Resources

Internet Access Off Campus

The City of Tucson is accepting applications from college students with financial hardship who live in their Community Wireless coverage area. Selected applicants will receive free internet throughout 2021, funded by the CARES Act. Visit tucsonnetlink.com for more information about the program and to apply. 

 

The University does not promote or endorse any specific vendor; if you need internet access, one of these options may be right for you.  

At the time of this posting, we know of these free Internet offers for low-income families: 

  • Comcast (Xfinity): Xfinity WiFi Network nationally for free for two months to low income families  

  • Cox: First two months free of Connect2Compete service to qualified low income families 

Broadband Now has a Coronavirus Internet Service Guide with more resources and information on home internet service during the pandemic.

WiFi Hotspots

Please maintain proper precautions while accessing wifi outside your home. 

  • UAWiFi: There are locations where you can access the UAWiFi and eduroam networks on campus and around the state.
  • Statewide resources: The Connect Arizona map shows numerous free wi-fi locations across the state, including library, school, and business hotspots. 
  • Public libraries: Contact your local public library to see what resources they may have, such as Pima County Public Library.
  • Xfinity hotspots: Xfinity is allowing free access to any of their hotspots, usually only available to customers. Check the Xfinity hotspot map to see whether there is a location near you.

Connect securely. Be aware that when you are on a public wifi network your information is not secure. Use the UA VPN to securely connect to the campus network. 

Equipment Checkout

  • Library Technology Borrowing: Enrolled students can borrow and pick up technology (including laptops, video cameras, projectors, and cords) from 10am-2pm Sunday-Thursday in the Main Library lobby on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also schedule an appointment with us by contacting library@arizona.edu if these hours aren't convenient. 

     Get updates by visiting the Library's Access During COVID-19 page.

  • OSCR Gear-to-Go: Digital cameras, videocameras, tripods, lights, and microphones can be checked out for two days. Equipment will be sanitized between use.  

Computer Labs

  • OSCR computer labs are available all over campus, with consultants who can answer questions and pay-for-print CatPrints kiosks. See OSCR Labs Overview for locations and hours. Some labs may be reserved for teaching sometimes, so view the reservation schedule to ensure the lab you want is available. 

Software

  • Software licenses: Free and low-cost software you can install on your computer, including Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, Zoom, and more.  

  • VCAT: VCAT offers specialized software that you may normally access in a OSCR computer lab on main campus. Numerous software applications you can use virtually through your internet connection.  

  • Online Software Support: OSCR consultants are available via Zoom session to assist and guide you on how to use software to finish your projects. Adobe Creative Cloud, SolidWorks, other multimedia software, Office 365 applications, and more.

Security

  • Antivirus: Keep an antivirus/anti-malware subscription up to date on your computer. If you don’t currently have one, Sophos Home is an option.  

  • UA VPN: If you are working on an unsecured wireless network, use the campus VPN for a secure connection to the campus network.