Getting Started with IT for Undergraduate Students
Welcome to Rice University! The following information will introduce you to Rice IT resources.
Welcome!
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 as you have questions or need assistance. Check out our advice on technical requirements for your personal computer and how to obtain free or discounted software.
Contents
Activate NetIDGetting 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 Authentication & VPN: Two-Factor Authentication and Virtual Private Network
Activate NetID
Each Rice student is given a Student ID (e.g. S01234567) and a NetID (e.g. dfd7). A Rice student ID is mainly used as the login credential (Username) for Esther while NetID is your unique login credential for most Rice resources. Having a NetID will allow you to gain access to the various computing systems at Rice. A NetID could also be used in conjunction with Duo, a two-factor authentication, as well for systems that require additional security (Esther or VPN).
When can I activate my NetID?
- For New Students (Fall Semester), upon completion of the acceptance process (late April or early May) and after your initial deposit is received, you can then 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 your acceptance and admission 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: Connect your computer to the Rice network and set it up to use Rice printers.
Step 2: Connect your mobile devices to the Rice network.
The following are the different ways which you can access your Rice Google Email.
- Third-Party Mail Setup: Access your Rice email through a mail client such as Microsoft Outlook, Apple Mail, etc.
- Google Mail: Use your NetID@rice.edu and Rice Google Password (set up on NetID) to access your Rice email through G Suite for Education
Google Workspace for Education provides access to email, in addition to other tools such as Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Sites, Groups, Contacts, Keep, Chat, and Meet
Esther
- Esther Login
- Course Registration Instruction
- Esther FAQ
- Note: Esther login is now done through NetID (not Student ID and Login PIN)
Canvas
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.
- Rice Canvas: Canvas Login and Student Resources
- Canvas FAQ: Commonly asked Canvas questions for Students
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 undergraduate are given Zoom License accounts that lets them sign into Zoom using their NetID.
- Zoom for Rice Students: Download Zoom and launch a session
- Best Zoom Practices: Advice on appropriate etiquette while videoconferencing
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 Students
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 Students: List of all the Free and Discounted Software
Collaboration and Storage Options: Storage, File Sharing, and Collaboration Resources for Students
Get Started: Students - OIT web site
Undergraduate Student Guide to Technology Services (.pdf flyer, 232 KB)Download Adobe Acrobat Reader
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.