RACS - New User Information

Welcome to the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences (CEOAS) at Oregon State University!

 

CEOAS has a lot of computing resources available for your use, so let's get started! The Research and Academic Computing Service (RACS) is here to help you with all your computing needs.

Before using any of the information here. Please go to the through the CEOAS Connect online support request form first to request an account with the college!

In-Person support is available between 9-4pm at the CEOAS helpdesk room located in Burt 159 or from the OSU Service Desk.

 

All Users of RACS are responsible for the OSU and CEOAS AUP:

1. Accounts

Note: Your passwords are very important. They should never be shared with anyone. Never send your password over email. We will never ask for your password. 
 

2. Wireless

  • There are three main wireless networks available to users on campus: EduRoam, OSU_Secure, and Visitor.
     
  • OSU_Secure is the preferred network for users with an ONID account otherwise visitor or EduRoam is available.
     
  • Instructions for connecting to all campus wireless networks.
     
  • OSU_Access is a legacy network still found around campus and RACS does not recommend users using that wireless network.
     
  • CEOAS also has a core network you can read about on our network page.

 

3. Email

Users are encouraged to use their OSU email (first.last@oregonstate.edu) while at OSU and not forward it to personal accounts.  To check your email, use your browser or you can setup a desktop client.

If you want to use an email client, you can find instructions on the OSU Helpdesk site.
 

4. Accessing file storage

You have access to file storage space on the RACS servers. This space is available from anywhere and is backed up nightly. Instructions for connecting your storage is available can be found on our site.
 

5. Printing

You have access to printers in CEOAS and printing is provided for free up to a certain number of pages. Information for connecting and using printers can be found on our site.
 

6. Software

Most of the software you will need is available from our Remote Desktop service. You can run applications on our servers on just about any device from anywhere. Setup instructions are available.

If needed, there are several software packages available for download by RACS users. This includes software from Microsoft, VMware, MathWorks, etc. We maintain the list of software on our site.

Microsoft Office 365 is now available free of charge.
 

7. VPN

While off-campus, to be able to access your files and other resources on-campus, you will want to install the VPN client. You can also use VPN while on campus on the wireless network. The installation instructions and installers are available here (ONID account required):

Configuring OSU Secure Data Services (VPN) on your laptop, desktop, or mobile device
 

8. Lab Computers

The CEOAS maintains several computer labs for your use. They are modern desktop machines that include all of the software needed for your coursework. More information about the labs is available on our site.
 

9. Getting Help

Every once in a while, you're going to need help with your RACS account or free software we offer or getting your laptop to function properly.  If you have a problem with your account or have any other questions, you can contact the CEOAS support staff: support@ceoas.oregonstate.edu. Users can also stop by Burt 159 for in person help.
 

These are the links you will need most often: