What Technology to Bring
💻 Computer Recommendations
For the best university experience and to make sure your device is compatible with UMass Amherst technology resources, check our computer specification recommendations.
🖨️ No Printer Necessary
Personal printers are not supported on campus.
All undergraduate and graduate students receive a $5 credit equivalent to 100 pages of grayscale printing per semester, which can be used at any of our UPrint print stations across campus. On-campus printing is also available to anyone in the university community, and guests.
Activate Your Account
Your UMass Amherst IT Account gives you access to most computing resources on campus, including the student information system (SPIRE), email, wireless internet, and software downloads. Use the NetID and initial password sent to you via email to activate your account at umass.edu/spire
Click Activate Your Account on the lower left side of the page under IT Accounts.
Connect to Campus Networks
eduroam is the secure wireless network at UMass Amherst. You’ll need to configure your devices to connect to this network. Detailed instructions
- Go to umass.edu/it/eduroam.
If you need wifi to get there, use the UMASS network temporarily. - Download and run the eduroam setup app or wizard.
You will be prompted for your NetID and password.
Select streaming devices and game consoles (e.g. Apple TV, Xbox, Playstation, Switch) can be registered to connect to the UMASS-DEVICES network. See umass.edu/it/get-connected for instructions and more information about wireless networks at UMass Amherst.
Explore SPIRE
You will use SPIRE to register for classes, view final grades, sign up for on-campus housing, manage your university finances, sign up for emergency alerts, and more. Don't forget to add your cell phone number and non-UMass email address under My Personal Information.
Check Holds and To-Do's in SPIRE
Holds can restrict your ability to register for classes or access university services. Check for any Holds and To-Do's in SPIRE to resolve them as soon as possible.
Try the Canvas Student App
Most classes at UMass Amherst are taught using the Canvas learning management system (LMS). Access your course info, messages, and more on the go with the Canvas student app.
Check Your University Email
Don't miss out on important information! Check your UMass Amherst Gmail account regularly. The University uses your UMass email address for official email communications (e.g., excess check notices, enrollment updates, etc).
Security & Online Safety
Secure Your Account
Your UMass Amherst account is protected with two-step login, also known as multifactor authentication (MFA), which verifies your identity using a second device when you log in.
Set up the Microsoft Authenticator app to sign in more securely, reliably, and efficiently.
Stay Safe - How to Spot & Report Scams
Scam messages often claim to come from a reputable source, request information or favors, or offer something too good to be true. If a message or communication you receive seems suspicious, contact itprotect@umass.edu, or mark it as junk in your email client.
Safeguard Your Devices and Files
Enable automatic updates to keep your devices up to date and secure to avoid security issues. Check our guidelines to protect against viruses and security threats, and learn about more ways to protect your personal information from the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
Uninstall Peer-to-peer Software
Illicitly downloading copyrighted materials puts you at risk for fines, university sanctions, civil lawsuits, even criminal charges - and increases the risk of malware and system compromises. We recommend you remove BitTorrent clients and similar programs from your computer before coming to campus. Use legal means to obtain music, books, movies, or software. Learn more about copyright
Get Free & Discounted Software
- Free Windows operating systems and other Microsoft software. Restrictions apply.
- Free Microsoft Office 365 while you are an active student.
- Anti-virus software recommendations for Windows, Macintosh, and Linux
Check Out Our Computer Classrooms
- Computer Classrooms around campus.
- High-end academic software available in these locations.
- Some resources available remotely.