Technology Setup Checklist
New to Questrom? Use this checklist to get your accounts, computer, connections, and essential services ready before you need them for class or work.
START HERE
Set Up the Essentials First
Complete these steps first. Your BU account and Duo authentication are the foundation for accessing most University and Questrom technology services.
1. Confirm Your BU Login
Make sure you can sign in with your BU account and know your current password. Your BU credentials are used across many University systems and services.
2. Set Up Duo
Enroll a phone or other authentication method in Duo before you need to access a protected BU service. If possible, configure a backup authentication option as well.
3. Check Your BU Email
Make sure you can access your BU email and check it regularly. BU uses your University email address for official communications.
YOUR DEVICE
Get Your Computer Ready
Make sure the computer you plan to use at Questrom is suitable for your program or work and is ready to connect to BU services.
Check Your Computer
Review Questrom laptop guidance before buying or configuring a computer, especially if your program uses specialized software.
Secure Your Device
Install operating system and application updates, use a secure sign-in method, and follow BU guidance for protecting University information and your computer.Install operating system and application updates, use a secure sign-in method, and follow BU guidance for protecting University information and your computer.
Using a Mac? Questrom supports both Windows and macOS, but some applications and workflows may differ. Review our Mac-specific guidance before you need specialized software.
CONNECT
Get Connected
Set up campus and remote access before you need to reach Questrom or BU resources.
1. Connect to eduroam
Use eduroam for secure wireless access at BU. Sign in with your full BU email address and password.
2. Set Up the BU VPN
Install and test the BU VPN if you will need to access services that require a BU network connection while off campus.
3. Know Your Remote Access Options
If your work requires access to a Questrom computer or other remote resource, review the available remote desktop options before working away from campus.
SOFTWARE
Install Your Essential Software
Get the core applications you expect to use before classes or work begin. Additional software may be required by your program, course, or role.
Microsoft 365
Eligible BU students can install Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint on their personal devices.
Zoom & Microsoft Teams
Set up the collaboration tools used for meetings, classes, group work, and communication at BU and Questrom.
Questrom Software
Your courses or role may use additional applications such as Adobe Creative Cloud, think-cell, or specialized business and research software.
STUDENTS
Check Your Academic Technology
Students should confirm access to the systems they may need for courses before the semester gets busy.
Confirm Blackboard Access
Sign in to Blackboard and confirm that you can access your available course sites. Course availability and content are managed by instructors and academic processes.
Know How to Print
Review Questrom printing options, quotas, printer locations, and setup instructions before you need to print..
Know Where to Save Your Files
Use BU-supported storage and sharing services rather than relying only on files stored locally on your computer.
FINAL CHECK
Test Your Setup
A few minutes of testing now can prevent a much more stressful technology problem later.
Sign In
BU Account
You can sign in and complete Duo authentication.
Connect
Campus & Remote
Your computer connects to eduroam and, if needed, the BU VPN.
WORK
Apps & Services
Your essential software launches and you can reach the Questrom and BU services you expect to use.
Don’t wait until class starts to test specialized software. If a course requires a particular application, install or access it early enough to resolve licensing, compatibility, or account issues.
Last content review: August 25, 2026
COMMON QUESTIONS
Quick Answers
Do I need to complete everything on this page?
Start with your BU login, Duo, email, Wi-Fi, and computer setup. Other services depend on your program, courses, or role.
Which Wi-Fi network should I use at BU?
Use eduroam for your personal computer and mobile devices. BU Guest is intended for visitors and does not provide the same access to BU resources.
Do students get Microsoft Office?
Eligible current BU students can install Microsoft 365 applications at no additional charge under BU’s licensing program.
Do I need the VPN on campus?
Usually not for ordinary internet access. VPN is primarily useful when a service requires a BU network connection while you’re away from campus.
I'm using a Mac. Is that okay?
Yes, but some Questrom software or workflows may have platform-specific requirements. Check the Mac and laptop guidance for your situation.
Where should I go if something isn't working?
Use the Questrom Tech Get Help page to identify the appropriate support option.
Still Need Help?
If an account, connection, application, or device isn't working as expected, Questrom Tech can help you identify the problem and the right support path.
Get IT Support
questromhelp@bu.edu
Visit The Helpdesk
617-353-9858
Mon – Thurs: 8am – 6pm
Friday: 8am – 5pm