Information Technology FAQ

What is an Access Account and how do I get one?

Answer: Your Penn State Access Account allows you to access technology resources like computers, library resources and the Penn State network. You will need to have an Access Account to use the computers on campus, to check grades, register for classes, or check books out of the library. Please go to https://security.psu.edu/about-ois/identity-access/ for more information.

How do I change my password?

Answer: You should change your password as soon as you receive your account. Go to the website: https://www.work.psu.edu/

I have another email address (e.g., Gmail). Can I forward my Penn State email to that account?

Answer: You can change your forwarding address at the websitehttps://www.work.psu.edu/ by selecting that option from the sidebar on the right side of the web page. Keep in mind that some of your instructors may require that you use your Penn State email address (and not your other email address) when submitting assignments. While you can forward your email, it is strongly recommended that you keep your Penn State email separate from other email accounts by using Office 365 and Outlook applications (see checking your Penn State email below).

My Access Account does not work. What should I do?

Answer: Please see or reach out to the IT Support Center Staff in Crawford 003 and they will be able to assist you with gaining access.

How can I check my Penn State email?

Answer: You can access your email from the web by accessing the website, https://office365.psu.edu/

Can I install my own programs on the machines in the Computer Lab?

Answer: No. Due to copyright and licensing restrictions, students may not download and install programs in the computer lab.

How can I save my work I do in the computer lab?

Answer: You can save your work to a USB removable drive, your U: drive or PASS space, or on OneDrive at http://office365.psu.edu/

See the IT Support Center Staff to investigate the best option for you.

How can I get a copy of my schedule, grades, or transcript? Can I pay my bill online?

Answer: You can access this information on line using http://lionpath.psu.edu/ . You can access LionPath from any computer in the computer lab, personal laptop/desktop, or mobile devices via the Penn State Go application.

I have my own laptop. Can I use it on campus?

Answer: Yes. Students with laptops with wireless network cards can access the Penn State wireless network on campus. You will need to install the Penn State Wireless software to gain access to the network. Assistance with setting up your computer to use the wireless network is available at the IT Support Center in Crawford 003 or at the web site http://wireless.psu.edu/

I heard that I receive an iPad, what are the guidelines?

Answer: All students at Greater Allegheny now receive and iPad and Logitech Crayon Stylus during their enrollment at our campus. Students who remain enrolled at Greater Allegheny for all four years are eligible to keep their devices upon graduation. Students who transfer to/from Greater Allegheny, withdraw, etc. are required to return their devices or are given the option to purchase them at a discounted price.

New students should receive an email in regards to completing the preliminary iPad pickup requirements. If you do not, please reach out to the IT Support Center via email at [email protected]

I heard that we could get free software. Where do I go for my free software?

Answer: Free software and applications for all Penn State students can be found at http://softwarerequest.psu.edu/

Can I buy software through Penn State and get a better price?

Answer: Penn State operates its own store that offers student pricing on software. You can access the software store online at http://softwarerequest.psu.edu/

WHERE CAN I GET HELP FOR QUESTIONS THAT AREN'T COVERED IN THIS FAQ?

Penn State Greater Allegheny
Information Technology Support Center

Stephen Sherwin
Director, Information Technology
412-675-9139
 
Ryan Snyder
Information Technology Specialist
412-675-9441
 
Adam Jacko
Information Technology Specialist
412-675-9138
 
Help Desk
IT Department
412-675-9498

Feel free to stop by Crawford 003 if you have any additional questions related to technology at Penn State Greater Allegheny. Our hours are Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm. We are also available other times by appointment. To schedule an appointment, please email the IT Support Center at [email protected]