View current IT News updates here.
Blackboard Ultra Conversion
- All Fall 2024 courses will be loaded in Ultra format.
- Contact the Office of Cyberlearning at IDDC@ysu.edu for support in the transition.
New Penguin Portal
A new customizable campus portal was implemented in March, 2024. This new design features mobile friendly cards and real-time data such as academic schedules, advisor contact information, and more! Add cards for your preferred views.
Digital Transformation at YSU
Print Management Assessment
As part of the University's Digital Transformation, ITS is identifying methods to conserve resources and deliver efficiency using technology. Printing /copying and page count management is one of our target areas to explore. See our knowledge base article Discover Alternatives to Printing/Copying.
Digital Transformation at YSU - Fall 2022
YSU is utilizing innovative technologies to enhance productivity, security, and sustainability. Learn about Teams (departments) and OneDrive (individuals) for data storage; enroll in multifactor authentication for more secure computing; and follow the University's Storage of Electronic Data Policy and Acceptable Use policies. Register for training to learn more.
Classroom of the Future 2.0 - Cisco Webex Classrooms - Project Complete - Summer 2022
- Working with our primary technology partners (Cisco, Microsoft, & Logicalis) IT upgraded 100 classrooms spaces with Webex technology.
- Training is available in the Webex Classroom Series to learn to connect to the physical space or Blackboard and engage students.
- This project was funded by HEERF to outfit more of our teaching spaces to meet traditional, virtual, and hybrid modalities.
Classroom Technology Hotline (330)941-1596
A classroom emergency hotline has been implemented using a separate direct phone line to the IT Service Desk. This will allow those who are experiencing a technology issue while in a classroom teaching or preparing to teach to call and go straight through to someone at the IT Service Desk.
Technology Mobilization of Campus Initiative
- One YSU Laptop (Windows/Apple) supported and refreshed per each full-time employee (faculty/staff)
- Grant devices separate, should be fully-funded by grant
- Devices past YSU support date must be removed from use (typically, older than 5 yrs).
- Reduce number of desktops, instead using laptops
- Every full-time faculty member should have received a new laptop computer (Dell/Apple; their choosing) by the start of fall.
- Current focus is to distribute laptops to full-time staff members.
Penguin Plug-in Loaner Laptop Program - 2019
- Laptops “free” for First Year students for the Academic Year 21-22; $50/semester thereafter
- Mobile Hotspots (transitioning from Verizon to T-Mobile); Free AY21-22
IT Service Desk Moved to Kilcawley Center!
- The IT Service Desk has relocated from the 4th floor of Maag Library to the 1st floor of Kilcawley Center in the 1055 Office Suite. It is next to the lounge behind Jamba Juice.
- Hours of walk up service are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm and 24 hour phone service. If you need any assistance please call, 330-941-1595, stop by, or put in a ticket using our technology support portal.
- Will manage Penguin Plug-In Laptop Loaner Program in new location
- Plan to open Computer Retail Center (Kiosk ordering for Dell & Apple computers)
Classrooms with Multimedia Being Upgraded with Enhancements (More Info Here) ~ Project complete
- ITS completed updating over 200 classrooms to the Airtame standard classroom
- New components include: Webcams, Laser projectors, & Airtame wireless connectivity
- One-page summary of technical capabilities in classroom has been created and is available as KB
- Desktop knowledge base articles via shortcuts will be put on the Instructor Station PC
- Contact IT Service Desk for assistance
- Training rolled out prior to start of fall semester
- Training sessions provided when faculty returned in late-August
- Presented to Academic Senate
Blackboard
- Biweekly working sessions between YSU ITS, Cyberlearning and Bb to address any Ultra issues and workarounds
- Ultra Roadmap forthcoming
Wi-Fi Enhancement & NEW YSU Guest Wi-Fi ~ Project completed
The wireless network across campus has been fully evaluated, old hardware has been replaced and remediation is underway to add new hardware to improve wireless availability. A guest network (YSU_Guest) has been created to allow guests such as parents and perspective students visiting campus to have wireless access. Wireless availability has been added to some outdoor areas such as the fountain and select parking lots.
Conversions to Bring Your Own Device Labs
About 50 labs that had been physical computer labs have been converted to bring your own device (byod) setups. Over time as computer labs become outdated, we will be transition most to a similar setup. In addition to replacing desktop with laptops for faculty and staff, we will provide opportunities for students to have access to laptops in an effort to make our campus more versatile and enhance the mobility of technology.
Enhanced Print Management
New Xerox printers have been installed across campus and are centrally managed through the YSU network connection. Wireless printing is now available across campus. Local desktop printers are no longer supported on campus. This means that IT will no longer install, repair or move local printers such as HP OfficeJet and HP Deskjet printers. Most on campus printing need can be met by using a network printer. We strongly encourage all to look for ways to reduce printing and share information through digital means, whenever possible. More information on how to print.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) creates an additional level of security and protection of your YSU account. It verifies your identity by requiring multiple methods of verifying it is you logging into your account. For example, a verification code sent to your cell phone by text or an alternate email address. This program has begun to roll out and we would like all those with YSU accounts to enroll in MFA. Click here for more information on how to enroll.