BSU Residence Hall Support
Frequently Asked Questions

Network/Computer Information

How do I connect to the network?
Click here for instructions to secure your computer. We strongly recommend following these instructions carefully to avoid problems. Assistance will be available during move-in week or call the Student HelpDesk at 755-4207.

Is wireless access available in the residence halls?
Not at this time.

Should I bring a network cable to connect my computer?
Yes, bring a Category 5 Ethernet cable if you have one. You may also purchase a 25-foot cable for $10 when you arrive on campus.

What are the minimum requirements for my computer to work on campus?
PC’s must have at least a 90 MHz Pentium (or compatible) with Windows 98 or greater, with at least 32MB RAM. We recommend using Windows XP with SP2 installed. If you use a Macintosh computer it must have OS 9.2.2 or greater. Click here for more information about system requirements and recommendations.

What if my computer doesn’t have a network card or Web browser?
We will sell you a network card and install it. Web browsers are installed free of charge. For more information or call the Student HelpDesk at 755-4207.

Can I buy a new computer and/or software at BSU?
The BSU Computer Store sells Apple computers, iPods, accessories and software at a discount to students. For more information visit BSU Computer Store.

What else should I bring for my computer?
We recommend that you bring any original CD’s that came with your computer in the event that the operating system, software or hardware needs to be reinstalled.

Security (Responsible Computing)

What should I do before connecting my computer to the BSU network?
You must follow these steps before connecting your computer to the campus network to avoid problems or virus infection.

Can I connect my computer before I arrive?
No, you must be on campus to connect to the network.

Is antivirus software available through BSU?
BSU provides Symantec AntiVirus software at no charge to all students living in the residence halls. You must be connected in a residence hall for the installer to work. Click here for instructions.

What if i already have antivirus software on my computer?
When you arrive on campus we highly recommend uninstalling any antivirus software you already have and install the Symantec AntiVirus software provided by BSU. Be sure to follow the necessary steps to connect to the campus network.

What will happen if I do not secure my computer as recommended by BSU?
If inappropriate network activity is observed by our Network Manager, your computer will be placed in the quarantine network and necessary steps will need to be taken before being allowed to reconnect to the campus network. This may require reformatting your computer so be sure to have the original CD’s that came with your computer.

Are there any policies I should know about?
Click here to view Acceptable Use Policies.

Other Information  

Is an email account provided by BSU?
Yes, an email account is automatically created when you register for classes. It shall be the responsibility of each student to monitor the University assigned electronic mail account for communications from the University. Click here for information about your email account.

Should I bring my own printer to campus?
You may bring your own printer or print to the residence hall front desk printer. Click here for installation instructions.

How do I backup my files?
We recommend using a USB pen drive to store or transfer files from one computer to another. You may also burn a CD if your computer has that capability. Always keep a backup of your files in the event your computer needs to be reformatted due to a virus or malware activity.

What happens if my computer breaks while I ’m on campus?
If your computer is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, we recommend contacting the manufacturer for repairs. We recommend that you bring any original CD’s that came with your computer in the event that the operating system, software or hardware needs to be reinstalled. We will provide as much assistance as possible and provide local referrals if further repair is necessary.

What about spyware?
We recommend installing tools to protect your computer from viruses prior to connecting to the campus network. Click here for spyware removal tools and information.

Getting Help  

Will there be assistance available during move-in week if I have questions or problems connecting to the network?
Yes, ITS Tech Support Staff will be available to assist you.

Where do I call for help?
Call the Student Help Desk at 755-4207. We are located in Memorial Hall, Room 11. Hours are Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We provide telephone and walk-in support and assistance connecting to the BSU network. However, because student computers are not the property of BSU, we cannot provide hands-on support. If your computer is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, we recommend contacting the manufacturer for repairs. We recommend that you bring any original CD’s that came with your computer in the event that the operating system, software or hardware needs to be reinstalled. We will provide as much assistance as possible and provide local referrals if further repair is necessary.