PC or Mac?

• Yes please, we support both so it’s up to you!
• Computer Science majors should go with a Dell because of the software they will need to use.
• A Dell brand laptop running Windows or an Apple MacBook running macOS are recommended as your main device and work best with our WIFI.
• Chromebooks and iPads may be a great secondary devices but are not recommended as a primary device.
• It is recommended to get the extended warranty, with accidental coverage is preferred.
• Dell education pricing at https://www.dell.com/uwlax. 
• Apple education pricing at https://www.apple.com/us-hed/shop.

Recommended minimum computer specs:

• Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor
• 256 GB SSD Storage
• 16 GB RAM
• Latest Windows or MacOS
• Increased storage, RAM, and processor speed are better, if your budget allows.

Chromebook or iPad?

We do not recommend these as primary devices. They are great additional resources to a laptop or desktop, but are not sufficient replacements.

What software do I need?

• We provide Microsoft Office 365 for FREE! Students can download Office from their email portal.
• Antivirus software is STRONGLY recommended. Paid versions, such as Webroot, offer more features, though there are free options available. Examples: Bitdefender, Avira, Webroot, Malwarebytes
• Depending on your major, you may want/need to buy additional software such as Adobe Creative Cloud.

Should I buy a printer?

• Printing is available on campus. The rates are $0.05/page for black-and-white and $0.60/page for color prints.
• Personal printers cannot use Wi-Fi and must be connected via USB to a your computer.

Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus for Students

Antivirus & Malware Software 

Virtual Desktop (WVD - Windows Virtual Desktop)

• For more information, go to: https://www.uwlax.edu/its/system-administration/virtual-desktop/.

NetID

This unique username allows you to log into most UWL technology services. It consists of your last name followed by four randomly generated numbers in the format [Lastname.####]. For example: smith1234. 

• For more information about your NetID, check out https://www.uwlax.edu/its/knowledge-base/netidemail/.
• *Note: Student accounts are deactivated and deleted or they lose access to their school accounts about 6 months after graduating or leaving UWL.

Student ID Number

Your student ID number is a 9 digit number that is only associated to you and it shows that you are a part of UWL. This number should have been originally given to you by Admissions, but your student ID number can also be retrieved from Records and Registration if you have miss-placed or have forgotten it overall. Your student ID number is not the same as your NetID and it is used for a various of reasons, especially when needing to use the password reset page in order to activate your NetID for the first time, to recover your "Expired or Forgotten" password. 

• • *Note: If you need assistance with a physical student ID card, then please reach out to the Card Office instead. Information about physical student ID cards can be found here too:https://www.uwlax.edu/university-centers/services/eagle-id/ .

Account and Password Management

ITS provides a convenient self-service password and account reset page. This tool helps students gain first-time access, the ability to reset passwords and unlock your account 24x7 at: https://www.uwlax.edu/password. Click on First Time Access if you have never used your NetID, click on Password Management if you need to recover or reset your password, click on Account Locked if you are experiencing an account lockout.

                                                                                                                                                      

   

Okta is our 2-step authentication method needed when logging into UWL accounts, like Canvas, WINGS and email. This authentication method requires a second device, like using the Okta Verify Mobile app on a smartphone, which is our most recommended and most common choice of Okta device. This makes your UWL account more secure against online attacks and phishing because if your password becomes compromised, only you have access to the Okta device for your account. 

• Need more information about Okta? Then check out our KB: Okta - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

• Log in at: http://wings.uwlax.edu. 
• WINGS Help: https://www.uwlax.edu/wings/
• For more information about how to access WINGS, then check out this KB article: WINGS - How do I log in?

File Storage

Phishing Information - Cyber Security 

Sometimes you may receive "phishy" or spam-like emails sent to your UWL email account. Thus, we encourage UWL students to be on the lookout for potential phishing attacks and emails. More info at Phishing - How to Spot a Phishing Email.

Print remotely to multiple printers on campus from your computer using your NetID. More info at https://www.uwlax.edu/its/client-services-and-support/pay-for-print/.