Getting Started with IT for Faculty and Staff
The information below provides the steps for getting started with the different resources that are available for faculty and staff. Using this document, you can activate your NetID, connect to the wireless network at Rice, setup your email as well as learn about the various tools that are available to assist faculty and staff.
Welcome!
OIT can get you set up with the technology, accounts, and access necessary to work at the university. This document introduces basic services so feel free to reach out for help as you have questions or need assistance.
Contents
Activate NetIDGetting Connected: Connect to the Rice wireless network
Email: Setup your Rice email
Install VPN Client Software
Esther: Self-Service System
Canvas: Rice's Learning Management System
Zoom: Audio and Videoconferencing Platform
Duo Authentication & VPN: Two-Factor Authentication and Virtual Private Network
Activate NetID
NetID is your unique login credential (Username) for Rice resources. Having a NetID will allow you to gain access to the various computing systems at Rice. A NetID could be used with Duo, a two-factor authentication, as well for systems that require additional security (Esther or VPN).
When can I activate my NetID?
- After you are hired and your New Hire paperwork is filed, you can activate your NetID.
- Your Rice NetID is established within 24-48 hours in which you will receive an email that includes your Rice ID upon completion of your employment status.
- Make note of your NetID during the activation process.
The Rice network is the most reliable way to connect to internet while on campus. To connect to Rice Owls which is secure wireless connection open to the Rice community, you can follow the steps below.
Step 1: OIT Support Staff can assist you in connecting your primary computer to the Rice network and set up Rice printers through contactless support.
Note: By selecting the links below you can connect your personal computer to the wireless network. Printers will vary by your department.
Step 2: Connect your mobile devices to the Rice network.
- New accounts for Rice faculty and staff can accessed through Google Workspace for Education which provides access to email, in addition to other tools such as Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Sites, Groups, Contacts, Keep, Chat, and Meet.
- Email can be set up using a mail client such as Microsoft Outlook, Apple Mail, etc.
Other Services
Depending on your role at the university, different resources will be available to you so check with your supervisor or department coordinator as well.Esther
Esther is the self-service system that contains a lot of data for Rice faculty and staff. Using Esther, you can view your pay information, view your course rosters, download tax forms and much more.
- Esther Login
- Esther FAQ
- Note: Esther login is now done through NetID (not Employee ID and Login PIN)
Canvas
Canvas is Rice's Learning Management System (LMS) for all course-related curriculum needs. Some Rice training for staff may be presented through Canvas while instructors use this platform frequently as a digital learning environment.
- Rice Canvas: Canvas Login and helpful Instructor Resources
- Canvas FAQ : Commonly Asked Questions for Instructors
- Rice Canvas 101: Instructor Guide to Canvas
- Canvas Workshops: Canvas Training Center
Zoom
Zoom is a cloud video and audio conferencing platform that will be used by instructors to hold virtual lectures or office hours. Each Rice faculty or staff are given Zoom License accounts that lets them sign into zoom using their NetID.
- Zoom: Download Zoom and launch a session
- Best Zoom Practices: Advice on appropriate etiquette while videoconferencing
- Zoom vs. Webinar: See when to use Zoom or Webinar for meetings
- Zoom Tutorial: Watch videos on how to navigate Zoom
Duo Mobile Authentication
Duo Mobile is a two-factor authentication service that can be utilized for systems that require an additional layer of security such as Esther, VPN and NetID login.
Getting Started with Duo
All about Duo: Learn all you can do with Duo including managing and enrolling devices as well like using the authentication service while traveling.
Install VPN Client Software
Rice University uses the Duo Authentication service in order to protect VPN access to Rice systems. The following are the installation links for the AnyConnect VPN Client. Campus login is required for all of these softwares.
Rice Acceptable Use Policy, Digital Copyright Compliance and Computer Security
In order to use computers on the Rice Network, all users must:
- Adhere and comply to the Rice Appropriate Use of Information Technology Policy
- Adhere and comply with the Digital Copyright Compliance at Rice
- Protect your computer and data by securing your computer from phishing, malware, viruses, etc.
Additional Resources for Faculty and Staff
IT Status: Stay informed on IT Maintenance and Events
OIT: Office of Information Technology Website - links to all resources related to technology and accounts in Rice
Software Available for Faculty and Staff: List of all the Free and Discounted Software
Teaching and Learning Tools: Canvas, Learning Spaces, Course Tools and Request Forms
Collaboration and Storage Options: Storage, File Sharing, and Collaboration Resources
Get Started: Faculty & Staff - OIT web site
Need technical support? Contact the OIT Help Desk
Telephone Support
- By Phone: 713-348-4357
- Campus extension: xHELP or x4357
Hours (excluding holidays):
- 8am – 8pm Monday - Thursday
- 8am - 6pm on Friday
Online Support
Please provide detailed information regarding your issue or question and how to contact you.
- Utilize this online form: https://oit.rice.edu/request-help (preferred over email)
- Via email: helpdesk@rice.edu
- BeyondTrust (Bomgar) (start a remote support session)
Contactless Technical Support Only
All in-person services (walk-in support and office visits) have been discontinued.
All OIT support services will be provided remotely until further notice.