Key IT information, updates and resources to know for fall 2021

McMaster will soon welcome the fall 2021 semester. More faculty members, staff and students will be on campus after almost 18 months of mainly learning and working remotely.

It is exciting to think of the prospect of coming back to McMaster! Once again, this semester will look a bit different. It is important the McMaster community is aware of the many changes, guidelines and resources available as we navigate a return to campus and the start of a new semester.

Want to maximize your IT experience this fall? Here’s what to know

For all McMaster students, staff and faculty members:

Campus Wi-Fi

For those returning to campus, you will need to forget McMaster’s Wi-Fi network on all your devices when you arrive. After, reconnect to “Mac-WiFi” with your MacID and password just like normal.

Additionally, University Technology Services (UTS) and Facility Services have enhanced wireless internet access around campus, particularly outdoor spaces to promote and support distanced collaboration.

Cyber security

When using your devices, ensure you have set up multi-factor authentication to protect and maintain your personal online security. This is also a period of heightened cyber attack attempts. Learn more about cyber security concerns, such as phishing, by taking the Avenue to Learn phishing course and access more security resources.

Microsoft 365 and communities of practice

The McMaster 365 Hub is the one-stop shop for all things Microsoft 365 for the McMaster community. From beginner and how-to guides, updates and training sessions, the Hub has it all!

The Discover Microsoft 365 and Zoom page has tons of tips to make the most of online and virtual teaching and learning. Discover new ways to enhance the learning experience in online spaces, communicate and engage with students virtually or to learn other creative use cases for Microsoft and Zoom apps. Check out the communities of practice too!

UTS Client Support for fall 2021

UTS Client Support Services will continue to support the university remotely into the Fall 2021 semester. The UTS Live Chat feature is the quickest and easiest way to access the IT help you need. Please note, faculty or department IT may operate differently.

For students only:

Tech tips

As students prepare for the fall term, it is important they have access to the proper tech resources available to them. Check out the top tech tips for McMaster students for a smooth transition into another school term.

Students can also check out the Technology Resources page, a curated and extensive catalogue on all things tech for this semester.

For second-year students and above:

Student email and calendaring migration

A reminder for all second-year students and above that your student emails are no longer in Gmail. Access emails through your Outlook accounts and check for the “focused inbox.” Check out the service page for more information regarding student email.

For staff and faculty members only:

Tech readiness and Back to Mac

Check out the tech readiness checklist for staff and faculty for extra support and resources for Back to Mac efforts.

McMaster IT has been working hard to provide a seamless, connected and transformative experience both on-campus and remotely, and we look forward to supporting the McMaster community this coming semester.