Welcome to Michigan Engineering! Many computing and information technology (IT) services are provided to you as a Michigan Engineering student, and designed to support your academic success!
There are two main IT providers you will interact with at U-M:
- Information and Technology Services (ITS) is U-M’s central IT organization and offers a standard set of computing services to all U-M students.
- CAEN is Michigan Engineering’s information technology department and provides academic computing and IT services specifically geared for Engineering students.
Introduction to Computing Resources
Learn more about computing resources at Michigan in our online Canvas orientation course:
Personal Computers & Loaner Laptops
Students are encouraged but not required to own a personal computer. CAEN provides a list of recommended options to consider when selecting a computer. Laptops are available for students to borrow from the North Campus Equipment Checkout as well as Sites@ITS.
Computing Access
Michigan Engineering students are eligible for Engineering computing access (often referred to as “CAEN Access”), which includes a set of computing services.
Connecting to Wi-Fi
MWireless is the Wi-Fi network you will access to connect your devices to the Internet in all U-M campus buildings. Visitors or guests on campus can use the MGuest Wi-Fi network to connect to the Internet.
Software
The CAEN Lab Software Environment (CLSE) is the desktop computing experience for students using CAEN computers. The software library bundled with the CLSE includes a large set of engineering-specific applications.
Computer Labs
Engineering students have access to dedicated computers with the CAEN Lab Software Environment (CLSE) in many locations across campus.
Logging in Remotely
Many CAEN lab services are available remotely including logging into virtual lab computers to access software and online file storage. Note: Due to licensing restrictions, some software applications can only be accessed on campus.
Online File Storage & Backups
All university students receive cloud storage from Google Drive and Dropbox. CAEN also provides students with storage for quick access to files in a “Home Directory” on CAEN computers.
Printing
ITS manages the printing services in most student computing sites on campus. Students use a university printing allocation to print from personal computers, CAEN or ITS computer labs.
Viewing Lectures Online
CAEN’s Lecture Recording Service allows you to access online recordings of your course lectures. Check with your course instructor to see if your lectures will be recorded.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) Access
The U-M Virtual Private Network (VPN) is available to all Michigan Engineering students to provide a secure computing experience when accessing a U-M network from a remote location.
Questions or Problems?
Additional information is available via the CAEN Knowledge Base. Consultants are also available to answer specific questions about all CAEN services.
Additional Resources for Students
- Michigan Engineering: Info For You
- ITS: Just for Students
- U-M Library: