Welcome to UCD!
This guide is designed to introduce the key IT services available and help you get started using IT at UCD. Technology can help make study easier and save time. UCD IT Services would like to wish you every success on your journey and invite you to Discover IT at UCD!
Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @ucditservices for the latest news and service announcements and make sure to keep an eye out for some exciting competitions during Orientation week!
Download the free UCD Mobile app available for Apple and Android devices featuring an interactive map of the campus, news, blackboard, an events calendar, dinning options and much more.
UCD Connect - your gateway to IT Services
UCD Connect provides access to Google Mail, Blackboard, Calendar/Timetable and Google Drive together with software applications and other services such as Office 365, your library account, online file storage, UCD noticeboard and news. Once you have wifi, UCD Connect is available 24/7 whether you're on or off campus.
Your account at UCD
This is known as your Connect username and password and gives you access to a number of important services including your computer account, SISWeb for reports and personal information, Blackboard, your eLearning platform and UCD Connect so you can study and stay organised wherever you are.
Your user id is your CAO number. The password* is your date of birth.
(*if you have already created a SISWeb password, use that to log in).
You need to change your password after a successful login, using the self service password service (selfpass.ucd.ie). Please do this as soon as possible.
Your email address and account will remain open for the duration of your academic career here in UCD. Once you graduate, you will retain access to your email and associated Google applications including Google calendar and unlimited storage space through Google Drive.
Did you know at UCD you can access most online services over your mobile phone!
Email at UCD
UCD email is provided in partnership with Google and provides each student with a personalised email address for life. Your UCD Connect account integrates with Google Calendar, Google Drive and Google+, all of which can be synced to smart phones for easy access.
Check your UCD Connect email regularly as it is the official channel through which administration related information is communicated to students. You will receive regular updates about registration, fees and exams, a monthly student e-zine, information from your Students’ Union as well as academic information.
To access your account go to UCD Connect and click on the mail icon.
Wireless Services
Wireless access to the UCD network is available campus wide in all the main buildings and in the student residences.
There are two wireless networks you can avail of: UCD Wireless and eduroam (authenticated access).
Before connecting to the UCD wireless network on your laptop you will need to have the correct anti-virus and security software installed.
Check that your web browser options are not manually configured to use any other internet settings you may use elsewhere.
Office 365, Google drive & Special deals
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Office 365 in UCD
As a registered UCD student you can download Office 365 for free. Office 365 can be used on PCs, Macs, tablets and smartphones and downloaded copies of Office remain active as long as the associated UCD account is active.
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Google drive
Google drive gives you unlimited storage space for all your files and the ability to share files and folders easily. Google Drive also gives you mobile access as you can sync files from your computer to My Drive which can be downloaded to your Mac, PC, iPhone, iPad or Android device.
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Special deals
UCD IT Services has partnered with a number of IT providers to offer best value for staff and students on software and hardware. If you are thinking of buying a mobile broadband contract, MS Office and other software or a new computer - take a look at the deals on offer here first.
Virtual Learning - Blackboard
The Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is used to provide e-learning services to students in UCD.
It allows module coordinators to share materials, post announcements for students, and run quizzes and surveys. Blackboard also has a Virtual Classroom facility, discussion forums and various other tools.
You can access Blackboard through UCD Connect, or directly from http://elearning.ucd.ie. Your Blackboard username is the same as your UCD Connect username.
Access to Blackboard on mobile devices is available (for Apple and Android devices) by downloading the BB Student app.
Software & Hardware
IT Services offer a range of academic software that can be accessed in a number of different ways.
Application Jukebox allows you - as a registered student - to access a selection of the most popular academic software (AutoCAD, SPSS and many more) without having to install the applications. Access this service from your own device through the Application Jukebox icon in UCD Connect using your UCD username and password.
Software Downloads provides access to applications that are licensed for local installation (Microsoft Office, Endnote). You can access this service in UCD Connect by clicking on the Software Download icon.
Some applications are also available to install on user devices and discounts are available on software purchases.
Please also note information on our Supported operating systems.
Buying a new laptop? Have a look at our recommendations for buying a new laptop.
IT Facilities plus Help & advice
IT support is available to all UCD staff and students. You can contact our IT Helpdesk at (01) 716 2700 or by emailing ithelpdesk@ucd.ie. Alternatively, you can drop into one of our IT Centres located in the Daedalus and Health Sciences buildings.
We also have a mobile IT Centre which moves across campus during term time. Check our website for dates and locations for the 2016/17 academic year.
IT Services have over 700 open access PCs and SUAS (Stand up and surf) facilities for staff and student usage across campus.
Keep you and your devices safe online
Protect your Password
UCD Passwords should be Unique, Strong and Never Shared
Protect your Account
Never use your UCD email address for social or personal websites or apps
Protect your Device
Apply software updates when they are due and install Anti-Virus software
Enable remote find and lock features
Protect your Information
Beware of Phishing, Encrypt your files and Backup frequently
Protect your online identity
Check your privacy setting and remember 'whatever you put online stays online forever'
Download Our Apps!
UCD Mobile
UCD Mobile is a free app which gives you really handy access to key online services.
New to UCD? You can use the campus map feature to find your way around! If you have an iPhone - tap into use the 3D interactive view to find whatever building you are looking for. You can also see what dining options are available nearby. Check class notes and announcements with Bb Student (Blackboard for Students) and look up library journals on the bus with library catalogue search! There is a news feed, a staff directory and more!
Download UCD Mobile from Google Play or the App Store
Blackboard
Bb for Student (known as Blackboard)
Bb for Staff (known as Blackboard Mobile Instructor)
Blackboard App is a feature of UCD Mobile but can also be downloaded separately. You can easily access course updates and content and there's an activity stream logging events and actions as they happen so you can keep up to date with your class. You can view, complete and submit assignments, partake in virtual classrooms, blogs and wikis and even take tests and check your grades using this app! Works with: iOS 8+, Android 4.2+, Windows 8.1+ Read more about Blackboard Mobile Apps
Download Blackboard or Blackboard Instructor (for staff) app from Google Play Store, Apple iTunes Store or Microsoft Windows Store