Getting Started with Technology for Students

Overview

This article provides an overview of important technology resources and support from IT Solutions that all students at Minnesota State University, Mankato have access to.

Technology Setup Checklist

Complete these top five steps to get set up:

1. Activate your StarID

2. Set up multi-factor authentication

3. Connect to Wi-Fi (eduroam)

4. Check your email in Outlook (MavMAIL)

5. Download Microsoft 365 for free

Technology Help, Support, and More

View all Locations and Hours

IT Solutions Center | 507.389.6654

Location: Lower level CSU & first floor Memorial Library

Get help for computer issues, software downloads, and more! We provide tech support online, over the phone, or in-person.

ResTech Services | 507.389.6654

Location: Lower level Carkoski Commons

Technology help and support located in the residence communities for students living on campus.

Campus Computer Store | 507.389.1907

Location: Lower level CSU

Shop laptops, tablets, accessories, cables, and more conveniently on campus or online.

Gaming and Esports Lounge

Location: Wissink Hall 121

Open to all students to hang out, study, and game using specialized gaming equipment at no cost.

20+ Free Software and Tools!

View Software and Tools List

D2L Brightspace

Online portal for classes! Find your syllabus and course materials, submit homework and quizzes, check your grades, and more online.

LinkedIn Learning

Explore thousands of online courses on business, tech, design, and more with your free university account.

Mav Life Mobile App

Get connected to campus! Make friends, discover events, track buses, find resources, and more – all in one place.

Microsoft 365

You get apps free, including Word, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, PowerPoint, OneDrive cloud file storage, and more. Available on the web and for download on your computer or mobile device.

Microsoft Copilot AI Chat

Copilot is your smart assistant to help with research, writing, brainstorming, and more. It's powered by generative AI. See best practices

Microsoft OneDrive

Sync your files to the cloud and access them anywhere on any device. Share documents and work together in real time.

MavLABS

Access campus computer lab software on your own computer, like SPSS, R-Studio, ArcGIS, CAD programs, and more.

MavPRINT

Enjoy complimentary printing on up to 400 pages! Easily upload docs and print on 40+ printers across campus.

StarAlert Emergency Notifications

Be the first to know – receive text message and email notifications in the event of campus-related emergencies.

Zoom

All-in-one app for online classes, meetings, and webinars. Sign in to your secure university account.

Handshake

Search and apply for jobs on campus.

And more!

Tech in the Residence Communities

Students living in the residence communities get access to lots of technology resources. Visit the Residential Life website for all information on technology in the residence communities. 

More About Residence Community Tech

Top Resources

ResTech Services

ResTech Services offers free technology help and support in person or online for residence community students.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Wired internet and Wi-Fi are available in the residence communities with the MyResNet network.

Computer Lab

Residence community students have access to a secure computer lab 24/7.

FAQ

Accounts and Logins

How do I activate my StarID? How do I reset my StarID password?

Go to starid.minnstate.edu to complete StarID related tasks on your own, such as activating and setting up your password for the first time, or resetting your password.

What’s the difference between StarID@go.minnstate.edu and FirstName.LastName@mnsu.edu?

  • Your username for many services on campus, including MavMAIL, is StarID@go.minnstate.edu. For example, ab1234cd@go.minnstate.edu. Don’t share this information with others.
  • Your email address to share with others is FirstName.LastName@mnsu.edu. For example, jane.doe@mnsu.edu. Some students with a common name may have a number on the end.

What is multi-factor authentication and how do I set it up?

  • Our campus uses multi-factor authentication on Microsoft 365 accounts for extra security to protect your information and keep the University safe. It requires you to authenticate your sign-ins with a code or though an app.
  • When signing in for the first time to your account, you must complete the setup process. We recommend using Microsoft Authenticator as the easiest way to authenticate your sign-ins, which uses an app instead of a text message.

Campus Wi-Fi

What Wi-Fi network should I connect to on campus? How do I connect?

  • eduroam is the official Wi-Fi across campus, you'll need your StarID and password to connect. You can connect when you arrive on campus or beforehand. View eduroam connection instructions 
  • MyResNet is the Wi-Fi network that students living on campus should connect to when in the residence community buildings. You'll need to register all your devices when you arrive on campus. View MyResNet connection instructions

Microsoft 365 Licensing

Do I have to purchase a Microsoft 365 license?

No. All students are provided Microsoft 365 licenses for free. Log in or install Microsoft 365

Can I install Microsoft 365 on my own computer?
Yes, you can install up to 5 copies of Microsoft 365 on your own devices. You can also access the web apps online, or download the mobile apps on your phone. Make sure to sign in with your university account to gain access.

Computers and Devices

Do I have to purchase a computer?

  • Although it is not required to purchase a computer, specific technology requirements may depend on your major.
  • University computers are available for student use at no cost in computer labs and the Memorial Library on campus. Laptop and other equipment checkout is available from the Library.
  • If you're interested in purchasing a computer, consider shopping at the Campus Computer Store for deals, customized recommendations, worry-free warranties, and more.

Are there printers available on campus?

Students are provided with 400 pages of complimentary printing every semester through MavPRINT, the on-campus student printing service with over 40 locations across campus. Learn more or log in to MavPRINT

Still Need Help?

Visit the IT Solutions Center page to view current hours, locations, and contact information.

Print Article

Related Articles (6)

How to connect to campus Wi-Fi network eduroam with iPhone (iOS).
How to connect to campus Wi-Fi network eduroam with macOS.
How to connect to campus Wi-Fi network eduroam with Windows.
Setup your work or school using Microsoft Outlook App