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IT News

Author: Christine Doucette

Thanksgiving break schedule for the IT Service Desk

Posted on by Christine Doucette

The IT Service Desk will have reduced hours during Thanksgiving break.

On Sunday, Nov. 24, remote services, including phone support, live chat, and service tickets, will be available from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

From Monday, Nov. 25, to Wednesday, Nov. 27, all services including walk-in, phone, live chat, and service tickets will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The IT Service Desk will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 through Friday, Nov.29.

On Saturday, Nov. 30, remote services will be available, including phone support, live chat, and service tickets, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Regular hours for the IT Service Desk will resume on Sunday, Dec. 1.

You can contact the IT Service Desk at 800-865-6143 or 785-532-7722 or via Live Chat. For face-to-face service, visit the IT Service Desk on the second floor of Hale Library.

Continue reading “Thanksgiving break schedule for the IT Service Desk” →

Upgrade to the latest version of Zoom by Nov. 2

Posted on by Christine Doucette

On Nov. 2, Zoom will require all users to upgrade to version 5.17.5 for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS and Windows. You can check your Zoom version in the desktop and mobile app and upgrade to the latest version as soon as possible.

Anyone trying to sign in or join a meeting/webinar using a version below 5.17.5 on or after Nov. 2 will be prompted to update Zoom to the current minimum version. If you are unable to update immediately, you can join through the web as an alternative.

Need help? Contact the IT Service Desk at 800-865-6143 or 785-532-7722 or via Live Chat. You can also visit the IT Service Desk on the second floor of Hale Library for in-person help.

Zoom has implemented a Software Quarterly Lifecycle Policy which requires a new minimum version of the software every three months. This policy ensures that all users have the necessary privacy and security updates and access to the latest features.

How’s your Cyber hygiene?

Posted on by Christine Doucette

Cyber hygiene is the practice and steps K-Staters can follow to improve our online security and maintain the health of our IT systems.

Cyber hygiene is often compared to personal hygiene. Just as you follow daily personal hygiene practices to stay healthy, adopting a daily cyber hygiene routine is crucial for safeguarding the health of K-State’s network and ensuring the safety and security of our data. By making these habits a part of your daily routine, they will become second nature.

Be aware of phishing scams. Cybercriminals use phishing scams to try to trick you into sharing personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, social security numbers and bank account numbers, by sending you fraudulent emails or directing you to a fake website. Learn what a phishing scam looks like.  If you suspect that you have been compromised…” use something like “If you suspect you’ve been targeted or fallen victim to a phishing scam, report the incident immediately to abuse@ksu.edu.

Create strong passwords. Complex passwords can prevent many malicious activities and protect K-State’s network. Consider using passphrases or a reputable password manager to create and store complex passwords securely. Learn about K-State’s eID password requirements. Continue reading “How’s your Cyber hygiene?” →

FERPA training emails sent by mistake

Posted on by Christine Doucette

On Monday, Oct. 21, some K-State students, faculty and staff were mistakenly sent an email about Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) training. FERPA training is mandatory for individuals who handle student data as part of their job responsibilities. If you are not required to undergo this training, please disregard the email.

If you are mandated to take FERPA training, K-State will send a follow-up email containing instructions on how to access the training. If you do not receive a follow-up training email, no further action is needed on your part.

Thank you for your understanding. If you have questions, contact the IT Service Desk.

Upgrade now to Windows 11

Posted on by Christine Doucette

Have you upgraded to Windows 11? Last week, K-State released the Windows 11 23H2 feature update to devices using the central campus Windows software update server. Devices not compatible with Windows 11 will receive a notification with a list of reasons the compatibility check failed. Please contact your department’s IT director or the IT Service Desk if you have any questions about the update. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025.

Windows 11 was designed with multiple layers of security to help keep your apps, information and identity secure. New features in Windows 11 include Snap Assist for better organization and Copilot, an AI-powered assistant. Learn more about the new features in Windows 11.

Tips for protecting your devices and personal information

Posted on by Christine Doucette

You use devices like laptops, smartphones, tablets and watches to store sensitive information like your credit card. Protecting and securing that information is important to safeguarding your identity and data.

Here are a few things you can easily do to protect your devices.

Install antivirus software

Antivirus software is your first line of defense. It detects, blocks, and removes viruses and warns about dangerous websites and links.

Use strong passphrases/password manager

Using long, complex and unique passwords is a good way to prevent your account from being hacked. An easy way to keep track of and remember your passwords is by using a password manager. Continue reading “Tips for protecting your devices and personal information” →

Software available for students, faculty and staff

Posted on by Christine Doucette

K-State provides free and for-purchase software products to students, faculty and staff. The goal is to make resources available to the K-State community to provide the necessary tools to reach academic, research and work goals.

Microsoft 365 is a popular resource at K-State. This free office collaboration suite includes tools such as email, calendar, applications and file storage space. You can access the suite from your desktop, web browser or phone. For more information, view the Microsoft 365 webpage. Continue reading “Software available for students, faculty and staff” →

Manhattan campus computer labs

Posted on by Christine Doucette

Do you need to use a computer? There are many options available at the computing labs across K-State’s Manhattan campus:

  • Cardwell Hall Math/Physics Library — Room 105
  • College of Business Admin. — Rooms: 1052, 1053, 3112, 3114 and 3121
  • Hale Library — Located on the first, second, third and fourth floors
  • K-State Student Union — First floor
  • Paul Weigel Library of AP Design — Room 1128, Regnier Hall
  • Sunderland Foundation Innovation Lab — First floor, Hale Library

Continue reading “Manhattan campus computer labs” →