Topics Map > *•New to Rice? Getting started with IT
Getting Started with IT for Faculty and Staff
Welcome!
The Office of Information Technology (OIT) sets you up with the technology, accounts, and access necessary to work at the university. This article introduces the basic services that you will need to begin working at Rice. If you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact the OIT Help Desk.
Learn more about campus digital security (viewing requires login with Rice NetID and password).
To view a general overview of services, see Welcome: Faculty & Staff.
Contents
Activate NetID: Setup your login credentials
Getting Connected: Connect to the Rice wireless network
Email: Setup your Rice email
Esther: self-service system for academic purposes
Canvas: Rice's Learning Management System
Zoom: Audio and video conferencing platform
VPN with Duo: Virtual Private Network and Two-Factor Authentication
Setup: Connections and Email
Activate NetID
When can I activate my NetID?
- You can activate your NetID after you are hired and your New Hire paperwork is filed.
- 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.
- New accounts for Rice faculty and staff can be accessed through Google Workspace for Education which provides access to Gmail, 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.
- Accessing your Rice Gmail will require Duo security authentication.
Systems and Services
Depending on your role at the university, different resources will be available to you so check with your supervisor or department coordinator for specific guidance. Use the links below to access the systems and services that are relevant to your new position at Rice.iO
Employee self-service functions, such as direct deposit, employee benefit selections, and absence management are available in the iO system. Financial services and reporting are also part of iO.
- iO Login
- iO Support (request help, training materials)
- Esther Login
- Esther FAQ from Office of the Registrar
Canvas
- Rice Canvas: Canvas login and helpful instructor resources
- Canvas FAQ : Frequently asked questions and answers for instructors
- Rice Canvas 101: Instructor guide to Canvas
- Canvas Workshops: Canvas Training Center
Zoom
Zoom is a cloud-based video and audio conferencing platform that will be used by instructors to hold virtual lectures or office hours. As a Rice faculty or staff member, you will receive a Zoom account that lets you sign into Zoom using your NetID.
- Zoom: Download Zoom and launch a session
- Zoom vs. Webinar: See when to use Zoom or Webinar for meetings
- Zoom Tutorial: Watch videos on how to navigate Zoom
VPN with Duo
The Rice Virtual Private Networking (VPN) system allows secure transportation of data between the university network and a remote computer connected to the Internet outside of Rice. You can access Rice's network resources while off-campus using the VPN.
- Complete Guide to VPN - how to obtain software and use it with Duo, authentication system.
Security and Policies
Proofpoint Protection
Proofpoint is an email protection gateway used to block known threats such as spam and phishing detection. Individuals are able to create and maintain their own safe lists and block lists. Refer to: https://kb.rice.edu/71423.
Rice Acceptable Use Policy, Digital Copyright Compliance and Computer Security
- Adhere and comply to the Rice's Appropriate Use of Information Technology Policy.
- Adhere and comply with the Digital Copyright Compliance at Rice.
- Protect your computer, data and university resources by following the digital security principles in the Security Awareness: Campus Guide (viewing requires login with Rice NetID and password).
Additional Resources for Faculty and Staff
OIT Help Desk
Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(excluding university holidays)
Contact Methods
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 (this link is to be used as directed by Help Desk support staff): BeyondTrust (Bomgar)
In-person support:
Faculty and Staff: request in-person appointment by calling, using the on-line form, or sending email.
Students: See available support hours in Canvas.