How do I get onto the University's computing system?
You can start accessing the University's information technology resources from the comfort of your own room as early as move-in day. You start by plugging your computer into your assigned data jack. Then, using the step-by-step instructions in the Getting Connected manual we'll make available on move-in day, you'll need just a few minutes to configure your computer to activate its connection to the University's network. To make this connection, your computer must be equipped with an Ethernet networking card. You also must have received a computer account (Mail@umd or WAM account) from the University, which occurs for new students during their Orientation visit.

Why do I need an Ethernet card?
An Ethernet card enables your computer to connect to the University network through your data jack. It provides a continuous, high-speed connection to the Internet, email, etc. With an Ethernet card, you never have to "dial in" or wait for access, and your Internet connection will be many times faster than a 56K modem. Also, this connection is separate from your phone line, so your phone calls are not interrupted while you're online.

Ethernet cards are sold in the on-campus University Book Center (301-314-BOOK) and in most computer supply stores. This product costs about $20-$25. We recommend the 3Com® brand Ethernet card for its proven reliability and compatibility with the University network. Instructions for installing an Ethernet card in your computer should be included with your purchase; they also are provided in our Getting Connected manual.

What's it going to cost me to use University's computing system?
Unlike many colleges and universities, Maryland does not have a separate computing or information technology fee that students must pay. A small portion of your housing fee is used to pay for data jacks and other equipment, staffing in our Information Systems unit, etc.
Students must pay the nominal cost of printing when they use the WAM computer labs on campus. To do this, you must open both a print account with the Office of Information Technology and a pre-paid Terrapin Express debit account with the Department of Dining Services. Once this is done, your printing charges can be subtracted from your Terrapin Express account.

How do I know if my computer is adequate for my needs at the University?
Please visit http://www.helpdesk.umd.edu/topics/general/minimum_recommendations/ for help in deciding whether your current computer will be sufficient. This web site also recommends specifications for any new machine that you may consider buying and shows special requirements and recommendations made by the various Colleges and Schools at the University of Maryland.

What if I don't have a computer I can bring to campus?
There are more than 35 workstation labs on campus. Many of the labs are open on weekends, and some are open 24 hours, seven days a week. The labs are in residence halls (Centreville Hall on North Campus, and Worcester Hall on South Campus), classroom buildings, libraries, and even a parking garage. A full listing of locations and hours is available at http://www.oit.umd.edu. Labs include computers and advanced workstations, access to scanners and printers, specialized courseware, design software, etc. You should not plan on sharing a computer with your roommate(s).

If I decided to buy a new computer, what kind should I buy?
The University makes no recommendations on computer types or vendors. However, before buying, you should review Maryland's recommendations for minimum system standards for newly purchased computer equipment. We do suggest that you consider the following factors when purchasing a computer:
1. Can it be easily upgraded/expanded?
2. Does the brand name have a history of dependability and performance?
3. What type of warranty does it have?
4. What access (and perhaps costs) to technical support does it offer?

Current recommendations can be found at http://www.helpdesk.umd.edu/topics/general/minimum_recommendations/. It's also a good idea to contact your academic department or visit its web site to confirm its current recommendations.

Will I also need to bring a printer for my computer?
This is a matter of convenience and personal preference. We suggest you discuss the possibility of sharing a printer with your assigned roommate(s). If you don't already have a printer you can bring to campus, we recommend that you reevaluate your personal need to have a printer after you've been on campus for a while. Most students prefer the convenience of printing from their rooms. While some students print from disks they carry to the computer labs on campus.

What types of computer support does the University provide?
Resident Life Information Systems provides Ethernet connection support for all residence hall students and for students living in the University Courtyard Apartments, South Campus Commons and Fraternity Row. This technical support staff can be reached at 301.314.DATA Sunday-Thursday 6:00 pm-9:00 pm and at resdata@umd.edu.

Maryland's Office of Information Technology provides technical support for email accounts, web pages, dial-up access and other services. This technical support staff can be reached at 301.405.1500 and at helpdesk@helpdesk.umd.edu.

Who should I call if I suspect my computer has a virus?
If you suspect your computer has a virus, please contact the Office of Information Technology Help Desk at x5-1500 or visit http://www.helpdesk.umd.edu/. The Help Desk will gladly assist in the removal of the virus.

I’d like to further develop my computing skills. What can you suggest?
The Office of Information Technology (OIT), the libraries on campus and several academic departments offer free or low-cost training sessions on everything from basic word processing skills, spreadsheets and databases to Web design and development. Most classes usually involve a three-hour commitment from you. Further information can be found at http://www.oit.umd.edu/ and http://www.lib.umd.edu/.

Can I get a part-time on-campus job in the computing field?
Yes. A number of on-campus departments have paid positions for student technicians, web designers, programmers and instructors. Within Resident Life, students are employed in the following positions: student technicians, web designers, and programmers. Applications and information about the availability of positions can be obtained by visiting the Resident Life Employment web page or by contacting the department's Student Employment Center (301.314.5111), or Room 2100 Annapolis Hall).

Within the Office of Information Technology (OIT), positions are listed at http://www.oit.umd.edu/Employment/. Cover letter and resume can be submitted to oit-student-resume@umail.umd.edu. Listings for other on- and off-campus positions may be obtained by visiting the Career Center's web site at http://www.careercenter.umd.edu/.

Having problems that we don't cover?

Find help at the following Campus Services

Computing resources targeted for students —
http://www.oit.umd.edu/Student

Computing resources targeted for a diverse audience —
http://www.helpdesk.umd.edu

Services available at the University of Maryland —
http://www.inform.umd.edu

Office of Information Technology's home page —
http://www.oit.umd.edu

Resource containing information on courses, registration —
http://www.testudo.umd.edu

Libraries at the University of Maryland College Park —
http://www.lib.umd.edu/

Search through all of the UMCP's online resources—
http://www.searchum.umd.edu

Information on WAM accounts —
http://www.wam.umd.edu