Getting Started with Technology for Employees

Summary

New employees, start with this employee tech guide to get set up with technology at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Body

Overview

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

Technology Setup Checklist

Complete these top steps to get set up:

1. Activate your StarID (this will be your login credential to almost all campus softwares)

2. Set up multi-factor authentication

3. Connect to Wi-Fi (eduroam) (university computers will automatically connect, but be sure to set up eduroam on personal devices too)

4. Check your email in Outlook (MavMAIL)

5. Check your tasks in Workday

6. Check The Fountain for University news, events, and info (employees only)

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. Faculty can also get technology support while in the classroom.

Academic Technology Services | 507.389.6654

Location: Memorial Library 88 (CETL)

Instructors can consult with Academic Technologists for training and assistance with classroom technology tools and online course design.

Campus Computer Store | 507.389.1907

Location: Lower level CSU

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

Top Software

View Software and Tools List

Microsoft 365

Apps include 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

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

D2L Brightspace

Learning management system for face-to-face, hybrid, blended, and online courses. Upload materials, create quizzes, enter grades, and more – all online.

Workday

Cloud-based system where employees can complete tasks like entering time, creating reports, managing purchases, and many other HR and finance tasks.

Teaching and Learning Tools

Tech support for instructors and tools for screen capture, active learning, online teaching, and more.

Key Communication Tools

Zoom and Zoom Phone

For online meetings, calls, & texting. Schedule, join, and host meetings anywhere on any device with Zoom. Zoom Phone is your University phone for calling and texting.

Outlook (MavMAIL) and Microsoft Teams

Access your University email in Outlook. Send emails, schedule meetings, and more. Use Microsoft Teams to chat instantly, store and share files, meet, and collaborate.

The Fountain

Stay in the loop on employee news, info, and events! Click The Fountain icon on your University computer, or download the Microsoft SharePoint mobile app.

StarAlert and Gold Folder

Sign up for emergency text and email notifications through StarAlert. Click the Gold Folder icon on your University computer to open the digital 911 guide with emergency preparedness resources.

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 employees with a common name or who also have a student account 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 for employees. Your university computer will automatically connect to eduroam, no setup needed. We recommend also connecting your personal devices. View eduroam connection instructions 

Microsoft 365 Licensing

Do I have to purchase a Microsoft 365 license?

No. All employees and 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.

Still Need Help?

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

Details

Details

Article ID: 1129
Created
Mon 8/12/24 7:21 PM
Modified
Mon 6/16/25 12:42 PM