IT Quick Start for Students

Summary

Here you will find a quick start guide for Chico State Students.

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Quick Links: | Getting Online | Accounts & Security | Campus Applications | Technical Support |

Getting Online 

Campus Wireless (Wi-Fi)

Chico State offers free wireless access for personal and university-managed devices, including laptops, tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, and game consoles.

  • Use eduroam for laptops, phones, and tablets: Eduroam Wi-Fi
  • Use csuchico to connect smart TVs, game consoles, and similar devices: csuchico Wi-Fi
    • Devices like Alexa, Google Home, or smart plugs may not work because they require your phone and the smart device to be on the same network. Since your phone connects to eduroam and smart devices use csuchico, they won’t be able to communicate. 

GlobalProtect VPN

Chico State uses GlobalProtect VPN to provide a secure, encrypted connection to the campus network from off-campus locations.

  • Use the AlwaysOn VPN for campus-managed devices. It should already be installed when you receive your device.
  • Use the OnDemand VPN for personal devices.
    • VPN access is not automatically provided unless required by your class. Students can request semester-based access: Student VPN Opt-In

Accounts & Security 

Your Chico State Account provides access to most campus systems via Single Sign-On (SSO). You can manage your account via Account Center.

If you forget your password or if it expires, you can reset your Chico State password by following the guide on our Knowledge Base: Reset Chico State Password (Portal Password)

Chico State Portal

The Chico State Portal provides a central location for many campus resources, including Microsoft 365 (your Chico State email), Account Center, Google Workspace, CSU Learn, Chico State Alerts, Canvas, and more.

Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.)

Students receive a Microsoft A3 license, which includes access to their Chico State Email and access to both online and desktop Microsoft 365 Applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.). 

It is recommended that the Outlook Mobile App be used for accessing your Chico State Email on a phone or tablet: 

Duo Multifactor Authentication

Chico State uses Duo to add a second layer of security to your Chico State accounts. Verifying your identity using a second factor (like your phone or other mobile device) prevents anyone but you from logging in, even if they know your password. You can learn more about Duo Multifactor Authentication on our Knowledge Base.

Note: Never approve any Duo Prompts (notifications or calls) that you did not initiate. Do not share the Duo Passcode from the mobile app or text message. If you are receiving prompts you did not request or are being asked to provide a code, change your Chico State password immediately.

Tips for Staying Secure

College campuses are, unfortunately, a huge target for phishing attacks. Typically, these messages will include offers that seem too good to be true, such as job offers or financial aid awards you didn't apply for. Other times, they'll create a false sense of urgency, claiming there's a problem with your account (like it's about to be deleted) and pressuring you to "confirm" your username and password right away.

Here are a few quick tips:

  1. Never approve Duo prompts you didn’t request. Change your password if you receive one.
  2. Use the KnowBe4 “Report Phishing” button to report suspicious emails.
  3. Double-check sender email addresses. A fake name with a legitimate-looking address is a common tactic.
  4. Never share passwords, ID numbers, or Duo codes. Chico State will never ask for this information by email.

Campus Applications 

You can find a full list of software applications provided to campus in our Knowledge Base article for Campus Software Licensing & Purchasing Agreements

Adobe Creative Cloud

Adobe Creative Cloud is a suite of applications used for design, media production, and creative development. Chico State provides access to Adobe CC on Windows, Mac, and some mobile devices. Popular apps include Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, Premiere, and Acrobat Pro.

To learn more or begin using Adobe Creative Cloud, visit our Knowledge Base: Accessing Adobe Creative Cloud

Canvas

Canvas is Chico State’s official learning management system for coursework and communication. Students can access assignments, quizzes, discussion boards, and class materials in one place.

To learn more or get help with Canvas, visit our Knowledge Base: Canvas Support Guides

ChatGPT Edu

The CSU system now provides access to ChatGPT Edu, a powerful AI tool available for use by faculty, staff, and students. ChatGPT Edu can support research, writing, brainstorming, tutoring, and more, while meeting CSU’s privacy and security standards. 
 
To learn more or begin using ChatGPT Edu, visit our Knowledge Base: Getting Started with ChatGPT Edu

CSU Learn

CSU Learn is the training platform used throughout the California State University system. It delivers mandatory compliance training and professional development courses for Chico State faculty and staff.

To learn more or access CSU Learn, visit our Knowledge Base: CSU Learn Overview

Google Suite

Google Suite is available for students, faculty, and staff to collaborate and create content using tools like Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, and more. While Outlook is used for email, Google Apps remains available for academic and administrative use.

To learn more or begin using Google Suite, visit our Knowledge Base:  Google Workspace Applications

Kurzweil

Kurzweil is an inclusive, text-to-speech tool that supports reading, writing, and learning for all students. Chico State offers training and support to students and faculty using Kurzweil for instruction or accommodations.

To learn more or request access to Kurzweil, visit our Knowledge Base: Kurzweil 3000

Microsoft 365 Suite

Microsoft 365 is available to all Chico State students, faculty, and staff. This suite includes powerful tools like Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneDrive for productivity, collaboration, and communication, on both desktop and mobile devices. It also provides cloud storage and access to email via Exchange.

To learn more or begin using Microsoft 365, visit our Knowledge Base: Microsoft 365 for Personal Devices

SPSS

SPSS is a statistical analysis software available to Chico State students, faculty, and staff for coursework and research. It is commonly used in the social sciences for data analysis, survey authoring, and predictive analytics. Both Windows and macOS versions are available for download.

To learn more or install SPSS, visit our Knowledge Base: IBM SPSS

Zoom Virtual Conferencing

Zoom is used across campus for virtual classes, meetings, and collaboration. Chico State provides full Zoom access to faculty, staff, and students, including features like breakout rooms and cloud recording.

To learn more or get started with Zoom, visit our Knowledge Base: Zoom Virtual Conferencing

Technical Support 

The IT Support Client Portal contains the Service Catalog, where you can request services and technical support, and the Knowledge Base, where you can find how-to guides and troubleshooting tips.

IT Support Services (ITSS)

IT Support Services provides support for most technical issues on campus for staff, faculty, and students; this includes password and account help, software installations and licensing, email support, and more. ITSS offers limited support on personally owned hardware.

You can find the hours and contact information for IT Support Services on the Support Portal homepage or on the ITSS Homepage.

Center for Technology Equity (CTE)

The Center for Technology Equity ensures that every member of the campus community has equitable access to the digital tools and resources necessary for thriving in today's interconnected world. Services include software support, device lending, training, and free or reduced Internet plans.

You can find the hours and contact information for the Center for Technology Equity on the CTE Homepage.

 Still need help? Contact IT Support Services for further assistance.
  
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Details

Details

Article ID: 113579
Created
Mon 6/12/23 2:00 PM
Modified
Wed 6/11/25 3:10 PM