IT information for new staff

Your computer accounts

All Monash staff receive an Authcate computer account to access Monash IT services and facilities.

Your Authcate account is your main account at Monash, providing access to all Monash online resources, for example:

• Your Monash email
• Shared network drives
• Wireless services
• Library online resources
• Staff-only and HR websites, work systems and business tools

An initial password will be created for your computer account. For security purposes, this password must be changed within 12 hours. You should also remember to change your passwords regularly (every 3 months is a good measure). See choosing a strong password.

Once you start using your account, set yourself a Personal Identification Word (PIW). Your PIW will enable you to reset your own password online if you forget it, no need to phone or wait around for help!

You can also request a specific system account (e.g.: Unix or web editing accounts) through Service Desk Online once your Authcate account is set up, should this be required for your work.

Software at Monash

The main set of software used and supported across the university is known as the Standard Operating Environment (SOE). The software catalogue includes information on licensing and software distribution.

Using email and the internet

All university staff have access to their Monash email. Your email can be accessed via your my.monash portal (click on the "Email" tab) anywhere via an internet connection.

All staff should have access the internet on campus, and can set up connections for access off-site. Browsing websites external to Monash will require you to log in (once per new session) with your Authcate details.

Staying in touch

A range of other IT and communication services for staff is available including:

• Voicemail
• Electronic calendaring, chat, file sharing, and team spaces
• Audio and videoconferencing
• Wireless access
• Support for mobile devices

Services for academics

Academic staff can request the creation of an email list of students within a particular subject. These are not created automatically but must be requested via Service Desk online with "Production Facilities: Request for subject email list creation" as the heading. Remember to include the subject code(s) and your staff number in the body of the message.

Some subjects may require students to use a UNIX or Linux environment. Academics who wish to make this available to students for their subject(s) can make a request.

IT training

Training in the use of IT services and applications is available from many providers at Monash. Courses and training material are available for Microsoft Office applications, specialist technical training and online tutorials and guides. See IT training for staff.

Help and support

You can contact the Service Desk in person, over the phone or via email for assistance with computer related problems.