University IT
Guided Device Setup
Welcome to Stanford University! To ensure your new Mac is secure and equipped with the tools you need, we’ve streamlined your Stanford Guided Device Setup (SGDS). This brief, self-guided process will walk you through every step of your configuration.
Note: most setup processes within each milestone require a SUNet ID to complete the installation or login process.
All applications that fall under pillar one are required and should be completed in numerical order.
Note: Baseline applications and settings that are included in Stanford Device Setup are Cardinal Print Install and Set Print User, Cisco Secure Client VPN, Crashplan Cloud for Mac, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Google Drive for Desktop, Office 2024/365 for Mac, Slack, Webex Teams, Zoom, and browser settings: Stanford News Report Homepage for Chrome and Firefox.
1. Stanford Device Setup (SDS)
Required
Follow the steps on Stanford Device Setup (SDS) to ensure university compliance and that basic configuration is complete.
2. Cardinal Key
Required
Eliminate the need for passwords and streamline your authentication process across Stanford services.
3. Device Registration (SDR)
Required
Complete the Stanford Device Registration (SDR) process for standard device compliance monitoring.
The applications in this pillar are standard at Stanford University and essential for communication and collaboration.
Outlook
Required
Access your Stanford email and calendar securely using the Microsoft Outlook desktop client.
Slack
Required
Join Stanford's enterprise workspace. Collaborate with teams and departments in real-time.
Zoom
Required
Sign in to your Stanford-provisioned Zoom account to host and attend virtual meetings securely.
Apple Mail
Optional application
Configure the native macOS Mail application to securely sync with your Stanford Office 365 account.
These applications and services keep your device and data safe.
CrashPlan
Required
Securely backup your critical data automatically. Learn how to verify your backup status.
CrowdStrike
Required
Check that your device's advanced endpoint protection is enabled to secure against modern cyber threats.
Cisco Secure Client (VPN)
Required
Connect remotely to Stanford's network to access restricted campus resources safely.
Google Drive
Set up Google Drive for desktop to securely sync and access your Stanford collaborative files locally.
Note: Please use whichever application your specific organization/department prefers.
Microsoft OneDrive
Set up Microsoft OneDrive to securely store, share, and sync your Stanford files across all your devices.
Note: Please use whichever application your specific organization/department prefers.
While not required for your initial setup, these resources can significantly enhance your productivity. This section features supplemental workflow tools, approved AI applications, and additional services from Essential Stanford Software (ESS).
Explore the GenAI Tool Evaluation Matrix to make informed decisions about the appropriateness of certain AI tools for enterprise use.
macOS Update
Required
Ensure your Mac is secure and performing optimally by checking and installing the latest macOS updates.
Note: You can configure your other apps while the macOS Update is downloading.
AI Playground PWA
Additional application
Install the Stanford AI Playground Progressive Web App for quick access to approved AI tools.
Cardinal Print
Additional tool
Set up Cardinal Print to securely print, copy, and scan documents at supported devices across campus.
DUO Mobile
Additional tool
Set up DUO Mobile for two-step authentication to securely access Stanford systems and protect your account.
Essential Stanford Software
Additional application
Get applications that help you plug into the Stanford network (SUNet) and access university computing services safely and securely.
Gemini & Copilot
Additional application
Learn how to securely bookmark and log into Stanford's approved generative AI assistants.
Microsoft Office
Additional application
Install and set up Microsoft Office applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for your productivity needs.
Return Old Mac to IT Safely
Learn the proper procedures for securely preparing and returning your old Mac to Stanford IT.
