Computers

The Office of Information Technology (OIT) is dedicated to supporting the research mission of STRI by providing a comprehensive suite of IT services and productivity tools to our community.

Our offerings include:

• Robust Wired Network: Ensuring reliable access to the Internet and Internet2.
• Wireless Network: Available in most buildings and strategic open common spaces.
• Desktop Support: Accessible and dedicated contact center for all your desktop support needs.
• Applications Development and Web Services: Tailored solutions to meet your specific requirements.
• Voice Network: Efficient and reliable communication services.
• IT Consulting Services: Expert advice and support for most of your IT-related queries.

We are committed to delivering high-quality IT services to enhance your research and productivity at STRI.

The Office of Information Technology (OIT) offers multiple methods for reaching our Primary Care Customer Service team:

• Service Desk: Call us at +507 212-8000, Ext. 24357 (Internal: 24357)
• Service Portal: https://smithsonianprod.servicenowservices.com/si
• Email: Report incidents to strihelp@si.edu

Our OIT Help Desk staff serves as your single point of contact for all OIT-related issues. Whether you have problems, requests, or questions regarding our services, please do not hesitate to reach out to the OIT Help Desk.

A Smithsonian network account (SInet) provides access to the network, email, and a variety of optional services that may require additional authorization.

What is it?

Smithsonian network accounts grant access to the network, email, shared drives, and the SI-STAFF wireless network. Microsoft Outlook is the email system used by the Smithsonian.

Who can have an account?

Any staff member, fellow, visiting scientist, or volunteer with an approved visit is eligible for an account.

How to Register for an Account

Important Information: This abbreviated process is only available for non-US citizens. US citizens need to follow a different process for obtaining a network and email account. Please contact the Visitor’s Service Office or the Office of Academic Programs for more information.

1. Log in to the STRI Visitor’s Registration System portal: https://visitors.stri.si.edu
2. If you have an active visit, you will see the “Request a STRI/SI network account” option. Click on the green button on the right-hand panel.
   • Note: The option “Request a STRI/SI network account” will only be available to you one week before your approved arrival date and during your entire visit.
3. Review your visit information and click continue.
4. Read the Smithsonian Directive 931 and click continue.
5. Read and digitally sign the accompanying User Agreement, then click continue.

Your request will be submitted for processing. You will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to access your account to the email address you provided in your visit profile. Please ensure you have access to this email account and check it frequently.

You must complete the online Computer Security Awareness Training (CSAT) within 30 days, or your accounts will be suspended. Your STRI host/sponsor needs to approve your network  and email request.

Smithsonian staff follows a different process to request email and network accounts. Please contact your supervisor and/or the Human Resources Office for more information.

Smithsonian’s Computer Security Regulations no longer permit the connection of personal devices to the production network. You can bring your own devices and connect them to one of the publicly available wireless networks (WiFi) described below.

STRI provides secure wireless network access points in most of its facilities. If you have a wireless-enabled laptop, you may observe several wireless network options (SSIDs) when you are near one of the Access Points (APs):

1. SI-STAFF: Connects you directly to the SI/STRI production network, including network drives, Prism, Internet access, and other enterprise applications. Anyone with a Smithsonian network user ID and password can log onto this wireless network.
2. SI-INTERNAL: Intended for temporary visitors/invited guests who require Internet access but do not have Smithsonian network accounts. It requires a shared password that is periodically changed.
3. SI-VISITOR: Available in public spaces where WiFi is installed, providing visitors with free Internet access without requiring a password.

Eduroam is a roaming Internet access service developed for the international research and education community. Initially created in Europe, it is now present in the United States and across the globe, providing wireless (WiFi) Internet access to users of participating institutions, including the Smithsonian.