Computing
Computing at Cornell
Cornell Information Technologies (CIT)
CIT serves as Cornell's central information technology organization, providing support for computers, telephones, multimedia equipment, and the networks that connect them. Be sure to click on "Students," in the "Pages for:" section in the header on the CIT home page.
The CIT HelpDesk
The HelpDesk supports and provides general information about Cornell's computing services. This includes questions about activating your NetID.
Computers and Software
Computer Recommendations
What sort of personal computer do you need in the campus environment? What should you consider when purchasing a new system? Learn more.
Purchasing Computers through the Cornell Store
At the Cornell Store's Technology Connection you'll find computer equipment from several manufacturers that is available to the Cornell community at academic-discount prices. In addition to computers, they also offer software, accessories, computer service, and books on computing.
Software
Many new students ask what sort of software they need. Beyond a word processing program and antivirus software (you can download this for free from Cornell), it really depends on your field of study. Much of the software you might need is provided as available equipment in the university's computer labs. Software differs for each lab. If there is software required for a class that is not available in the labs, you should be able to purchase it at the Cornell Store.
Also, CU Software Licensing Services serves the Cornell community as a resource for software pricing and core applications used by students.
Instructional Services
Computer Labs
Cornell does not require you to own a computer. You can use Cornell services and work on assignments in the university's computer labs around campus (some run by CIT, others by various colleges and departments). The labs have a variety of software, Windows and Macintosh computers, and networked laser printers.
Blackboard
blackboard.cornell.edu is used by instructors at Cornell to provide online course materials, including notes, slideshows, quizzes, and more. Learn how to use Blackboard, including how to find your courses on it, at the Blackboard for Students page.
Internet Access at Cornell
All residence halls provide Internet connectivity for all residents. Most residence hall rooms have both Wi-Fi and wired network connections.
Cornell also provides Wi-Fi service in key public spaces throughout the campus, including libraries, student study lounges, and many campus dining facilities and academic buildings. Standard and secure access are offered.
Learn how to get connected to Cornell's Wi-Fi and wired services.
Protecting Your Computer
Protecting Your NetID
Theft of electronic IDs assigned to students, such as Cornell's NetIDs, is a rapidly growing problem. Protect your NetID by setting a strong password and managing it safely.
Securing Your Computer
Keeping your computer secure is a university requirement, and it takes vastly less time than recovering from a security problem. Take these steps to secure your computer.
Internet Safety
Whenever your computer is connected to the Internet, it is under constant attack by criminals seeking to steal information, send spam emails, distribute illicit material, or attack other computers. Learn how your computer can be attacked, and about online privacy and fraud at CIT's Internet Safety page.
File Sharing - A Word of Caution
Using peer-to-peer software, even once, could set up your computer to distribute files automatically, which can slow down your computer and network connection, increase your network usage bill, open your computer up to be compromised, and get you in trouble for copyright violations.
To learn more about peer-to-peer programs and how malware gets onto your computer, see www.it.cornell.edu/security/safety/malware/peer.cfm.