Welcome to Rice University! The following information will introduce you to Rice IT resources.
OIT can get you set up with the technology, accounts, and access necessary to study at the university. This document introduces basic services so feel free to reach out for help if you have questions or need assistance. Learn more about campus digital security (viewing requires login with Rice NetID and password).
Activate NetID: Setup your login credentials
Getting Connected: Connect to the Rice wireless network
Rice Google Email: Setup your Rice email
Other Services
Esther: Self-Service System
Canvas: Rice's Learning Management System
Zoom: Audio and Videoconferencing Platform
Duo Multi-Factor Authentication: Required security system
VPN (Virtual Private Network): Secure off campus access to Rice network
Rice Acceptable Use Policy, Digital Copyright Compliance, and Computer Security
Additional Resources for Students
Need technical support? Contact the OIT Help Desk
Each Rice student is given a Student ID (e.g. S01234567 or E01234567) and a NetID (e.g. abc123). Your Rice student ID is mainly used for student identification while your NetID is your unique login credential for most Rice computing resources. Having a NetID will allow you to gain access to the various computing systems at Rice. A NetID uses additional authentication in conjunction with Duo, a multi-factor authentication tool, as well for systems that require additional security (Esther or VPN).
When can I activate my NetID?
The Rice network is the most reliable way to connect to the internet while on campus. To connect to Rice Owls, which is a secure wireless connection open to the Rice community, you can follow the steps below. Note that computers, as well as printers, are accessible in campus labs as well as Mudd Lab and Fondren Library.
Step 1: Connect your computer to the Rice network and set it up to use Rice printers.
Note: Setting up printers may vary by your department
Step 2: Connect your mobile devices to the Rice network.
You can access your Rice Google Email using any of the following methods.
Canvas is Rice's Learning Management System (LMS) for all course-related curriculum needs. Canvas will be the main platform used for classes but it can also be used for passing on important announcements.
Zoom is a cloud video and audio conferencing platform that will be used by instructors to hold virtual lectures or office hours. Each Rice graduate student is given Zoom License accounts that let them sign into zoom using their NetID.
Duo Security is an authentication service that provides additional security for access to university and personal data and accounts. Duo offers several options for verification: a mobile push notification, one-button verification of identity to a smartphone, as well as voice and SMS verification.
In order to use computers on the Rice Network, you must:
IT Status: Stay informed on IT Maintenance and Events
OIT: Office of Information Technology service information
Software Available for Students: List of Free and Discounted Software
Collaboration and Storage Options: Storage, File Sharing, and Collaboration Resources for Students
Get Started: Students - OIT website
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(excluding university holidays)
Phone: 713-348-4357 or on-campus extension: xHELP or x4357
Online form: https://oit.rice.edu/request-help
Email: helpdesk@rice.edu
Remote support: BeyondTrust (Bomgar)