Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I obtain a SUNet ID?
- I am either stuck at the "Login in progress..." screen or having trouble launching a course. How can I fix this?
- What version of OS X (Mac) should be used to run courses?
- What browsers are recommended when using TechPort?
- My computer is behind a firewall. Will that cause problems when I use TechPort?
- I have popup blocker software installed on my machine. Will that cause problems when I use TechPort?
- Where can I get technology training at Stanford?
- How do I install Essential Stanford Software?
- Where can I find Mac-specific online training for OS X?
How do I obtain a SUNet ID?
You will need a SUNet ID to access the TechPort.stanford courses. For more information and to set up a SUNet ID, go to the SUNet ID page.
You will need to know your University ID number.
- For students, faculty, and staff of the University, your University ID number will be on your offer letter, on your paycheck, or on your ID card.
- For Hospital staff, your University ID can be found on your MCD "Edit Your Profile" page.
I am either stuck at the "Login in progress..." screen or having trouble launching a course. How can I fix this?
SkillSoft, the company that creates TechPort courses, has a site available at http://support.skillsoft.com/customer/login.htm to help with this problem.
It includes a browser check to make sure your browser meets the proper requirements, has a pop-up blocker check, and checks to make sure you have the correct version of Java installed.
If you are using Internet Explorer, try making the following adjustments to your settings:
- At the Internet Explorer menu, select Tools>Internet Options.
- Click the Advanced tab.
- Scroll to the Microsoft VM and make sure all three boxes are checked.
- If there is a Java (Sun) box, make sure it is unchecked.
For more help, either call the SkillSoft helpline at 1-866-754-5435 or submit a HelpSU ticket.
What version of OS X (Mac) should be used to run courses?
It is recommended you use OS X 10.4 (Tiger)
What browsers are recommended when using TechPort?
The browsers currently supported are:
- Internet Explorer 6.0, 7
- Firefox 2.0
- Safari 2.0 or 2.04
- Note - When using the Mac, TechPort runs best on Safari
- Netscape 8.1.2
My computer is behind a firewall. Will that cause problems when I use TechPort?
You should still be able to access all the offerings and take the classes online. You can launch the classes, take the tests, print out any scripts, contact the mentors, etc. You cannot, however, download courses from the site to your hard drive.
I have popup-blocker software installed on my machine. Will that cause problems when I use TechPort?
Popup-blocker software, such as the Google or Yahoo Toolbar, and what's included in the latest browsers, can sometimes cause problems with TechPort.
We recommend you disable any popup blockers you have on your system first, and then launch TechPort.
To test if popup blocker software on your machine will cause you problems with TechPort, visit http://browser.skillport.com/bh/default.asp for a browser check.
Where can I get technology training at Stanford?
- Upcoming Classes - Information on courses offered by Tech Training Services, including a calendar of courses.
- Training By Appointment - 1-on-1 training to fit your needs. A 90-minute training session in which you can have up to five learning objectives. Training can be held in your office or our specially set-up training room.
- Classes on Demand - Information on setting up a special class for your department or group.
- Tech Briefings - Timely Info for Power Users and Stanford's Technology Support Community -- Informal sessions on computer-related topics of interest to the Stanford community, held Friday afternoons in Turing Auditorium. No registration, no cost.
- Tech Express - User-friendly Brown Bag Sessions on Computing at Stanford are intended to provide a quick, guided look at a particular computing topic. These sessions, led by knowledgeable IT Services Staff, are intended to meet the needs of Stanford staff. No registration, no cost.
How do I install Essential Stanford Software?
Stanford has pulled together software that helps you plug into the network and gain access to Stanford's computing services from your Macintosh or Windows-based computer. Visit the Essential Stanford Software site to see the software offered and get download and installation instructions.
Where can I find Mac-specific online training for OS X?
Here are a few sources to find Mac-specific training:
I'm using Virtual PC (a Windows emulation program) on my Macintosh to access TechPort. Will that cause any problems?
Since you are emulating a Windows machine on your Macintosh, the courses in TechPort will run more slowly than they would on a native Windows machine. However, TechPort should work via Virtual PC. If you do encounter problems (other than slow speed), or have any questions about accessing the site, using the courses, or planning your technology training, please submit a HelpSU ticket (choosing Request Category Support, Training and Other Services, and Request Type TechPort).
