ULM Computer Tips

General Computing Tips

NOTE: All computing tips on this page pertain to specific issues and/or computing usage at ULM. For specific information on how to use a specific software or software function, please refer to the user's manual, usually found online or by clicking "HELP" at the top of the software program's tool bar. You may also call the Help Desk at extension 3333.

To go directly to PC or Mac tips, click the appropriate icon.

The Windows and Apple logos are registered trademarks of MicroSoft Inc., and Apple Inc., respectively

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

I just got a new PC. I used to use Netscape for my e-mail. Why do I have to use Microsoft Outlook for my e-mail?

The main reason that Microsoft Outlook is used for e-mail is that it provides a standard PC platform for e-mail across campus. Outlook offers several advantages. Outlook has calender and task features that can quickly and efficiently organize your daily tasks. In addition to these features, the University can forward calender information via Outlook to faculty and staff. Also, Netscape is no longer developing and supporting the Netscape browser.

Wait. I have a Mac. What do I do?

Currently, Mac users should use the University Webmail program. The advantage to Webmail is that is accessible from any web browser in the world. Webmail is available for all PC and Mac users that have an e-mail account with the University.

I have some of my own software at home I'd like to put on my computer. Am I allowed to do that?

The University discourages installing any personal software on your ULM computer. If you have the need to use a particular software for academic or work-related purposes, please discuss the need with your department head and the University Computing Center (UCC). The UCC, via state contracts, has software licenses for many popular software programs. These licenses are available for a nominal charge to the department.

I'd like to have WeatherBug and AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) on my computer. Can I download these from the Internet?

Programs such as WeatherBug and AIM are actually known as "spyware" programs. While they may seem to perform basic functions, in reality these programs track your Internet browsing habits, resulting in pop-up ads and spam. If left unchecked, these spyware programs can hinder your productivity by slowing your computer down. While spyware programs are a fact of life in today's Internet world, a good defense is to not download such programs.

Do I have to have a password to login to my computer? It's a hassle to type it in every time.

Passwords are the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your computer. It is extremely important to keep computers password protected. Think of it this way. Your computer is no different than your house, car, office, filing cabinet, purse, or wallet. You wouldn't let just anybody have access to them, would you? Confidential information must be kept confidential. While password logins may seem a hassle, it is the responsibility of the University to protect the confidentiality of records, research, tests, course materials, or any other information associated with the University.

OK, so I must have a password. Now what?

All new PC's and Macs have password protection configured when the machine is set-up. It is encouraged that you make up a password that is easy to remember, but not easy for others to figure out. Naming your password after your dog is easy to remember, but can be easily guessed. The more characters in a password, the harder it is for others to figure out. A combination of letters, numbers, and characters that are 8 to 12 characters long offer the best protection. For example, a password such as 2004&ULM is much harder to decipher than FIDO.

Never give out your password. The only exception would be to a member of the UCC in the course of resolving problems or issues on your computer.

My computer is not working right. What should I do?

The most important thing you can do if your computer is not working like it should is to try and observe what is or is not happening. For example, if an error message comes on the screen, try to write the error message down, if possible. Next, based on your computer knowledge, see if you can determine the problem via the HELP menu at the top of the toolbar. If basic troubleshooting doesn't help, please feel free to call the Help Desk at extension 3333. The more information you can provide, the better the chances that your problem can be resolved quickly. The important point to remember is to call. The UCC staff is here to provide technical support for all your computing needs.

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PC/Windows Help

What's the little blue icon at the lower right of my screen do?

The little blue icon represents TrendMicro anti-virus software, provided by the University. There is no interaction required on your part. Once installed, it continually monitors your computer to keep you protected.

I don't have a little blue icon in the lower right of my screen. Am I protected?

NO! If your PC is a University computer, then you need to download TrendMicro anti-virus software immediately! This includes all University desktop and laptop computers. Bear in mind that TrendMicro can only be downloaded and installed if you are connected to the University network. If you are unsure how to download and install the TrendMicro software, please call the Help Desk at extension 3333.

If you are using your own personal laptop computer, you currently cannot install TrendMicro on your PC. Personal laptops that contain viruses and are connected to the University network can be detected and you may lose University network access privledges.

Occasionally I get a message that tells me I need to install an update from Microsoft? Should I?

All new PC's installed on campus are configured to accept any new automatic updates from Microsoft's Automatic Update service. It is safe to click the "install" button on the message screen. You may have to wait for a minute or two while the update installs. Occasionally, you may have to restart (reboot) your PC. If you are busy and do not wish to install the update immediately, then click the "Later" button, and Microsoft Update will remind you later.

My new flat screen is great, but the type looks a bit fuzzy. What can I do?

Microsoft has developed ClearType®, specifically designed to work with flat screen LCD monitors. ClearType will make a marked difference in how type looks on your new flatscreen. However, ClearType is not selected by default. To activate ClearType, right click your mouse on any open area of the desktop. Select Properties • Appearance • Effects. Ensure the box for "Use the following method to smooth edges of screen fonts:" is checked. Select ClearType from the drop-down box. Click OK twice and you're set!

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Mac Help

Occasionally my Mac asks me to put in my password to check for a Virex update. What's going on?

Macs on the ULM campus use an anti-virus software called Virex. Virex is configured to check for updates every time the Mac is booted. Some newer Macs, especially those running the latest Mac operating system, OS X , may require your password to check for updates. It is OK to enter the password so the Virex update can be completed. Macs running OS 8.x thru 9.x are configured to check for the updates without the password. Click here for more information about Virex.

Some of my programs aren't launching correctly, or I've experienced problems with some menu commands not working, etc. Any solutions?

OS X, with its Unix underpinnings, uses 'permissions' to control which user has access to all files and folders on the Mac. For example, the System folder permissions are set to be accessable only by the 'root' account; essentially the Mac is the 'owner' of the System folder. Thus, even a user with administrator permissions cannot modify the System folder/files directly. The inability of users to modify the System folder is one reason OS X is so stable. But installing numerous programs and updates tends to corrupt the permissions. Programs become glitchy, and other mysterious things may start to happen.

OS X offers a "permission repair" function within the Disk Utility. Try running this utility and see if some weirdness on your Mac goes away. Even hardcore Mac mavens run this utility anytime they install new software or install upgrades/updates for existing software. Here's how to run the "permission repair":

    1).    Double-click your hard drive icon to open the window.

    2).    Browse to the Disk Utility: Applications --> Utilities --> Disk Utility.

    3).    Double-click the Disk Utility icon to launch the Disk Utility application.

    4).    Select the hard drive icon on the left side of the Disk Utility window.

    5).    Click the "Repair Disk Permissions" button. The utility will run and can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of your hard drive.

    6).    At the end of the operation a message will appear: "Permissions repair complete".

    7).    Log out and Restart (or Shut Down) your machine, and more than likely your glitches and gremlins will be gone the next time you login!

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