This guide walks you through the initial setup of your new Fullerton College-issued Acer laptop. The process enrolls the device in Microsoft Intune for management and access to college resources, including Wi-Fi on campus (eduroam), Office 365 apps, and additional software via Company Portal.
Steps:
1) Power On the Laptop
Plug the laptop into a power outlet using the provided power cord to ensure it has sufficient battery during setup.
Press the power button (located in the upper-right corner of the keyboard) to turn on the laptop. Wait for the initial setup screen to appear.
2) Connect to Wi-Fi
On the setup screen or login screen, connect to a Wi-Fi network.
If you are on the Fullerton College campus, select the eduroam network from the list.
When prompted, enter your Fullerton College credentials:
- Username/Email: Your 8-digit Student ID followed by @fullcoll.edu (e.g., [email protected]).
- Password: The same password you use for MyGateway (this syncs with your FC email/Office 365 password). Follow any on-screen prompts to accept certificates or complete the connection.
For detailed eduroam troubleshooting, visit: How to Connect to Wi-Fi | Getting Connected | Academic Computing Technologies (ACT).
3) Sign In to the Laptop
After connecting to Wi-Fi, you will reach the sign-in screen (often showing "Other user" or a similar prompt).
Enter your Fullerton College Office 365 email address:
- Email/Username: Your 8-digit Student ID followed by @fullcoll.edu (e.g., [email protected]).
- Password: Your myGateway password.
If sign-in fails, first verify your credentials by logging into your FC Office 365 email on another device (e.g., phone) at outlook.office.com or o365.fullcoll.edu. This activates/syncs the account if needed.
For help with your student email account, visit: Fullerton College Student Accounts | Accounts and Security | Academic Computing Technologies (ACT).
4) Complete Initial Setup and Explore Installed Apps
Once logged in, the laptop is ready for use. Microsoft Office 365 apps (Word, Excel, etc.) are pre-installed.
To open an app, click the Windows Search box in the bottom-left corner (or press the Windows key) and type the app name (e.g., "Word" or "Excel").
5) Install Additional Apps via Company Portal (if needed)
If your class requires extra software not already pre-installed, use the Company Portal app (search for it in the Windows Start menu).
Sign in with your Fullerton College Office 365 credentials.
Browse available apps, and install as needed.
Important: These laptops are secured—only software approved and published through Company Portal can be installed.
If a required class application is missing, coordinate with your instructor to email [email protected] for review and potential addition (see the Important Alert section for details on the request process and timelines).
New Security-Focused Management for Loaned Laptops
Your Fullerton College-issued Acer laptop runs Windows 11 and is enrolled in Microsoft Intune for enhanced security and reliable access to campus resources. Unlike previous student loaner devices—where users had local admin rights and could install any software—this generation of laptops is intentionally locked down to approved applications only.
This change addresses past issues with unauthorized downloads, viruses, malware, bloatware, and other security risks that compromised device performance and campus network safety. By restricting installations to vetted software delivered through the Company Portal app, we prioritize cybersecurity, protect your data and the college's network, and ensure a stable, consistent experience for all users.
How to Access Additional Software
- Most essential tools (including Microsoft Office 365 apps) are pre-installed.
- For class-specific programs (e.g., Respondus LockDown Browser or other specialized software), use the Company Portal app: Search for it in the Windows Start menu, sign in with your Fullerton College email (your 8-digit Student ID @fullcoll.edu) and password, and browse/install available apps.
- The library of apps in Company Portal will continue to expand as instructors request additions.
Requesting New Software If a required program is not yet available in Company Portal:
- Instructors should email [email protected] to submit a request.
- Requests must meet specific criteria:
- The software is required for a specific class.
- It complies with licensing requirements.
- It is compatible with the laptop's hardware specifications (some resource-intensive programs may not be supported).
- Approved requests are packaged for Intune deployment by ACT technicians, which may involve a processing delay (typically days to weeks, depending on complexity and volume).
**We appreciate instructors updating syllabi to reflect this process and directing students to Company Portal instead of direct downloads or outdated links.
Academic Responsibility and Device Support These loaned laptops are provided as a valuable resource to support your studies at Fullerton College. While ACT is committed to helping you succeed—through troubleshooting, software additions (where feasible), and technical support—we cannot excuse missed assignments, tests, or other academic obligations due to technical issues with the device.
Students are expected to proactively address any challenges:
- Check Company Portal early in the term for needed software.
- Contact instructors directly for accommodations or alternatives if a program is unavailable or delayed.
- Reach out to the ACT Help Desk promptly for assistance (email: [email protected] | phone: 714-992-7111 | in-person: Building 500, Room 517).
The laptop is a tool to help you meet course expectations—not a basis for extensions or waivers. We are here to support you to the best of our ability, but ultimately, academic performance remains your responsibility in collaboration with your instructors.
Thank you for your understanding as we implement these improved security measures. If you have questions, the ACT team is ready to assist!
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ensure your myGateway/Office 365 password is correct and recently used (reset via myGateway if forgotten).
- If eduroam won't connect, try a different network temporarily or visit the ACT Help Desk.
- For Company Portal issues, ensure you're connected to the internet.
- Laptops are managed by Fullerton College IT for security and stability—avoid attempting to install unauthorized software. Use Company Portal for all additional apps to ensure compatibility and security..
Need Help?Contact the Fullerton College Academic Computing Technologies (ACT) Help Desk:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 714-992-7111
- Visit: Building 500, Room 517 (or check current hours/location)
Your laptop is now set up and ready for classes! Enjoy your studies at Fullerton College.