Krypton: Connecting

Krypton is an interactive platform that makes it easier for students to learn about Linux/UNIX™ systems and remote computing. Designed with instructors in mind, it helps introduce students to hands-on programming in a real-world environment. Users can dive into a wide range of coding tools and languages, including Bash, C, C++, Fortran, GDB, PHP, Python, Ruby, Tcl/Tk, TeX/LaTeX, and Zsh. The platform offers a collaborative space for students to explore programming, debug code, and develop skills with practical exercises. Krypton turns learning into an engaging experience, helping students build proficiency and confidence in essential tech skills.

Question

How do I connect to Krypton?  How do I use putty on my Windows machine to connect to putty?  How do I access Krypton from my Mac?

Overview

File Uploading:

  • The hostname for the server is: krypton.mnsu.edu
  • If you are off campus you will need to use the VPN.  You can get the VPN information in the following FAQ:

Windows: Map Network Drive:

  1. Right-click on My Computer.
  2. Click on Map a Network Drive....
  3. Type \\krypton.mnsu.edu\starID in the folder field. 
    • Note: Replace starID with your own starID.
  4. If you don't want window to automatically try to sign in next time you log into the computer. Unselect Reconnect at sign-in checkbox.
  5. Select Connect using different credentials checkbox. 
    • Note: If you don't do this, windows will try using the credentials you are logged in with on Windows.
  6. Click on Finish.
  7. A log in box should appear.  Enter the following information: 
    • Username: krypton\starID 
      • Note: Replace starID with your own starID.
    • Password:  krypton password.
      • Note: If you don't know your krypton password you can view the following FAQ:  
  8. Click on Ok.
  9. A new window should open with you krypton drive and files.

Macintosh: Connect to Server:

  1. Click on Go on the menu bar on the top of the screen. 
    • Note: If you don't have a Go there click on an open area of the desktop.
  2. Click on Connect to Server....
  3. Enter cifs://krypton.mnsu.edu/starID under the Server Address.
    • Note: Replace starID with your own starID
  4. If you want to mark krypton as a favorite server click the + button.
    • Note:  This will remember the server address in the box below and allow you to select it.
  5. Click on Connect.
  6. A log in box should appear.  Enter the following information: 
    • Username: starID 
      • Note: Replace starID with your own starID.
    • Password:  krypton password.
      • Note: If you don't know your krypton password you can view the following FAQ:  .
  7. Click on connect.
  8. A new window should open with you krypton drive and files.

Changing Password for Krypton:

Krypton is not connected to Active Directory, so users must set up a separate password for use with their StarID. Users can change their password at https://my.mnsu.edu/account by first logging in with their regular StarID and StarID password and then selecting "Change krypton.mnsu.edu password". Users are encouraged to set their Krypton password to be the same as their regular StarID password to avoid problems with mapping drives.

Interactive Access (SSH):

  • The hostname for this server is: krypton.mnsu.edu.
  • If you are off campus you will need to use the VPN.  You can get the VPN information in the following FAQ:
  • If you need to download putty.exe. You can download it at http://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/download.html.

Windows using PuTTY:

  1. Run putty.exe
  2. Enter krypton.mnsu.edu under Hostname (or IP address).
  3. Click on Open.
  4. Enter your StarID when prompted for login as and press enter.
  5. Enter your krypton password when prompted for your password and press enter
    • Note: While entering your password it will act as if you are not typing anything. If you don't know your krypton password, you can view the following FAQ:  Krypton: Set Password
  6. You are now logged into your account.

Mac using the terminal:

  1. Click on Go on the menu bar on the top of the screen. 
    • Note: If you don't have a Go there click on an open area of the desktop.
  2. Click on Utilities.
  3. Locate and double-click on Terminal.
  4. In the terminal window enter ssh starID@krypton.mnsu.edu and press enter.
  5. Enter your krypton password and press enter
    • Note: While entering your password it will act as if you are not typing anything. If you don't know your krypton password, you can view the following FAQ:  Krypton: Set Password
  6. You are now logged into your account.