Guide: Getting started with tech for employees
Technology information and resources for all UC Santa Cruz employees, including faculty, instructors and researchers.
In this guide
Looking for tech help?
Get support from ITS when you and where you need it, from searching the Knowledge Base to working with support experts.
Getting started
1. Get your laptop ready
Use these guides to understand computer and technology options and work with your unit’s IT support team or manager to find the right fit for your role.
2. Know your CruzID and password
Your CruzID (or username), along with a strong password, is what you will use to log in securely to most campus services.
- CruzID: Your CruzID will be a constant throughout your time on campus, and is also part of your UCSC email address, such as bslug@ucsc.edu, where the “bslug” is the CruzID. Learn about your CruzID
- Passwords: Manage your passwords in the CruzID Manager and learn more about how to protect your passwords.
3. Be safe and secure
Make sure your devices and university data are protected by setting up required security tools.
- Guide: Cybersecurity requirements for employees
- Set up multi-factor authentication
- Backup important information via an external hard drive, or by using Windows Backup and Restore or MacOS Time Machine
- The Campus Virtual Private Network (VPN) and Verified Access are required to securely access certain UC Santa Cruz systems and servers. Guide: Verified Access
4. Review your personal preferences
Campus Directory and Lived Name
You can update your lived name and other data to what you wish to be used and displayed in campus systems, including requesting a different email alias. Guide: Manage Your Name and Identity Data
Emergency Contact Information
Verify that your emergency contact information is up-to-date. Update your Emergency Contact Information
Campus Notification Preferences
Manage how you receive important campus notifications. Update your Campus Notification Preferences
5. Frequently used campus technology
Explore some of the technology faculty and staff use most frequently at UC Santa Cruz.
6. Get support
Whether you need help with your accounts, getting online, software, or technical support, Information Technology Services (ITS) is your first point of contact for most IT support needs.
- Explore all of the IT services available to you
- Browse the ITS Knowledge Base for 24/7 access to many commonly asked questions
- Submit a support request online or call us at 831-459-4357
- Check the status of IT services for known outages and workarounds
- Report a Security Incident if you suspect phishing or other cybersecurity issues
- Browse IT guides for help with navigating more complex IT needs