Technology Time-Saving Tips

Northwestern IT tools, resources, and support ensure it is safe and convenient for you to access and utilize IT services. We are here to make sure you have what you need, including self-service support options offering real-time solutions and time-saving technology tips. Read on to learn more about some of our most popular tips.

You are in control of resetting your NetID password.
Whether it is time for an annual reset, you are proactively taking a security measure, or you have forgotten it after time away, you can reset your NetID password on your own. Follow these simple steps available in the Northwestern IT Knowledge Base.

There is an app for Multi-factor Authentication.
Duo Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) is needed to access Microsoft 365 applications and many other University systems. To ensure you can always authenticate into Northwestern’s systems, download and use the Duo app on your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Duo Push via the app is the fastest and most convenient way to authenticate. Learn more about MFA. 

You can protect yourself and the Northwestern community against phishing.
Phishing is a serious threat to the community, but you have access to a powerful defense against it—knowledge. You can prepare yourself with information on spotting fraudulent emails and familiarize yourself with specific attempts identified in our environment. By sharing this important information with others and knowing how to report phishing emails you receive, you can keep Northwestern cyber safe.

You can stay in the know on the status of University IT services.
If you are having trouble logging in to a Northwestern system, or if the system is not performing as expected, there are a few items to consider before contacting the Northwestern IT Service Desk:

•  Scheduled maintenance, service alert, and service interruption notices are posted 24 hours a day and seven days a week on the Status of University IT Services web page. You can also sign up to receive email notifications and updates about scheduled maintenance and unexpected service outages.
• Visit the Northwestern IT Knowledge Base, a searchable go-to resource for a wealth of self-service information on frequently asked technology questions and troubleshooting solutions.
• Check to see if your Caps Lock is on. We know it may sound funny, but it is a common solution. Remember, NetID passwords are case-sensitive.
• Clearing your browser cache can sometimes help resolve log-in errors that occur, especially when trying to access a University service for the first time after an upgrade.

Your Northwestern web presence is within reach using NUSites.
Northwestern students, faculty, and staff can easily build and manage their academic or research websites and blogs—free of charge—using Northwestern WordPress templates. Visit sites.northwestern.edu to get started!

Always "show and tell" when reporting a service issue to the Northwestern IT Service Desk.
Northwestern IT staff members are available to provide support and solutions for your technology needs Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can contact the IT Service Desk at consultant@northwestern.edu. When submitting a support request, please send a detailed description of the issue, along with any screenshots that depict the issue you are experiencing.