New Student Technology Information

Where can I get answers to my questions about computing at Luther?

Technology Help Desk
Phone: 563.387.1000
Web: http://lis.luther.edu/helpdesk
E-mail: helpdesk@luther.edu

The Technology Help Desk is located in Preus Library and is open during the same hours. Feel free to contact them with any computer or technology questions.

Do I need a computer?

About 95% of Luther students bring a computer to campus, but it’s not required. Luther has over 600 computers in 22 general computing labs including mini labs in most residence halls. In additional, there are specialized departmental labs, computer stations in Marty’s Cyber Cafe, Kiosk’s in the Union and Preus Library and laptops available for check out in the Library.

Can I get connected to the Internet from my room?

Yes. All students living in the dorms have access to ResNet, a high speed Internet connection that is provided at no additional charge. More information can be found at the ResNet Service Page

Can I setup my own network in my room?

No. In order to preserve the health of the campus network, individuals are not allowed to connect personal routers or switches to their network port. This restriction includes personal wireless devices such as routers, hubs, or switches (a.k.a. access points). While these devices are often desirable to individual users, use can interfere with the network and cause large-scale network outages. Luther’s wireless initiative aims to provide wireless access to public spaces in residence halls when technically feasible.

Is there wireless Internet on campus?

Yes. Wireless Internet is available in most buildings and residence halls on campus. We recommend purchasing computers that support dual band 802.11N wireless (both 5GHz and 2.4GHz) for best performance. Visit http://lis.luther.edu/services/wireless for complete information.

If I buy a computer, what type should I buy?

Luther does not require a specific brand or type of computer, nor do we sell new computers. However we do highly recommend the following two companies, Apple and Dell, who offer discounts to students. Because Luther purchases computers from Apple and Dell, there are several promotions available at the links below.

• Dell – http://dell.luther.edu
• Apple – http://lis.luther.edu/services/buyacomputer (note: you will need to login to the LIS site to access this page)

Dell Laptop
Dell Latitude E6420, 2.50 GHz, Intel Dual Core i5-2520M, 2 GB RAM, 250 GB hard drive, 8X DVD±RW, 14.1” display, 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless, Office 2010, Windows 7.

Dell Desktop
Dell Optiplex 790 Minitower, 3.1GHz, Intel Core i5 2400, 2GB RAM, 320GB hard drive, 16X DVD±RW, 19” widescreen LCD monitor, Office 2010, Windows 7.

Apple Laptop
MacBook Pro, 2.4GHz Intel Dual Core i5, 4GB RAM, 500 GB hard drive, Superdrive 8x (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW), 13.3” display, 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless, AirPort Extreme Card & Bluetooth, Office 2011, Mac OS X Mountain Lion.

Apple Desktop
iMac, 2.5GHz Intel Quad Core i5, 4GB RAM, 500 GB hard drive, 8x SuperDrive, 21.5” glossy widescreen LCD, 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless, AirPort Extreme, Office 2011, Mac OS X Mountain Lion.

As a general rule, the higher the specifications on a computer, the longer its useful lifespan will be. Every year, LIS roll outs new computers to the faculty. The above are the technical specs of the machines they’ll be receiving this year. We hope this gives you an idea of what we think will work for the faculty and maybe an idea of what to purchase for yourself.

Should I buy a laptop or desktop?

This comes down to a personal choice. Personal laptops are not required nor expected. A laptop takes up less space and with a wireless card, can be used just about anywhere on campus. The cost of a laptop is higher though. Desktop computers are cheaper and generally have more power. However, you will give up space in your room plus have to purchase a monitor, external keyboard, and mouse.

Will the computer I have already work?

Any computer made in the past five years with a 10/100 Mbs Ethernet card will work on Luther’s network. Older operating systems such as Windows 95 or 98 or Mac OS 9 or earlier may experience some troubles and are not necessarily supported by the Help Desk.

What else will I need to buy?

It is highly recommended you bring a CAT5 or CAT6 network (Ethernet) cable. Even if you plan on using wireless, a cable can help. The Help Desk also recommends bringing a USB Thumb Drive or Flash Drive.

Microsoft Office (specifically Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) are the three most used pieces of software that will be used during your time at Luther. This software is available for a discounted price through vendors or at Microsoft’s Ultimate Steal website.

Beginning Fall 2009, Luther faculty, staff, and students can obtain the latest full version Adobe software at 80% off commercial retail pricing. Visit Adobe Student Licensing to view the prices and purchase software. At the time of purchase, you will be asked to verify you are a currently enrolled student or an active faculty/staff employee. You can also view and print the Adobe Creative Suite 5 flyer.

What about viruses and malware?

In order to connect to ResNet, all computers must have up-to-date anti-virus software and critical security patches. The network will search for and quarantine computers that do not comply.

Luther provides Sophos Anti-Virus free of charge to all students for their entire time at Luther. You can get Sophos at summer registration, from the Help Desk in Preus Library, or download it from http://sophos.luther.edu.

Spyare and Malware has become a major problem with computers in recent years. See our Safe Computing page for information on how to stay safe and keep your computer healthy. Should you become infected or have troubles with viruses, the Help Desk can provide tools and information to assist you. See more at the Virus Removal page.

When will I get my e-mail account?

When you apply to Luther, you will receive an email notification that contains your Luther Norse Key. Keep it in a safe place as your Norse Key is the user name and password to access my.luther.edu to check your application status, your pending correspondence, your Luther financial aid data and search for course sections. Once you are admitted to Luther, you will be able to use your Norse Key for your Luther e-mail, web pages, network storage, access to online course material, and Library resources. You will have access to these services long before you show up to Luther and can begin using your Norse Key immediately.

Will my classes use the Internet and computers?

Luther classes often make use of a variety of Internet and computer resources. Many professors use KATIE which allows them to make announcements, post assignments, give quizzes, and more. Your first experience with KATIE will be during Student Registration and Placement Tests.

How much storage space on a network drive will I have?

Students are allotted 1 GB of network storage that is backed up on a nightly basis. For more information, visit the Network Storage page.

Will the Help Desk fix my computer?

The Help Desk will help you connect to ResNet, configure Sophos Anti-Virus, and help with other minor issues. We are not able to provide general repair. Visit the Tech Service Catalog and look under Computer Support for more information.

Can I use my computer skills in a work-study job?

Good with computers? Enjoy helping people? Then considering filling out an Application Form with the Help Desk. We hire in J-Term and Spring semesters and do not require you to be an MIS or CS major.

Can I get at my Luther personal information online?

Much of your personal Luther information – grades, class registration, and financial documents – are available at http://my.luther.edu. Access is protected by your Norse Key.

What about using a cell phone at Luther?

Current students have found that many different providers and coverage plans service the Decorah area, but it’s a good idea to check with your provider. It’s also a good idea to get some experience with using your cell phone on campus before relying on it as your primary means of communication. The physical structure of some campus buildings may impede clear connections.

Providers with a local Decorah office include:

• U.S. Cellular
• iWireless
• Verizon

New Student Registration Video

The New Student Registration video is shown during summer registration at Luther. It covers information including how to reset your Norse Key and My.Luther.

How Can I Replace a Lost or Damaged ID Card?

ID Cards can be replaced by visiting the Dining Services office in the Union. More information can be found at http://www.luther.edu/dining/identificationcards/.