Computer Information
Detailed information and instructions can be found at the referenced web pages on the Computer and Network Support Website, which is at http://www.westmont.edu/_offices/it/cns/ (hereafter referred to as CNS Website).
Q: How do I get an email account?
A: By the time you receive this booklet, you should know your email address and have already set your password. If you have not set your password, go to https:// my.westmont.eduand select the Reset Your Password link below the Login button. Westmont student email accounts are hosted at Google, but your Westmont email address will be YourUsername@westmont.edu
Q: What network access is available from residence halls?
A: We provide wireless high-speed network access in residence hall rooms 24 hours a day, including the off-campus housing facility at Ocean View.
Q: Where else on campus are wireless network connections available?
A: Wireless network connections are available in all academic areas, Kerr Student Center and Dining Commons, the Study, and various outdoor open spaces near academic buildings.
Q: What computer systems does the network support?
A: We provide network support for: Windows XP/Vista/7, Mac OSX or newer, and Linux. See the CNS Website under left panel, Student Computing, then Information for New Students, then I.T.'s Requirements for Student Computers. You may bring computers running other operating systems, but we will not provide network support.
Q: Is it better to bring a laptop or a desktop?
A: If you want to work on your computer outside your room, a laptop is your best option. However, desktop computers are usually less expensive and less likely to be lost, stolen or broken.
Q: May I bring my own wireless access point (router)?
A: Please do not bring a wireless access point to campus as wireless is available throughout the dorm areas. These devices interfere with the campus network.
Q: How do I get my room connection activated?
A: You will need to read and agree to the Resources Responsible Use Policy found on the Information Technology Website at http://www. westmont.edu/_offices/it then in left panel select I.T. Resource Use Policy. For instructions on how to plug in to the wired connection (if available), see the CNS Website under Connecting to the Wired Network. When you first access the Internet from your room, you will be asked to register with your Westmont username and password. If your connection doesn't work, obtain a paper copy of the Residence Hall Network Troubleshooting Guide from the I.T. Helpdesk on the main level of the Library. If these procedures do not fix the problem, you may bring your computer to the I.T. Helpdesk for help with the setup.
Q: How do I access my Westmont email?
A: Most students use the web interface at https://my.westmont.edu, but you may also use a desktop email client such as Thunderbird, MS Outlook, or Mac Mail. Settings for these email clients can be found on the CNS Website under your Westmont User Account and Email/Google Email FAQ.
Q: Can I continue to use my outside email provider (gmail, hotmail, etc.)?
A: Yes, but you will need to forward your Westmont email to that address. See the next question.
Q: How can I set my Westmont email to forward to a different address?
A: You will need to set the forwarding at Google Mail. For instructions, see the CNS Website under Your Westmont User Account and Email/Google Mail FAQ.
Q: What kind of computer access will I have if I don't bring a computer to Westmont?
A: The Library Commons area on the main floor has 52 iMac computers that run both Mac OSX and PC Win7 operating systems from which you have printer, Internet and Email access. Many departments also have their own computer labs.
Q: Will I need my own printer?
A: All computer labs at Westmont have printers. You may bring or send your files to the Library computers. They should be in MS Word format (Windows or Mac) or plain or rich text (txt, rtf) format so that you can be confident that you can open them on our computers. A fee of 5 cents per page will be charged to your account for printing once you exceed your 500 page semester alottment.
Q: How can I protect myself from viruses and malware?
A: You are responsible to install and keep antivirus software up to date on your computer. For Windows computers, we recommend the free tools "Microsoft Security Essentials" and "Malwarebytes". For Macintosh computers, we are just beginning to see malware threats. At present, we don’t have a recommendation short of keeping current on Apple updates. We will communicate any changes as fall 2012 approaches. Most compromises to computers come from clicking on malicious links sent to you by email. Being very careful about what you click on goes a long way toward reducing your risk for computer infection or identity theft.
Q: What if something goes wrong with my computer?
A: Information Technology supports student computers with problems such as network connection and viruses. For other kinds of problems, we can make a quick diagnosis and make recommendations for repair. Be sure to bring your original installation discs with you to Westmont and any warranty or vendor information in case you need to contact technical support while you are here.
Q: How can I get a job working for Information Technology?
A: I.T. is always looking for student technicians, helpdesk monitors, and telecom assistants. See the On-Campus Jobs link under Student Life at www.westmont.edu.
Q: How can I backup my computer files?
A: There are numerous solutions available, including local backup to an external hard drive and online backup services. You are responsible for your computer files so PLEASE make sure your important files are backed up on a regular basis. If you have questions about this come talk to us at the Library I.T. Helpdesk.