Need help with Banner or logging in to Canvas? Computer running slowly or might have a virus? CIS is here to help!

Plan Your Return to Campus

Make Sure Your Windows Computer is Ready for the School Year

If your computer has not been on the campus network or isn't connected to the Always on VPN ("SPU-AOVPN") in some time it will likely need to run several hours of updates and security patches when you connect to the campus network.  Avoid this disruption by connecting to a campus VPN prior to returning or plan your schedule around updates running when you return. If your computer is not able to connect to the SPU-AOVPN, please schedule an appointment with the CIS HelpDesk to make sure your computer can connect to campus and is receiving all its security patches.

Is Your Computer Connected to SPU?

CIS works behind the scenes to make sure your SPU-issued Windows computer is updated with the latest security patches, performing optimally, and has access to the SPU Software Center. Device management is crucial in protecting and securing sensitive information, and you can do your part by making sure your SPU computer connects to our management domain.

To ensure your device is secure and connecting properly, please follow the instructions on the Software Center page to load and install an application (we recommend using this time to make sure Zoom is on the current version 5.10.7). If you are unable to load the Software Center or the installation does not succeed, please contact CIS so we can make sure this service, as well as other update services are running correctly on your computer.

For Windows 11 devices, the same can be said for Company Portal since Windows 11 does not carry Software Center. For more information on Company Portal and its use, please refer to this SPU wiki page.

Software Updates

Some software tools, such as Zoom, won't work unless you are on the current version.  Make sure these tools are updated before you need them in class. If you didn't already install the latest version of Zoom from the Software Center on your computer (see above), do so now and check if other software updates are available.

Office Equipment

Gather any office equipment that you took home for the summer. Possible items may include your computer, monitor(s), docking station, cables, keyboard, mouse, printer, headset, webcam, office chair, etc. Carefully package your equipment when transporting to avoid costly damage. 

Please Check Your Classrooms in Advance!

Windows 11

Since Windows 10 will no longer be supported after 2025, we have begun the transition for moving all SPU-managed devices to Windows 11. Over the summer, we successfully upgraded all classroom podium computers to Windows 11. The upgrade process for academic and lab computers will continue throughout the year, and we will keep you informed as these upgrades take effect. For faculty laptops, the CIS team will coordinate with departments to facilitate this upgrade.

For more information on Windows 11 and how to familiarize yourself with the new OS, please visit our Windows 11 training resources on the SPU Wiki.

In-Person Classes

Stop by your classroom and log in to the podium computer or try plugging in your laptop if you plan to use it for your lessons to make sure you have the right adaptors. Do a quick run-through of a presentation and test any specialized software. If you spot any problems, please contact the CIS Help Desk at 206-281-2982 or www.spu.edu/cishelpdesk.

If you need a refresher on how to operate the podium PCs or other presenting technologies in classrooms, please first refer to the recorded lesson on SPU Classroom Technology. To schedule a one-on-one training with a CIS technician, please contact the CIS HelpDesk at 206-281-2982 or www.spu.edu/cishelpdesk.

If you might need to record or stream your in-person class to support a student not able to be in the room, please test your webcam and microphone with the computer in the classroom (or be prepared to bring your laptop). If you have any questions about recording with Zoom or Panopto, sharing the recording with your class, or need a webcam and microphone please contact Educational Technology and Media at etmhelp@spu.edu for advice as soon as possible.

Online Classes

If you will teach online, please ensure you have a Canvas course set up. If you are teaching synchronously, please also familiarize yourself with setting up a Zoom class and make sure Zoom is updated to the latest version. Start here for information about features available on Zoom and how to get signed up. A Zoom Licensed account should be used for any class instruction. This will allow you to host a class over Zoom class of unlimited duration and with up to 300 participants.

CIS Staffing Shortage

Like many administrative offices, CIS continues to experience staffing shortages.  The dedicated folks in CIS thank you in advance for your patience as we churn through your support requests at a slower pace than either of us would like.

Classrooms and Technology

With all podiums now upgraded to Windows 11, in addition to becoming familiar with Windows 11, there are two changes we want to highlight for using the classrooms with podiums that we want you to know.

1. Please note that you will now need to sign in with full SPU Email (including the "@spu.edu") as the username when signing into podiums.

2. All podiums will now default to extended display on classroom monitors.

   • When first signing into the classroom podium, the monitors are set up to Extended Display by default. This means the classroom monitors will not mirror the main screen (which has been our practice in previous years); instead, each monitor will display separate content. You can move your cursor and windows between these screens.

Classroom Changes and Updates

In addition to the changes made last year to classroom spaces to bring integrated hybrid features to campus, the rooms below have also been updated or are in process of being upgraded.  Please read below for more information.

Peterson Hall 302

This summer, we simplified the AV system in PET302 to a laptop-only classroom. Now users can plug in their laptop to one USB-C cable that connects them to power, a mouse, keyboard, and new lightweight and flexible document camera. The document camera can be used in a standalone application on your laptop or within video conferencing software, like Teams or Zoom. You can find the document camera instructions on this wiki page.

Additionally, the TVs that were already installed in this space have been left for direct connection via an HDMI cable.

These updates along with a QR code of those doc cam instructions have been posted in the room to guide users through the changes.

Demaray Hall 356

We would also like to remind campus of our spring project to add hybrid capabilities to DH356. This room is also now laptop-only with the same new document camera that integrates into your laptop, as well as a PTZ camera and lapel microphone for conferencing or recording lectures.

This room also has a sign posted to indicate room changes and instructions on how to operate the hybrid features. Navigate to this wiki page for those instructions.

Eaton Hall 112 and OMH 109 Lecture Halls

These lecture halls are also currently in the process for hybrid classroom upgrades. These upgrades will be completed by the start of the school year. 

SPU Classroom Technology Training

CIS has published various technology training videos over the past year including one co-hosted with ETM on Classroom Technology.  You can find this and other recordings here.

Subjects covered specifically in the SPU Classroom Technology video are:

• 00:00-25:45 - review of existing technology in classrooms (computer podium, projector controls, document camera), troubleshooting potential technology issues

• 25:45-38:00 - recording lessons in an on-campus classroom (Panopto), hardware needed to record, recording challenges in the classroom

Emergency Classroom Support

Even with good preparation it is always possible that some technology will not function as expected in the classroom. It is CIS's priority to assist you in these cases.

If you run into technology problems in your classroom, call the CIS HelpDesk at 206-281-2982. We will do everything we can to provide assistance on the phone or dispatch a technician to your room as soon as possible.

Our goal is to correct technology issues before they turn into a classroom crisis. If you experience any trouble at all during a class period but can't wait for support, please be sure and let us know about it later by emailing us at help@spu.edu.

Software in Classrooms and Academic Labs

All classroom and lab computers have a broad range of software installed and configured, but please let the CIS HelpDesk know if anything is missing. Additionally, if there are any new software needs, please inform the CIS HelpDesk as soon as possible. There is often a review and testing process required for new software.

For more information on how to request new software for academic computers or how to request an update to existing software, see here.

Protecting Student Privacy

We all value our privacy and are frustrated when others are careless with the sensitive information, we entrust them with.  You are entrusted with sensitive information about students and others the Seattle Pacific University community and you share in the responsibility to protect our students by complying with regulations and University policies.  The Regulated Data Chart provides a simple overview of which places have the security and contractual protections to store certain types of sensitive Regulated Data. You can also learn more about campus Data Policy, Data Laws and Regulations, and Handling Confidential Data responsibly.

Using a Personal Computer for Work

Personal computers and departmentally purchased computers (unmanaged) do not have the same security and regulatory compliance protections that SPU-managed computers purchased and managed by CIS have.  Personal devices or cloud resources (Google Docs, DropBox, etc.) used for work purposes are subject to eDiscovery and can be confiscated or seized if they are suspected to contain information related to a lawsuit against the institution.  Protect our student's data, yourself, your property, and the University by following the Use of Personal / Un-Managed Devices for Work policy.

Use OneDrive for Cloud File Storage

Storage platforms like Dropbox and Google Drive are not compliant for sensitive or regulated University data, such as information protect by FERPA.  OneDrive for Business is the contractually protected platform approved for storing sensitive documents in the cloud.  

Peer-to-Peer File Sharing and Copyright Compliance

File sharing software that copies and distributes songs, movies, videos, games, and software applications without the permission of the owner is a Copyright Law violation that can subject you to criminal and civil liability. Content owners use technological means to track the file sharing of their intellectual property on the Internet. SPU is required by law to inform you if we are aware, you have violated copyright law and must provide your information to copyright owners for legal action if you do not cease illegal activity.  You are responsible for the activities of your computer when connected to the campus network. See Copyright Basics and DMCA Copyright Compliance / Peer-to-Peer File Sharing for more information about copyright compliance.

Adjusting Campus Services

As part of the SPU135 initiative, we would like to remind you that CIS will be making adjustments to campus software throughout the school year to help ensure a better future. CIS representatives will work closely with department leaders to facilitate these changes and develop strategies for a smooth transition, providing the best possible support during this process.

Thank you for your cooperation as we move forward with these adjustments.

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Technology Services Catalog

Could your work benefit from new tools or technologies? The University may already provide the tools you need. Browse through the Technology Services Catalog to see all the software and systems available to you.  Also check out the CIS Services page to look at business services that CIS offers including consultations on your area's operations.  

Updating your Computer

If your computer has not been on the campus network for a while or isn't connected to the Always on VPN ("SPU-AOVPN") in some time it will likely need to run several hours of updates and security patches when you connect to the campus network.  Avoid this disruption by connecting to a campus VPN prior to returning or plan your schedule around updates running when you return. If your computer is not able to connect to the SPU-AOVPN, please schedule an appointment with the CIS HelpDesk to make sure your computer can connect to campus and is receiving all its security patches.

Is Your Computer Connected to SPU?

CIS works behind the scenes to make sure your SPU-issued Windows computer is updated with the latest security patches, performing optimally, and has access to the SPU Software Center. Device management is crucial in protecting and securing sensitive information, and you can do your part by making sure your SPU computer connects to our management domain.

To ensure your device is secure and connecting properly, please follow the instructions on the Software Center page to load and install an application (e.g.: update Zoom to the latest version). If you are unable to load the Software Center or the installation does not succeed, please contact CIS so we can make sure this service, as well as other update services are running correctly on your computer.

For Windows 11 devices, the same can be said for Company Portal since Windows 11 does not carry Software Center. For more information on Company Portal and its use, please refer to this SPU wiki page.

Windows 11 upgrades on staff devices

As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches, we will be upgrading to Windows 11 for all compatible devices. Windows 11 brings a modern, streamlined user interface, along with ongoing updates and enhanced security. While the changes might not be drastic, they focus on incremental performance improvements and refined features.

The CIS team will coordinate with departments to facilitate this upgrade. Although there is still some time before Windows 10 support ends, we aim to complete the upgrade on all devices before the end of the Fall 2025.

For more information on Windows 11 and how to familiarize yourself with the new OS, please visit our Windows 11 training resources on the SPU Wiki.

Protecting Student Privacy

We all value our privacy and are frustrated when others are careless with the sensitive information, we entrust them with.  You are entrusted with sensitive information about students and others the Seattle Pacific University community and you share in the responsibility to protect our students by complying with regulations and university policies.  If you ever have questions about where it's safe to store protected information, the Regulated Data Chart provides a simple overview of which services have the security and contractual protections in place to store Regulated Data. You can also learn more about campus Data Policy, Data Laws and Regulations, and Handling Confidential Data responsibly.

Using a Personal Computer for Work

Personal computers and departmentally purchased computers (unmanaged) do not have the same security and regulatory compliance protections that SPU-managed computers purchased and managed by CIS have.  Personal devices or cloud resources (Google Docs, DropBox, etc.) used for work purposes are subject to eDiscovery and can be confiscated or seized if they are suspected to contain information related to a lawsuit against the institution.  Protect our student's data, yourself, your property, and the University by following the Use of Personal / Un-Managed Devices for Work policy.

Use OneDrive for Cloud File Storage

Storage platforms like Dropbox and Google Drive are not compliant for sensitive or regulated University data, such as information protect by FERPA.  OneDrive for Business, Teams and SharePoint are the contractually protected platforms approved for storing sensitive documents in the cloud.  Contact CIS if you'd like help moving your business processes to one of these platforms.

Peer-to-Peer File Sharing and Copyright Compliance

File sharing software that copies and distributes songs, movies, videos, games, and software applications without the permission of the owner is a Copyright Law violation that can subject you to criminal and civil liability. Content owners use technological means to track the file sharing of their intellectual property on the Internet. SPU is required by law to inform you if we are aware, you have violated copyright law and must provide your information to copyright owners for legal action if you do not cease illegal activity.  You are responsible for the activities of your computer when connected to the campus network. See Copyright Basics and DMCA Copyright Compliance / Peer-to-Peer File Sharing for more information about copyright compliance.

Adjusting Campus Services

As part of the SPU135 initiative, we would like to remind you that CIS will be making adjustments to campus software throughout the school year to help ensure a better future. CIS representatives will work closely with department leaders to facilitate these changes and develop strategies for a smooth transition, providing the best possible support during this process.

Thank you for your cooperation as we move forward with these adjustments.

Outdoor Wifi Locations

Outdoor WiFi locations are available in Tiffany Loop, Martin Square, and in front of the C-Store.

SPU Online Services 

All of your online services can be found by clicking on the  icon in the top right corner of any SPU webpage and navigating to the Students tab.

Microsoft Office 365 for Education

There are many Microsoft Office products available to you as an SPU student, including:

Printing and Copying

SPU provides a campus-wide printing/copying program for students. There are Multi-Function Printers (MFPs) located across campus for your use. You can submit print jobs via the web from on or off campus and print them from any MFP once arriving on campus.   You can also print directly from your computer or a USB flash-drive, copy, and scan to email.  Document scanning on the MFPs is free and does not require print credit.  Detailed instructions are posted at each MFP and on the CIS website: MFP Student Printing.

Print Credits

You receive print credits at the beginning of each quarter that accumulates through the academic school year as part of your Technology Fee.

• Students enrolled in 12 or more credits get $5.00 per quarter

• Students enrolled in 11 credits or less get $2.50 per quarter.

• When print credit has been used up, you can use Falcon Funds on your SPU ID Card for additional printing.

Watch Out for Scams!

While many illegitimate messages are filtered out of your inbox some may still get through. SPU will NEVER ask you to send or verify your login credentials or other personal/confidential information via email. Your account credentials should not be shared with anyone!

Job Scams

You've probably already received several emails scam offering an employment opportunity from someone who appears to be associated with SPU. Please delete these messages and do not respond. All legitimate jobs at the university are posted on SPU's Handshake platform. Employers on Handshake are vetted to guarantee their trustworthiness.  Here is a blog post with more information to help you identify and avoid employment scammers. If you have any questions about the legitimacy of an email message, please forward it to help@spu.edu. 

Phishing

Phishing scams often come in the form of email messages attempting to steal your username and password. PLEASE DO NOT reply to these messages or follow web links where you must confirm or enter your username and password.   If you have questions about the legitimacy of a message, please forward it to help@spu.edu and we can assist. See this Cybersecurity Awareness Month blog post about phishing for additional information.

Password

To ensure your passwords are as secure as possible, make them at least 16 characters long, use a random combination of mixed-case letters, numbers, and symbols—or create a memorable passphrase consisting of 4 to 7 unrelated words with or without spaces—and make sure to use a unique password for each of your accounts, such as k8dfh8c@Pfv0gB2 for your bank, legal tiny facility freehand probable enamel for your email account, and e246gs%mFs#3tv6 for your social media, thereby significantly enhancing your overall online security.

Peer-to-Peer File Sharing and Copyright Compliance

File sharing software that copies and distributes songs, movies, videos, games, and software applications without the permission of the owner is a Copyright Law violation that can subject you to criminal and civil liability. Content owners use technological means to track the file sharing of their intellectual property on the Internet. SPU is required by law to inform you if we are aware, you have violated copyright law and must provide your information to copyright owners for legal action if you do not cease illegal activity.  You are responsible for the activities of your computer when connected to the campus network. See Copyright Basics and DMCA Copyright Compliance / Peer-to-Peer File Sharing for more information about copyright compliance.

Update Your Emergency Contacts and SPU Alert Info

It is important to be made aware of campus emergencies in real-time, as information is available.

• SPU-Alert is the emergency alert system used to notify you of campus emergencies via text, email, and voice calls. We need your current contact information so that we can send you alerts during a campus emergency.

• Emergency Contact Information includes the contact details SPU should use in the event that an emergency situation happens to you.

The beginning of the school year is a great time to review and update your information. Log into the Banner Information System, go to the Personal Menu, update your information on the Emergency Alert System and Emergency Contact Information pages.

Guest WiFi

Guest WiFi is available for parents, friends, and campus guests. Connect to the network ID called  SPU-Guests, then launch a web browser and follow the guest registration instructions. Guests must provide a valid, non-SPU email address or a text-messaging cell phone number for registration. Guest WiFi is bandwidth-limited. SPU students should use the network named  SPU-Wireless  for high speed internet access.  Learn  more here.

Campus Printing and Personal Printers

There are Multi-Function Printers (MFPs) available to you in many locations on campus. Each quarter you will receive credits to use towards printing and copying. We encourage all students to use these MFPs rather than bring a personal printer on campus. If you do need a personal printer on campus, please know that your wireless printers will not work on the campus wireless network.  Disable the wireless networking on your printer and use a USB cable (available at the SPU Bookstore or other stores) to connect to your computer.

For Information about on-campus printing and copying see:  Student Printing