The Information Technology Services (ITS) department is your first stop for tech support. We support Oxy's technical infrastructure, such as wireless, Google Workspace, classrooms. We also employ and train student workers.
Activate Your oxy.edu Account
All Oxy students receive a network account (e.g., yourname @oxy.edu) to access the College’s computer network and various online services, including your email, protected online material and services, and computers in the public computing labs on campus.
In order to set up your account, go to my.oxy.edu and click on Activate account, which will link you to Oxy's password manager software. Using the initial password from your Admissions Portal, log in with your username and initial password. After using your initial password, you will be prompted to change your password; you cannot use the initial password again. Once you have changed your password, please set up security questions so that you can reset your password later if needed.
Log into Gmail
Once you have activated your Oxy account though my.oxy.edu, log in to your Oxy Gmail account; when prompted, type in your full @oxy.edu email address and your newly created password. The first time you log in, you’ll need to accept Google’s terms of service and complete a captcha. Be sure to check your Oxy email regularly, as all official College communication will be sent there.
Get Connected to Campus Wifi
The first time you log onto wireless you'll need to register your device. Computers and phones will usually prompt you to log in. If your device doesn't or cannot prompt you via a browser (smart home devices, some gaming systems, etc.) you can register it using the MAC address.
- How to register a device
- How to locate a MAC address
- Troubleshoot device registration on iOS (the log in prompt wont go away, or an error message appears)
- Report weak or unstable wireless connections
- How to connect to ethernet in the dorm
Please do not attempt to add your own wireless access point or wireless router. They interfere with our own network equipment within the dorms, dirsupting internet access for others in your dorm or sometimes in adjacent dorms. If we determine that there is such a device plugged in we will turn off network access in that location until we receive conformation that the device is no longer plugged into our network.
Secure Your Information
Here are some ways to stay safer online:
- Password change
- Set up security questions
- Enable two-step authentication with Google
- Download anti-virus software from Sophos
If you are concened about any external entity that is pressuring you for personal information or sending you abusive or threatening messages please contact us at helpdesk@oxy.edu
Get Ready for Class
Computers
Oxy students typically bring their own PC or Mac laptops. Chromebooks and tablets may also be used for many class activities, but please note some classes will require software that is not easily accessible on tablets.
- Read more about recommended computer specs and education discounts
- Find a public computer on campus in the Academic Commons
- Check out the Library's Tech Lending program
Printers
You may bring in your own printer if you wish, but you will have access to a number of printers on campus. To print to Oxy printers you'll need to install specific software, called "drivers" on your computer. Otherwise, you can log into any of the computers in the Academic Commons to print to one of the Oxy printers in the building.
- Find and download printer drivers for on campus printing
Moodle & Course Communications
Professors use email for class communications and many also use Moodle and/or Google Drive to share course materials and assignments. Be sure to check your Oxy Gmail regulary and review Moodle for course information.
- Get tips on managing your email inbox
- Learn more about Google Drive (Docs, Slides, Sheets, Forms, etc.)
- Find your courses in Moodle
Occasionally your professors will hold sessions or office hours by Zoom. All students are given a licensed Zoom account.
- How to log in to Oxy's Zoom
Access Software
Students are provided a free version of Microsoft Office and can access software like SPSS, STATA, Matlab and Mathematica via the Virtual Computer Lab. Certain courses will be provided with access to media production software based on faculty teaching needs. We do not currently offer a college wide license to Adobe products. If you have a special software need for your courses or research please reach out to us and we will do our best to find solutions.