Welcome to the Information Technology website.

IT FAQs

  • College Transcripts

  • Q: How can I view my college transcripts?
    A: For instructions, visit Admissions and Records: Managing your Degree Progress.

  • Computer Labs

  • Q: What computer labs can I use to write or print a paper?
    A: Computer labs are available for reservation during regular University hours. View a list of Computer Labs by College.

  • Gmail

  • Q: I don't know my student Gmail address. Where can I find it?
    A: To obtain your CSUN email address, log in to the myNorthridge Portal and go to the Student Center (SOLAR). Your email address is located under "Personal Information."

    Q: How do I forward my student Gmail account to another a personal email address such as Yahoo or Hotmail?
    A: Log in to Gmail. Go to Settings, select Add a forwarding address next to Forwarding and follow the subsequent steps. For additional instructions, visit Gmail Help: Forwarding mail to another email account automatically.

    Q: Which browsers work with my student Gmail account?
    A: View Google's list of supported web browsers.

    Q: How do I access my student Gmail account from a mobile device?
    A: View Google's list of mobile devices and configuration instructions. Note: You must use your full @my.csun.edu email address when you are prompted for your username.

    Q: How do I access my Gmail account from other email clients using IMAP/POP?
    A: View instructions for IMAP and POP instructions. Read about the differences between IMAP & POP and learn about using Google Apps Sync for Microsoft Outlook. Note: You must use your full "@my.csun.edu"email address when you are prompted for your username.

    Q: What is the storage limit on my student Gmail account?
    A: 7GB.

    Q: Is email that I send from my student Gmail account protected?
    A: Email sent to or from your student Gmail account is unprotected. For this reason, we do not recommend sending/forwarding email which contains confidential or sensitive information.

    Q: What is Google's privacy policy?
    A: View Google's Privacy Policy.

    Q: How can I set up a spam filter?
    A: From Gmail, filtering instructions are located on the menu bar under Settings, Filters, Create a New Filter.

    Q: Can I use ad blocker or script blocker with Gmail?
    A: No. You must not use ad blockers or script blockers, "e.g. Adblock and NoScript" with Gmail. Be sure to disable these features before you log in to Gmail.

    Q: Email that is sent to my student Gmail account is not always delivered. What is wrong?
    A: If you auto-forward your student Gmail account to a personal email address, your personal email address may be invalid. This may be the reason why you are not receiving email. Although you auto-forward your Gmail account to another address, your student Gmail account is your official account with the university which means that the university will use it for official university communications. You are responsible for monitoring your student Gmail account and the information sent by the university.

    Q: Where can I learn more about using Gmail?
    A: Visit Gmail Help. Once you begin using your new account, review "Switching Guide" inside the new email system for more information on Getting Started with Gmail.

    Q: What will happen to my student Gmail account once I graduate from CSUN?
    A: Starting Fall 2009, students who graduate from the university can keep their student Gmail account. If you graduated during the Fall 2009 semester or later, you do not have to join the Alumni Association to maintain your CSUN student Gmail account. Students who graduated prior to Fall 2009, must join the Alumni Association. Once you are a member, contact the Alumni Association to reactivate your CSUN e-mail account

  • Media

  • Q: What types of media services are available to students?
    A: A range of audio and visual (A/V) services are available for students. To learn more, visit Media Services.

    Q: How do I know what type of media equipment is available in my classroom?
    A: View a list of Media Equipment in Auditoriums and Classrooms.

    Q: I am trying to connect my laptop to the projector in my classroom but it is not working. What do I do?
    A: View Troubleshooting Instructions for Laptop Projection Problems.

  • Moodle

  • Q: What is Moodle?
    A: Moodle is the Learning Management System used at CSUN. Moodle is a type of course management software that offers a virtual classroom environment.

    Q: How do I login to Moodle?
    A: To login to Moodle go to http://moodle.csun.edu. On the left side, there is a login to enter a username and password. Your username will be your short User ID, which consists of a couple of letters and numbers. (i.e. abc12345) If you do not know your username, you may find it out by going to the IT Forgot User ID website. Your password will be the same one you use to access the CSUN Portal.

    Q: My class does not appear under "My Courses" list?
    A: If after logging into Moodle your course does not appear under your "My Course" list, it may be for one of the following reasons:
    * The instructor of the course may not be using Moodle. Contact the instructor directly to see if Moodle is being used for the course.

    * The instructor currently has the course hidden from student view. Contact the instructor directly to see when the course will become available.

    * If you have recently enrolled in the course through the CSUN Portal, it may take a couple days for you to be added to the Moodle course. If after a couple days you have still not been added to the course, ask the instructor to manually enroll you in Moodle. Instructors may contact the Faculty Technology Center at (818) 677–3443 if assistance is needed.

    Q: The course I am trying to access asks for an enrollment key. How do I get the enrollment key?
    A: If Moodle asks for enrollment key to enter a course, it means you have not been enrolled in the course in Moodle. If you recently enrolled in the course through the CSUN Portal, it may take a couple days for you to be added to the Moodle course. If after a couple days you have still not been added to the course, ask the instructor to manually enroll you in Moodle. Instructors may contact the Faculty Technology Center at (818) 677–3443 if assistance is needed.

    Q: What browser should I use to access Moodle?
    A: Moodle will work in any modern web browser. Your browser should have both cookies and JavaScript enabled. These are typically enabled by default, but if you think these settings need enabling, check the documentation for your particular browser on how to enable cookies and JavaScript.

    Browsers:

       Firefox 3 (or later)
       Google Chrome 11 (or later)
       MS Internet Explorer 7 (or later)
       Safari 4 (or later)

    Note: In the past, some browsers did not support Moodle’s in-line HTML editor however updates now support the HTML editor in Google Chrome and Safari. Make sure you have the latest version of your browser in order to use the HTML editor.

    Q: Where can I obtain Moodle training?
    A: Visit Moodle Training for Students. Sign in with your CSUN user ID and password or visit Student Moodle Help.

  • myNorthridge Portal

  • Q: How do I access the myNorthridge Portal for the first time?
    A: If you have been admitted to CSUN and have not already accessed the     myNorthridge Portal, you need to activate your account. Locate your CSUN user ID and password on the "Activate CSUN Username and Password" letter sent to you by Admissions and Records. If you follow the account activation process, you will be brought to the Portal.

    Q: When does maintenance take place?
    A: Wednesdays from 8:00pm through midnight and once a month on Sundays from 12:00am through 6:00am. During these times, access may be intermittently unavailable.

    Q: Where can I find how-to guides on using the myNorthridge Portal?
    A: Visit SOLAR Support and go to "Information for Students" on the top left-hand corner of the page.

  • Remote Access & VPN

  • Q: How can I access CSUN's computing resources from an off-campus location?
    A: Most resources such as the myNorthridge Portal, and Gmail can be accessed via an internet browser. Others, such as the UDrive and WebDrive require a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection. The VPN creates a secure connection called a "tunnel" between your computer and the campus network.

    Q: I am repeatedly being prompted for my CSUN User ID and Password when I try to connect. Why is this happening?
    A: Make sure you are using your correct User ID and Password. To verify this information, view the CSUN User ID and Password Instructions. If you continue to have difficulties, contact the IT Help Center.


    Q: When I try to connect to the VPN, I receive the message, Initializing the connection. However, after a while, I am simply back at the connection screen where I get a disconnected message. Why does this happen?

    A: To ensure that you have entered the correct information, go to the VPN connection that you have already created and select Modify. From the configuration screen, ensure that the Host value is set to vpn.csun.edu and that the Group Authentication name and password are set to csun-vpn. If you continue to have difficulties, contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: I receive an error message indicating that the VPN software is Unable to contact the security gateway.
    A: Close the VPN and restart your computer. In most cases, this will resolve the issue; if it does not, contact the IT Help Center.

  • Security

  • Q: How can I protect my CSUN campus account?
    A: The number one way to keep your CSUN account safe is to never give your CSUN password to anyone, including family and friends. Second, when using public computers to connect to campus services such as email or the myNorthridge Portal, always log off the computer before walking away. Finally, never download and install software from unknown/un-trusted sources, and only visit trusted web sites. If you believe that your CSUN password has been compromised, immediately change your password and contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: How do I obtain Antivirus software for my computer?
    A: Symantec Anti-Virus is available for students, faculty, and staff at no additional cost. Visit the CSUN Software Downloads page and sign in with your CSUN user ID and password. You will see Symantec Anti-Virus Corporate Edition available for downloading to a PC or Mac.

    Q: Which software programs help combat spyware?
    A: We recommend installing Spybot–S&D or Lavasoft Ad–Aware.

    Q: What is a STOP security plate? How do I obtain one for my laptop?
    A: For $10.00, a STOP security plate is the most cost–effective, anti–theft and recovery product available. Whether your laptop is lost or stolen, a STOP plate may increase the chances of your laptop being returned to you. For more information, view the STOP Program flyer.

    Q: Will CSUN ever ask me for personal information via email?
    A: No. Any email message asking for personal information such as user IDs, passwords, birthdates, and social security numbers is likely to be a phishing scam. Often, phishing scams will look like they're from banking institutions and other trusted organizations (such as the CSU). If you receive one of these messages, delete it immediately and never respond. Learn more.

  • Software/Hardware Discounts

  • Q: What kind of software/hardware discounts are available to CSUN students?
    A: There are several options available to students for obtaining software and hardware for academic and personal use. View the Student Software & Hardware Purchasing page.

  • SOLAR

  • Q: What is SOLAR?
    A: SOLAR is the name for the administrative applications at CSUN. For students, SOLAR generally refers to the section in the myNorthridge Portal where you can register for classes, view grades, update campus contact information, etc. To learn more about using SOLAR, view Admission and Records: How To Guides for Students.

  • Technology Training

  • Q: Where can I find user guides, tutorials and other resources for software/applications used at CSUN?
    A: Visit the IT Training Guides and Resources page.

  • UDrive & WebDrive

  • Q: What is the UDrive?
    A: The UDrive is a document/file container that provides limited disk space for campus faculty, staff, and students to store coursework, work files, and research documentation, etc. View access instructions (PC and Mac).

    Q: What is the WebDrive?
    A:The WebDrive is CSUN’s environment for hosting web content. View access instructions.

  • User ID & Password

  • Q: How do I find my CSUN User ID and Password?
    A: Admissions and Records assigns each student a CSUN user ID and an initial password and this information is listed on your Admissions Acceptance form. This is what you use to set up and activate your campus account. If you have misplaced your user ID and password, contact the IT Help Center for assistance.

    Q: How do I change my CSUN password?
    A: Visit the CSUN Homepage and select the Forgot Password link under the myNorthridge Portal Login drop-down menu, or go to Forgot My Password. If this does not work, contact the IT Help Center by phone at (818) 677-1400, or visit Room 33 in the Oviatt Library. For security reasons, the Help Center is unable to reset your password via email.

  • Wireless

  • Q: How do I access CSUN wireless?
    A: Connect to CSUN's encrypted wireless network, csun_wpa2. This network will require a one-time login after initial setup and will not require a VPN connection for additional security. Learn more.

    Q: Which devices are compatible with CSUN's encrypted wireless network (csun_wpa2)?
    A: Most Wi-Fi capable devices purchased since the last quarter of 2006 are compatible; however, Gaming devices (e.g. Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox etc.) are not compatible.

    Q: Can I connect to CSUN's open wireless network (csun)?
    A: Yes, but we recommend using csun_wpa2 for a more secure connection, and so that you are not prompted for your user ID and password as you move between network zones. Learn more.

    Q: Which areas on campus have wireless coverage?
    A: View the Wireless Network Access Zones.

    Q: Can I access the wireless network from more than one computer at the same time?
    A: Yes.

  • Class Lists

  • Q: Can my students or I send email to a class list from a non–CSUN email address?
    A: No. Class List(s) can only receive email from CSUN email addresses.

    Q: Can I have an auto–generated list which contains the email addresses of select majors, minors, etc.?
    A: Automated lists are only created for classes. It is possible that lists such as those you are requesting for majors, minors, etc. will be created automatically in the future, however those lists are not available at this time.

    Q: I would like to use the class-list that has been auto-generated for my class. What is the email address?
    A: The email address will include this information in the following order:

    The word class
    The 2 letter abbreviation for semester in which the class is taught. Example: sp for Spring
    The 2 digit year abbreviation. Example: 10 for 2010
    A period .
    The 5 digit ticket number for the class. Example: 12345 (To locate your class ticket number, log in to the myNorthridge Portal and go to the Student Administration pagelet. Select Faculty Center. The class number is listed next to the Course Title.)
    The ending -c@csun.edu

    For example, if your class is taught during the Spring 2010 semester, and the class number is 12345, the email address will be classsp10.12345-c@csun.edu.

    Q: Do I have to use my auto-generated class lists or can I create my own class lists?
    A: Faculty members are not required to use the lists that have been provided. If you prefer to create your own mailing lists, you can use the campus Majordomo List Service.

    Q: Are these class lists the same as the SOLAR email lists located in the myNorthridge Portal?
    A: These new class lists although similar in function to the SOLAR email lists within the Portal, use a different system, and the two are not tied together at this time.

    Q: What happens if students add or drop my course; will they be added to this class list automatically? What happens if I am no longer teaching this course?
    A: The list is updated on a daily basis to reflect the current enrollment of your class; so there is no need for you to maintain the list. If you are no longer teaching the course for which you have received a notification message, do not worry; the class list will automatically be updated with the current professor.

  • Class Rosters

  • Q: How do I view my class rosters?
    A: View the Faculty Center Reference Guide: Class Rosters, Emailing Students, Permission Numbers.

    Q. Why can’t I see my class rosters?
    A. Ask your department administrator to confirm that you are the primary or secondary instructor of the class in the SOC. Also verify that you have an active date from the beginning of the semester or earlier in the Instructor/Advisor Table.

  • Email (Microsoft Exchange)

  • Q: How do I access faculty email?
    A: View Options for Accessing CSUN Email (Webmail, Email Client, Smartphone)

    Q: Even though I’m using Internet Explorer as my browser, I’m still getting the "light" version of Webmail even though the checkbox isn’t marked when I log in.
    A: If you selected the option to Use the blind and low vision experience when logging into Webmail the first time, you will automatically be set to use the "light" version of Webmail when you log in. To disable this setting, go to Options, Accessibility and un-check the box to Use the blind and low vision experience. Once you’ve saved the change, next time you log in to Webmail, you will be on the "premium" version.

    Q: In Webmail, how do I select multiple messages to delete/move/copy at once?
    A: Depending on what version of Webmail you use (premium vs. light), there are two different ways to select multiple messages, after which you can perform the action (delete, move, etc.). Locate the version you are using and complete the following steps:

    Premium: Hold down the ctrl key while selecting individual messages to select each message you click on. If you want to select blocks of messages in a contiguous block, you can hold down the shift key and click on the first message, then the last message. All of the messages between and including your first and last selections will be selected.

    Light: There is an empty check-box next to each message which can be filled in to mark the message as selected. Fill in the check box for every message you want selected. If you want to select all of the messages on a page, there is a check box at the very top of the column of check boxes which will select all messages on the page if used.

    Q: I am using Webmail and my session keeps timing out. What should I do?
    A: When you log in to Webmail, the default Security setting is: This is a private or shared computer. If this option is selected, your session will timeout after 15 minutes. To extend your session, select This is a private computer and your session will timeout after 60 minutes.

    Q: Can I forward my CSUN email to a personal email account?
    A: Yes. Visit Forwarding Your CSUN Email and sign in with your CSUN email address and password. Select Forward and enter your Forwarding Address. Select Apply Changes to save.

    Q: I am enrolled in classes at CSUN and have a student Gmail account. Can I auto–forward emails from Gmail to my Exchange account?
    A: Yes. Log in to Gmail. Go to Settings and select Forwarding and POP/IMAP. Enter your forwarding address in the Forward a copy of incoming mail to field.

    Q: How do I change the way that my name appears in email?
    A: View Changing your Preferred Name in SOLAR. Please note that the Last Name, First Name format cannot be changed to First Name, Last Name.

    Q: Email that I send from my CSUN email account is not always delivered. What is wrong?
    A: CSUN students, faculty and staff have the option to auto-forward their CSUN email account to a personal email address. A recipient’s personal email address may be invalid and this is why they are not receiving your email. All users who have established auto-forwarding should monitor their personal email address on a regular basis. Please note that email sent outside of CSUN’s email system is unprotected. For this reason, we do not recommend sending/forwarding email which contains confidential or sensitive information.

    Q: Is email that I send from my CSUN email account protected?
    A: Email that is sent outside of CSUN’s email system is not protected. For example, if a recipient auto-forwards their CSUN email to a personal email address, your email will be routed to another system such as Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo, or AOL. For this reason, we do not recommend sending/forwarding email which contains confidential or sensitive information.

    Q: What can I do to reduce the amount of SPAM I receive?
    A: View Setting Junk Mail/SPAM filters.

  • Media

  • Q: What types of media services are available to faculty?
    A: A range of audio and visual (A/V) services are available for faculty. To learn more, visit Media Services.

    Q: How do I know what type of media equipment is available in my classroom?
    A: View Media Equipment in Auditoriums and Classrooms.

    Q: I am trying to connect my laptop to the projector in my classroom but it is not working. What do I do?
    A: View Troubleshooting Instructions for Laptop Projection Problems.

    Q: Where do I get keys to the classroom media boxes?
    A: Faculty with a valid CSUN ID can get keys at the IT Help Center (Oviatt Library, Room 33). If it is after 7:00pm, dial extension 1500 and a technician will bring the keys to your classroom.

    Q: Can I connect my Mac laptop to the classroom projector?
    A: Yes. You will need a Mac VGA adapter. There are different types of adapters for different models of Mac laptops. Media Services provides short term check-out of Mac adapters at the IT Help Center (Oviatt Library, Room 33). These adapters can also be purchased from Apple. Before purchasing, please be sure to consult your Mac laptop owner's manual to determine which VGA adapter is compatible with your computer.

    Once you have obtained the proper adapter, simply connect one end to your laptop and the other to the VGA cable that is available in the classroom.

  • Moodle

  • Q: What is Moodle?
    A: Moodle is the Learning Management System used at CSUN. Moodle is a type of course management software that offers a virtual classroom environment. For more information, view the Moodle FAQ page.

    Q: How do I access Moodle?
    A: Sign in to Moodle's Environment with your CSUN user ID and password.

    Q: Where can I obtain Moodle training?
    A: For online training, visit Moodle Training for Faculty and sign in with your CSUN user ID and password. For on-site training, view the IT Training Calendar.

  • myNorthridge Portal

  • Q: How do I access the myNorthridge Portal for the first time?
    A: Visit the CSUN homepage and go to myNorthridge Portal Login. Your CSUN User ID and Password will be issued when you sign–in with Human Resources. If you have not already done so, bring your completed New Employee Sign–In Form to the Human Resources office located in Room 165 of the University Hall building. The sign–in hours at Human Resources are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

    Q: When does maintenance take place?
    A: Wednesdays from 8:00pm through midnight and once a month on Sundays from 12:00am through 6:00am. During these times, access may be intermittently unavailable.

    Q: Where can I find how-to guides on using the myNorthridge Portal and SOLAR?
    A: Visit SOLAR Support: Student Administration and go to the "Information for Faculty" section on the left-hand side.

  • Remote Access & VPN

  • Q: How can I access CSUN's computing resources from an off-campus location?
    A: Most resources such as the myNorthridge Portal, and Gmail can be accessed via an internet browser. Others, such as the UDrive and WebDrive require a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection. The VPN creates a secure connection called a "tunnel" between your computer and the campus network.

    Q: I am repeatedly being prompted for my CSUN User ID and Password when I try to connect. Why is this happening?
    A: Make sure you are using your correct User ID and Password. To verify this information, view the CSUN User ID and Password Instructions. If you continue to have difficulties, contact the IT Help Center.


    Q: When I try to connect to the VPN, I receive the message, Initializing the connection. However, after a while, I am simply back at the connection screen where I get a disconnected message. Why does this happen?

    A: To ensure that you have entered the correct information, go to the VPN connection that you have already created and select Modify. From the configuration screen, ensure that the Host value is set to vpn.csun.edu and that the Group Authentication name and password are set to csun-vpn. If you continue to have difficulties, contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: I receive an error message indicating that the VPN software is Unable to contact the security gateway.
    A: Close the VPN and restart your computer. In most cases, this will resolve the issue; if it does not, contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: Where can I learn more about working remotely at CSUN?
    A: View Tips & Tricks for Working Remotely.

  • Security

  • Q: How can I protect my CSUN campus account?
    A: The number one way to keep your CSUN account safe is to never give your CSUN password to anyone, including family and friends. Second, when using public computers to connect to campus services such as email or the myNorthridge Portal, always log off the computer before walking away. Finally, never download and install software from unknown/un-trusted sources, and only visit trusted web sites. If you believe that your CSUN password has been compromised, immediately change your password and contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: How do I obtain Antivirus software for my computer?
    A: Symantec Anti-Virus is available for students, faculty and staff at no additional cost. Visit the CSUN Software Downloads page and sign in with your CSUN user ID and password. You will see Symantec Anti-Virus Corporate Edition available for downloading to a PC or Mac.

    Q: Which software programs help combat spyware?
    A: We recommend installing Spybot–S&D or Lavasoft Ad–Aware.

    Q: What is a STOP security plate? How do I obtain one for my laptop?
    A: For $10.00, a STOP security plate is the most cost–effective, anti–theft and recovery product available. Whether your laptop is lost or stolen, a STOP plate may increase the chances of your laptop being returned to you. For more information, view the STOP Program flyer.

    Q: Will CSUN ever ask me for personal information via email?
    A: No. Any email message asking for personal information such as user IDs, passwords, birthdates, and social security numbers is likely to be a phishing scam. Often, phishing scams will look like they're from banking institutions and other trusted organizations (such as the CSU). If you receive one of these messages, delete it immediately and never respond. Learn more.

  • Software/Hardware Discounts

  • Q: What kind of software/hardware discounts are available to CSUN faculty?
    A: There are several options available to faculty for obtaining software and hardware for academic and personal use. View Faculty & Staff – Software/Hardware Purchasing Options.

  • SOLAR

  • Q: What is SOLAR?
    A: SOLAR is the name for the administrative applications at CSUN. For faculty, SOLAR generally refers to the section in the myNorthridge Portal where you can enter grades, view class rosters, update contact information, etc.

    Q: Where can I find how-to guides on using SOLAR?
    A: Visit SOLAR Student Administration and go to "Information for Faculty" on the left-hand corner of the page.

  • Student Grades

  • Q. When can I begin submitting grades?
    A. Usually, grades rosters become available a week before finals week.

    Q. How do I submit grades?
    A. View the Faculty Center: Recording Grades Reference Guide.

    Q. When is the deadline to submit grades?
    A. Grades are due five business days after the day of the final.

    Q. How do I change a grade after I have already submitted grades?
    A. To change a student’s grade after it has been submitted, complete the Grade Correction form and submit it to Admissions" Records.

    Q. I need to submit grades but the Approve/Submit button is disabled. What do I do?
    A. Ask your department administrator to confirm that you are the primary or secondary instructor of the class and have Grade status in the SOC.

  • Student Registration & Permission Numbers

  • Q. How do I issue permission numbers?
    A. View the Faculty Center: Class Rosters, Emailing Students, Reference Guide.

    Q. How can I verify that a student used the permission number?
    A. Permission numbers that have been successfully used can be found in the "Used Permission Numbers" section in SOLAR.

  • Technology Training

  • Q: Where can I find user guides, tutorials and other resources for software/applications used at CSUN?
    A: Visit the IT Training Guides and Resources page.

    Q: Does IT offer any on-site training?
    A: Yes. View the IT Training Calendar.

  • UDrive, VDrive & WebDrive

  • Q: What is the UDrive?
    A: The UDrive is a document/file container that provides limited disk space for campus faculty, staff, and students to store coursework, work files, and research documentation, etc. View access instructions.

    Q: What is the VDrive?
    A:The VDrive is an extra storage area for faculty and staff who wish to use video on demand as an element in their web presence. View access instructions.

    Q: What is the WebDrive?
    A:The WebDrive is CSUN’s environment for hosting web content. View access instructions.

  • User ID & Password

  • Q: How do I find my CSUN User ID and Password?
    A: Your CSUN User ID and Password will be issued when you sign–in with Human Resources. If you have not already done so, bring your completed New Employee Sign–In Form to the Human Resources office located in Room 165 of the University Hall building. The sign–in hours at Human Resources are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

    Q: How do I change my CSUN password?
    A: Visit the CSUN Homepage and select the Forgot Password link under the myNorthridge Portal Login drop-down menu, or go to Forgot My Password. If this does not work, contact the IT Help Center by phone at (818) 677-1400, or visit Room 33 in the Oviatt Library. For security reasons, the Help Center is unable to reset your password via email.

  • Wireless

  • Q: How do I access CSUN wireless?
    A: Connect to CSUN's encrypted wireless network, csun_wpa2. This network will require a one-time login after initial setup and will not require a VPN connection for additional security. Learn more.

    Q: Which devices are compatible with CSUN's encrypted wireless network (csun_wpa2)?
    A: Most Wi-Fi capable devices purchased since the last quarter of 2006 are compatible; however, Gaming devices (e.g. Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox etc.) are not compatible.

    Q: Can I connect to CSUN's open wireless network (csun)?
    A: Yes, but we recommend using csun_wpa2 for a more secure connection, and so that you are not prompted for your user ID and password as you move between network zones. Learn more.

    Q: Which areas on campus have wireless coverage?
    A: View the Wireless Network Access Zones.

    Q: Can I access the wireless network from more than one computer at the same time?
    A: Yes.

  • Desktop/Laptop Recommendations

  • Q: I would like to purchase a computing system for my department, college or division. What do you recommend?
    A: View IT's Standard Desktop/Laptop Recommendations.

  • Email (Microsoft Exchange)

  • Q: How do I access staff email?
    A: View Options for Accessing CSUN Email (Webmail, Email Client, Smartphone)

    Q: Even though I’m using Internet Explorer as my browser, I’m still getting the "light" version of Webmail even though the checkbox isn’t marked when I log in.
    A: If you selected the option to Use the blind and low vision experience when logging into Webmail the first time, you will automatically be set to use the "light" version of Webmail when you log in. To disable this setting, go to Options, Accessibility and un-check the box to Use the blind and low vision experience. Once you’ve saved the change, next time you log in to Webmail, you will be on the "premium" version.

    Q: In Webmail, how do I select multiple messages to delete/move/copy at once?
    A: Depending on what version of Webmail you use (premium vs. light), there are two different ways to select multiple messages, after which you can perform the action (delete, move, etc.). Locate the version you are using and complete the following steps:

    Premium: Hold down the ctrl key while selecting individual messages to select each message you click on. If you want to select blocks of messages in a contiguous block, you can hold down the shift key and click on the first message, then the last message. All of the messages between and including your first and last selections will be selected.

    Light: There is an empty check-box next to each message which can be filled in to mark the message as selected. Fill in the check box for every message you want selected. If you want to select all of the messages on a page, there is a check box at the very top of the column of check boxes which will select all messages on the page if used.

    Q: I am using Webmail and my session keeps timing out. What should I do?
    A: When you log in to Webmail, the default Security setting is: This is a private or shared computer. If this option is selected, your session will timeout after 15 minutes. To extend your session, select This is a private computer and your session will timeout after 60 minutes.

    Q: Can I forward my CSUN email to a personal email account?
    A: Yes. Go to Forwarding your CSUN Email and sign in with your CSUN email address and password. Select Forward and enter your Forwarding Address. Select Apply Changes to save.

    Q: I am enrolled in classes at CSUN and have a student Gmail account. Can I auto–forward emails from Gmail to my Exchange account?
    A: Yes. Log in to Gmail. Go to Settings and select Forwarding and POP/IMAP. Enter your forwarding address in the Forward a copy of incoming mail to field.

    Q: How do I change the way that my name appears in email?
    A: View instructions on Changing your Preferred Name in SOLAR. Please note that the Last Name, First Name format cannot be changed to First Name, Last Name.

    Q: Email that I send from my CSUN email account is not always delivered. What is wrong?
    A: CSUN students, faculty and staff have the option to auto-forward their CSUN email account to a personal email address. A recipient’s personal email address may be invalid and this is why they are not receiving your email. All users who have established auto-forwarding should monitor their personal email address on a regular basis. Please note that email sent outside of CSUN’s email system is unprotected. For this reason, we do not recommend sending/forwarding email which contains confidential or sensitive information.

    Q: Is email that I send from my CSUN email account protected?
    A: Email that is sent outside of CSUN’s email system is not protected. For example, if a recipient auto-forwards their CSUN email to a personal email address, your email will be routed to another system such as Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo, or AOL. For this reason, we do not recommend sending/forwarding email which contains confidential or sensitive information.

    Q: What can I do to reduce the amount of SPAM I receive?
    A: View Setting Junk Mail/SPAM filters.

  • myNorthridge Portal

  • Q: How do I access the myNorthridge Portal for the first time?
    A: Visit the CSUN homepage and go to myNorthridge Portal Login.Your CSUN User ID and Password will be issued when you sign–in with Human Resources. If you have not already done so, bring your completed New Employee Sign–In Form to the Human Resources office located in Room 165 of the University Hall building. The sign–in hours at Human Resources are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

    Q: When does maintenance take place?
    A: Wednesdays from 8:00pm through midnight and once a month on Sundays from 12:00am through 6:00am. During these times, access may be intermittently unavailable.

    Q: Where can I find how-to guides on using the myNorthridge Portal and SOLAR?
    A: Visit SOLAR Support.

    Q: Where can I obtain SOLAR Access forms?
    A: Visit SOLAR Support. The forms are located under "SOLAR Acess Forms and Procedures."

  • Remote Access & VPN

  • Q: How can I access CSUN's computing resources from an off-campus location?
    A: Most resources such as the myNorthridge Portal, and Gmail can be accessed via an internet browser. Others, such as the UDrive and WebDrive require a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection. The VPN creates a secure connection called a "tunnel" between your computer and the campus network.

    Q: I am repeatedly being prompted for my CSUN User ID and Password when I try to connect. Why is this happening?
    A: Make sure you are using your correct User ID and Password. To verify this information, view the CSUN User ID and Password Instructions. If you continue to have difficulties, contact the IT Help Center.


    Q: When I try to connect to the VPN, I receive the message, Initializing the connection. However, after a while, I am simply back at the connection screen where I get a disconnected message. Why does this happen?

    A: To ensure that you have entered the correct information, go to the VPN connection that you have already created and select Modify. From the configuration screen, ensure that the Host value is set to vpn.csun.edu and that the Group Authentication name and password are set to csun-vpn. If you continue to have difficulties, contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: I receive an error message indicating that the VPN software is Unable to contact the security gateway.
    A: Close the VPN and restart your computer. In most cases, this will resolve the issue; if it does not, contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: Where can I learn more about working remotely at CSUN?
    A: View Tips & Tricks for Working Remotely.

  • Security

  • Q: How can I protect my CSUN campus account?
    A: The number one way to keep your CSUN account safe is to never give your CSUN password to anyone, including family and friends. Second, when using public computers to connect to campus services such as email or the myNorthridge Portal, always log off the computer before walking away. Finally, never download and install software from unknown/un-trusted sources, and only visit trusted web sites. If you believe that your CSUN password has been compromised, immediately change your password and contact the IT Help Center.

    Q: How do I obtain Antivirus software for my computer?
    A: Symantec Anti-Virus is available for students, faculty and staff at no additional cost. Visit the CSUN Software Downloads page and sign in with your CSUN user ID and password. Download Symantec Anti-Virus Corporate Edition for your computer.

    Q: Which software programs help combat spyware?
    A: We recommend installing Spybot–S&D or Lavasoft Ad–Aware.

    Q: What is a STOP security plate and how do I obtain one for my laptop?
    A: For $10.00, a STOP security plate is the most cost–effective, anti–theft and recovery product available. Whether your laptop is lost or stolen, a STOP plate may increase the chances of your laptop being returned to you. For more information, view the STOP Program flyer.

    Q: Will CSUN ever ask me for personal information via email?
    A: No. Any email message asking for personal information such as user IDs, passwords, birthdates, and social security numbers is likely to be a phishing scam. Often, phishing scams will look like they're from banking institutions and other trusted organizations (such as the CSU). If you receive one of these messages, delete it immediately and never respond. Learn more.

  • Service Interruptions & System Maintenance

  • Q: What is IT's maintenance window?
    A: Saturdays from 12:00-6:00am. Any services that may be impacted are posted on Fridays under Scheduled Service Interruptions.

    Q: What if a service is interrupted outside of the maintenance window?
    A: If a service should become unavailable outside of the maintenance window, a notice will be posted under Unscheduled Service Interruptions.

  • Software/Hardware Discounts

  • Q: What kind of software/hardware discounts are available to CSUN staff?
    A: There are several options available to staff for obtaining software and hardware for professional and personal use. View the Faculty & Staff – Software/Hardware Purchasing Options page.

  • SOLAR

  • Q: Where can I find how-to guides on using SOLAR?
    A: Visit SOLAR Support.

  • Technology Training

  • Q: Where can I find user guides, tutorials and other resources for software/applications used at CSUN?
    A: Visit the IT Training Guides and Resources page.

    Q: Does IT offer any on-site training?
    A: Yes. View the IT Training Calendar.

  • UDrive, VDrive & WebDrive

  • Q: What is the UDrive?
    A: The UDrive is a document/file container that provides limited disk space for campus students, faculty and staff to store coursework, work files, and research documentation, etc. View access instructions (PC and Mac).

    Q: What is the VDrive?
    A:The VDrive is an extra storage area for faculty and staff who wish to use video on demand as an element in their web presence. View access instructions.

    Q: What is the WebDrive?
    A:The WebDrive is CSUN’s environment for hosting web content. View access instructions.

  • User ID & Password

  • Q: How do I find CSUN User ID and Password?
    A: Your CSUN User ID and Password will be issued when you sign–in with Human Resources. If you have not already done so, bring your completed New Employee Sign–In Form to the Human Resources office located in Room 165 of the University Hall building. The sign–in hours at Human Resources are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

    Q: How do I change my CSUN password?
    A: Visit the CSUN Homepage and select the Forgot Password link under the myNorthridge Portal Login drop-down menu, or go to Forgot My Password. If this does not work, contact the IT Help Center by phone at (818) 677-1400, or visit Room 33 in the Oviatt Library. For security reasons, the Help Center is unable to reset your password via email.

  • Wireless

  • Q: How do I access CSUN wireless?
    A: Connect to CSUN's encrypted wireless network, csun_wpa2. This network will require a one-time login after initial setup and will not require a VPN connection for additional security. Learn more.

    Q: Which devices are compatible with CSUN's encrypted wireless network (csun_wpa2)?
    A: Most Wi-Fi capable devices purchased since the last quarter of 2006 are compatible; however, Gaming devices (e.g. Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox etc.) are not compatible.

    Q: Can I connect to CSUN's open wireless network (csun)?
    A: Yes, but we recommend using csun_wpa2 for a more secure connection, and so that you are not prompted for your user ID and password as you move between network zones. Learn more.

    Q: Which areas on campus have wireless coverage?
    A: View the Wireless Network Access Zones.

    Q: Can I access the wireless network from more than one computer at the same time?
    A: Yes.