Getting Started for Students

Welcome, or welcome back, to CUMC. Student computing at the Medical Center involves a wide variety of resources. Please use this page as a guide to all of the technical support and services available.

Even if you're a returning student, be sure to read the Getting Started and Technical Support information below since some procedures have changed.

Useful Links for Students

Getting Started

Before arriving on campus there are some steps you must take to insure a smooth start:

1. Activate your UNI
   Your University Network I.D. is
   • The beginning of your Columbia email address (uni@columbia.edu).
   • Your logon for Student Services Online, Courseworks, Library E-Resources, and many other sites.
   • Allows you to register your computer for the wired network, and acts as a logon for wireless.
   • Allows you to download licensed software and use our online forms to request services.
   For more detailed information on activating and using email, please see our Email and UNI Accounts page.
   To find your UNI and activate it by choosing a password, please go to:
   http://uni.columbia.edu.

Remember to always keep your UNI password secret - you are responsible for your account. If you share your password with anyone, your account may be suspended or permanently invalidated.

2. Prepare your computer
   Any computer connecting to the CUMC network must:
   • Have all of its current Operating System updates.
   • Be virus-free, and have working antivirus and antispyware programs.
     The User's Guide to Safer Computing at Columbia can assist you with these steps, including installing the Columbia licensed Symantec Endpoint program (and be sure to check our Software Downloads page for a list of all licensed programs including Microsoft Office).
   • Be set up to connect to the Wired and/or Wireless networks.
     
     • Wired (Residential) network: before arriving you may submit the Bradford Campus Manager form using the computer you will be connecting to the campus wired network. It requires that a small, non-permanent program be downloaded and run a brief scan your computer to be sure it meets basic CUMC security rules. More information can be found at the How Does Bradford Campus Manager Work page.
     • Wireless is only available at certain locations on campus, and requires special configuration for wireless. Linux systems are not supported for the secured wireless networks.
3. Learn about policies, technical support and resources at CUMC
   • Read the Safe Computing at CUMC (PDF file ) handout to make sure you understand and have implemented required computer, account and network use policies and procedures.
   • For information and answers about available resources and support, look at the information in the Useful Links for Students and Student FAQ sections.
   • The CUMC IT Service Desk provides first level technical support for CUMC students, faculty and staff seven days a week. See the Student FAQs for detailed information on support for students.

• Call extension 5-Help (212-305-4357), option 5
• Email 5help@columbia.edu
• Come to the walk in desk on the 2nd Floor of the Hammer building
• Submit our Online Help Form

• Monday through Friday - 8am* to 7:30pm
• Saturday - 9am to 5pm
• Sunday - 10am to 6pm