Reed College
Reed College

Help Desk

Information Technology

Faculty FAQ

What is this "Kerberos" thing, anyway? Prompted to use Kerberos to log in to IRIS? Don't worry! You already have a Kerberos Username and Password. They are the same as the ones you use to log in to Reed's email and public computers. Check out our Kerberos Help page. If you have further questions, contact CUS via email or at x7525 and we will help you out!

How do I request a Course Folder, Email List, Blog, Moodle, or a Panopto media library (Reed's media server)?

We have two easy ways to get in touch with your classes (email autolists and Moodle groups), plus Course Folders for distributing class materials sans paper. For more information, check out our mailing lists overview page or view the Moodle.

Request a...

How do I print from my computer?

We have pages dealing with various aspects of printing. Check out:

If you need further help, or just feel better about asking a real live person, feel free to drop by the ETC Help Desk, call x7525, or email cus@reed.edu.

Why can't I log into IRIS?

If you are sure you are typing in the correct username and password and it still is not working, drop by, call us at x7525 or email CUS at cus@reed.edu and we will get you up and running with IRIS.


Password Help

I forgot my password. What do I do?

Just go to our online password reset tool. You'll be guided through the security questions you previously set up, and then you'll be asked to set a new password.

If you haven't previously set up security questions using our online tool, you'll need to grab your photo ID and come by the Computer User Services help desk in the ETC. We can help you reset your password during regular hours (M-F, 8:30-5).

I know my password, but I want to change it.

Open a web browser and go to our online password reset tool. You'll be prompted for your username and password first. If you haven't done so yet, you'll be asked to set up some security questions.  These questions will let you automatically reset your password, in case you ever forget it in the future.  Once you have security questions in place, follow the prompts to reset your password.

If you run into trouble along the way, contact the Help Desk at x7525 or at cus@reed.edu.

How can I prevent disasters likes data loss?

Unfortunately, in the land of computers, nothing is ever guaranteed. Even if you take expert care of your machine, you will likely run into problems someday. Luckily, you can take steps to make sure a hard drive malfunction or something of similar magnitude is not the end of the world:

  • Backup, backup, backup your data. We cannot stress this enough! CUS can provide you with an external hard drive and full access to a program called SuperDuper, which can make an exact copy of your computer's contents every night; please inquire with CUS. Keep copies of your important documents and data in multiple locations: the home server, email, USB thumbdrive, external hard drive, CDs/DVDs, etc. Also see our backup tips.
  • Keep your computer safe from viruses and spyware. Be wary of opening email attachments and downloading other items from the Internet even if you know and trust the source. For detailed information, see our Protecting Your Computer from Attack page.
  • Do not leave your computer unattended. Laptops have been stolen from the Library and other public areas on campus. Use a lock (also provided by CUS) if you need to be away from your computer for a short period. Please don't rely on a cable lock overnight; if not taking it home, put your laptop in a locked cabinet or drawer when you leave for the day. For more information, also see our Protection from Theft page.

For more information, please refer to our safe computing section. And, as always, if you have specific questions or encounter a disaster, never hesitate us to contact us by coming to the Help Desk, calling x7525, or emailing cus@reed.edu. Good luck!

How can I access resources like JSTOR and PubMed from off campus?

You can access these resources when you're off campus by using our proxy. We provide detailed directions for using the proxy. If you encounter difficulties, whether during setup, use, or once you are back on campus, please email us, call x7525, or stop by the Help Desk.

How do I use my office telephone?

The first place to look is our online Telephone & Voicemail Guide. If you need further support or have a question about your phone, email telecomrequest@reed.edu.

I'm having trouble registering my computer on the wireless or wired network

Please contact CUS (x7525) and we can help. We may ask for the MAC address of your ethernet or wireless card.

How do I send an enormous file to my colleague across the country (or vice versa)?

File Robot can be used to send files to colleagues or for them to send it to you. Click here to learn how to use it.

How do I enable cookies on my web browser?

Cookies can be enabled or disabled in the preferences/settings of the web browser. Click here for our step-by-step instructions for Firefox, Safari, and Google Chrome.

How do I secure my laptop or other computer hardware during campus breaks?

Check out our page of tips for computer security for information about securing your hardware over short-term and long-term breaks.