ITS QUICKSTART GUIDE
Here are the basic rundown of IT tools, connectivity, and support you need to succeed. Before you get started, be sure to follow us on Instagram @binghamtonITS for real-time tech support updates and helpful tips.
REVIEW the tech page for everything tech while at Binghamton University:
Student tech page | Faculty/Staff tech page
1. Technology Essentials: Need a NEW computer?
Need new hardware? | Student | Faculty/Staff Hardware Recommendations
Before you arrive or start your first week, ensure you have the right hardware for your academic or professional needs. General Recommended Specs - For most students in Harpur College of Arts and Sciences or the Graduate School, a standard laptop meeting these "Recommended" specs will be sufficient.
Discover technology needed for a successful experience at Binghamton University. Explore our recommendations for laptops and desktops. Most major retailers offer student and educator discounts and a warranty—always remember to ask before you buy! Students and Fac/Staff can find discount options here, or by checking with the store you are purchasing from for an educational discount.
2. Secure Your Identity and Accounts
Create your BU Computer Account and University Google Workspace Passwords
With your BU computer account and University Google Workspace account you can connect to Wi-Fi, log into essential platforms like Bubrain and Brightspace, access computer labs, download software, access library resources, print using your student printing quota, and access your Bmail email and Google Workspace apps.
Student Account
Faculty/Staff Account
Setup 2FA and Google 2-Step Verification
Binghamton University requires that all accounts use two factors of authentication (2FA) to gain access to Binghamton University systems as well as enroll in Google 2-step Verification for email. To protect your data, Binghamton requires 2FA for University systems and Google 2-Step Verification for email. We recommend setting these up immediately after creating your passwords.
Two-factor authentication (2FA)
3. Get Connected
Explore our step-by-step guides that will help you connect to both our wired and our
secure and reliable Wi-Fi network, eduroam.
Wireless Wi-Fi Connection (eduroam):
To stay connected to eduroam (campus Wi-Fi) without issues, run the latest version of JoinNow on your devices. Use the secure "eduroam" network for all your mobile devices and laptops. Get connected for students, faculty, staff and guests.
4. Software & Creative Tools
Binghamton provides a wide array of software to help you work, create, and collaborate. Binghamton University provides a variety of software for students and faculty/staff to use for personal, academic and research purposes.
Student software
Faculty software
NOW AVAILABLE as of 2026:
Adobe Creative Cloud & Express
Through our SUNY-wide agreement, we offer industry-leading creative tools:
Adobe Express Premium: Free for all active students, faculty, and staff.
Students: Your license is automatically provisioned at the start of the semester.
Faculty/Staff: Request your license via the [Adobe Product Licensing Request].
Adobe Creative Cloud (All Apps): Includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro.
Students: Available at a discounted rate of $75/year via the [SUNY ITEC Storefront].
Faculty/Staff: Available via a yearly discounted departmental charge.
Adobe Acrobat Pro: Available for all active faculty and staff at no cost via request.
Other Software Available to Students/Faculty and Staff:
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- Google Workspace: Access Bmail, Drive, Docs, and more.
- Microsoft Office 365: Available for download for personal and academic use.
- Check the Student Software page for a full list of available software via BingView and ITS public labs.
5. Entertainment: Swank Movie Streaming
Take a break with Bearcat Cinema, our exclusive movie streaming service for residential students.
- What’s Included: Access over 500 movies and TV shows for free while on the residential network.
- How to Watch: Visit BearcatCinema.Binghamton.edu from any web-based device in your dorm.
6. Security Awareness
Stay vigilant against cyber threats. Review the Phishing page for these and more:
Phish Tank: Check for the latest scams targeting our community.
PhishChecker: Suspicious of an email you received? - run it through phishcheck.binghamton.edu.
Reporting: If you receive a suspicious email, do not click links or provide passwords. Visit
the Information Security page for instructions on how to report it.
7. Help
- You may find the answer to your question faster by reviewing our ITS site and Self-help resources located in our Knowledge Base. For additional assistance, contact the Help Desk.
- If you live on campus, check with your ResCon for tech help (more info here).
- System Status: Check for real-time updates on campus-wide outages.
Campus Map
ITS Facilities - where we are located.
Whether you're in search of dining areas, parking spots, classroom locations, restrooms,
bike racks, or bus stops, the user-friendly campus map has you covered. Explore the
campus through the Campus Map.