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
Activate NetID
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.
- 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

- 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

Getting Started with Duo
Install VPN Client Software
Rice Acceptable Use Policy, Digital Copyright Compliance and Computer Security
- 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
Need technical support? Contact the OIT Help Desk
Telephone Support
- By phone: 713-348-4357
- Campus extension: xHELP or x4357
- 8 am – 8 pm Monday - Thursday
- 8 am - 6 pm Friday
Online Support
- 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.