android devices.
Training Tip: Start Autumn Quarter with Cybersecurity Awareness
It’s the first day of Autumn Quarter and also the start of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. By knowing about potential threats, you can help protect yourself and the University community.
A common tactic cybercriminals use is phishing, which is sending a legitimate-looking email that appears to come from a trustworthy organization or website but is really an attempt to gather personal and financial information from a recipient.
If you think you’ve received a phishing email, do not respond to it, open attachments, or click any links in the message. Instead, report it to security@uchicago.edu. You can visit the Information Security website to see the latest phishing emails reported to and addressed by IT Services.
Learn more at security.uchicago.edu/phishing.
Training Tip: Get Answers to Your IT Questions
Autumn Quarter begins next week, and IT Services has a quick start guide on the technology resources available for UChicago students. Visit its.uchicago.edu/students to get answers to common questions like how to claim your CNetID, connect to the University wireless network, set up your email account, and others.
To get support with these IT questions, contact IT Services online, by phone, or in-person.
Training Tip: Get Around the UChicago Campus
With Orientation Week kicking off this weekend, check out the navigation tools available to guide you around the University of Chicago campus. First, visit maps.uchicago.edu for an interactive look at campus buildings and landmarks.
The UGo shuttles offer students, faculty, and staff a free ride around campus with a simple tap of your UChicago ID card. You can also view CTA bus routes that service campus in the system. Download the TransLoc app for your phone or mobile device for easy tracking on the go.
Finally, view the UChicago Safety and Security website for information on parking and additional transit options.
Training Tip: Find the Best Time to Meet in Outlook Mobile
Similar to the Outlook desktop app or Outlook on the web, you can view your colleagues’ availability and select the best meeting time. In the Outlook mobile app, create an event from your calendar and add your coworkers to the People field, then you’ll see an indicator of attendee availability on the date picker. Outlook will let you know right away if the time works for everyone. To find an alternate time, just drag and drop the event until it turns green indicating everyone is available at that time. You can also track the RSVPs for your meetings—green check marks indicate they’ve accepted, red X’s indicate they’ve declined, and grey question marks indicate they haven’t responded yet.
For more details on scheduling a meeting in Outlook mobile, read the Microsoft support article or watch an instructional video.
Training Tip: Access Software for UChicago Students
The new academic year at University of Chicago starts one month from today. Whether you’re a new student or you’re returning for Autumn Quarter, get a head start on the school year by viewing the list of available software. IT Services provides UChicago students with free or reduced-cost access to a wide range of software, such as Microsoft Office and MATLAB.