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A computer keyboard that represents IT Resources at NC State OR.

IT Resources

Get your IT resources like new software, remote PC access or connecting your office printer.

Last Updated: 06/18/2025 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

Need Help?

The OR Helpdesk is here to support you with any tech issues.

  • Monday – Friday | 8 am to 5 pm
  • isehelp@ncsu.edu
  • Walk-ins welcome at 4158 Fitts-Woolard Hall

About OR IT Resources

The Operations Research Program (OR) provides many IT resources to support its students, staff and faculty. If you need software for coursework or research, you can access various software resources to help with engineering, data analysis and design tasks. The program also offers remote PC access, allowing you to use your OR lab computer from anywhere. If you require a new device, you can request a PC to ensure you have the tools needed for your work. Additionally, if your printer runs out of ink, you can request printer ink to keep your projects moving forward. These resources make staying productive and focused on your work easier without unnecessary technical challenges.

Go to our IT Resources to access all resources available through the OR Program.

Remote PC Access Instructions

As a student, staff or faculty member, you can work remotely on your OR-owned campus computer. First, complete the Request Remote PC Access Form to get permission for remote access. After approval, use Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) when working off-campus. You must first log in to NC State’s Virtual Private Network (VPN) to connect successfully. This step ensures a secure connection to your office machine. Following these steps allows you to access your work computer from anywhere.

STEP 1: VPN (for off-campus access)

  • Go to https://vpn.ncsu.edu and log in using your UNITY ID and password.
  • Follow the instructions to install the AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client on your remote computer.
A screenshot of the Cisco VPN login screen.
  • Once installed, make sure to connect to “vpn.ncsu.edu.”
A screenshot of the VPN connection window.

STEP 2: Remote Desktop

You can use Remote Desktop (RDP) to connect to a Windows PC from another device. If you have a Windows computer, this tool is pre-installed as Remote Desktop Connection. Mac users can download the app from the Mac App Store.

  • On Windows 10 or 11, type “Remote Desktop Connection” into the search bar at the bottom of your home page.
  • A pop-up window will appear. Enter your PC’s hostname or IP address, then click Connect.
A screenshot of the Remote Desktop Connection window.

Lastly, another window will ask for your Unity ID and password. Use “wolftech\unityID” as your username. After entering your credentials, click Connect. Your office PC desktop will then appear, allowing you to work remotely.

A screenshot of the Remote Desktop Connection login window.

Connecting from Mac

Mac OS does not have Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) pre-installed, so you must install it yourself. First, go to the Mac App Store and download the Microsoft Remote Desktop application. Once installed, open the app and follow the necessary steps for remote access. This tool allows you to connect to your office machine from anywhere.

macOS Microsoft Remote Desktop 10 App Store web page.

Software Resources

NC State University offers you a wide variety of software for free or at a reduced rate.

First, explore the links below to find the software you need. Then, download the software directly from the provided links.

Still can’t find the software you need? Complete the Software Request Form, or please contact the ISE Helpdesk at isehelp@ncsu.edu.

Need to connect to an OR Printer?

Every OR networked printer has a hostname based on a North Carolina city or town. You can find this hostname on a label on the printer.

A printer with a red box around the name of the printer.

To install a printer, follow the instructions for using the CityName.ie.ncsu.edu domain name. OR PRO TIP: These steps apply only to student-owned computers. You should already have access to the print queue if you use an OR-owned PC. If you cannot find a printer, email isehelp@ncsu.edu with your computer’s hostname for help.

Connecting from Windows

  • Using the Start Menu, search “Control Panel,” then select Devices and Printers.
  • In the Devices and Printers window, click on Add a printer.
  • Select The printer that I want, which isn’t listed.
  • Choose Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings, then click Next.
Adding a local printer or network printer with manual settings.
  • Select Create a new port, choose Standard TCP/IP Port, then click Next.
A screenshot of the Choose a printer window.
  • Under Hostname or IP address, type in the hostname followed by “.ie.ncsu.edu”. For example, the hostname of this printer is Raleigh, so you would enter “raleigh.ie.ncsu.edu.”
A screenshot of the Type a printer hostname or IP address window.
  • Windows should find the driver automatically. (Note for Brother branded printers: “Brother PS Driver” should be selected.)
Selecting "Brother PS Driver".
  • Once it finds the driver, type in the printer’s name (this can be whatever you want to call it), then click Next.
  • Select Do not share this printer in the Printer Sharing window, then click Next.
A screenshot of the printer sharing window.
  • If you want this printer to be your default, select the Set as the default printer box. It is a good idea to print a test page to make sure it works. Once the test prints successfully, click the Finish button. The printer should now appear in Devices and Printers. You can select it whenever you print from a document or another application.
A screenshot of the You've successfully added generic/Text Only window.

Connecting from a Mac

If a network printer you want to use isn’t available, you can add it as an IP printer. Ensure you have the most up-to-date software installed before moving forward. 

  • Choose Apple Menu, System Preferences and then select Printers & Scanners.
  • Click the Add button at the bottom of the printer list, click the IP button, and then enter the printer information using the following information as a guide.
  • To set up your printer’s Address, enter the hostname followed by “.ie.ncsu.edu” (for example, raleigh.ie.ncsu.edu).
  • Next, click the Protocol pop-up menu and select Internet Printing Protocol (IPP), which most modern printers support.
  • If your printer requires a Queue name, enter it. If you are unsure, leave it blank or ask your network administrator.
Entering the printer information.
  • In the Name field, type a descriptive name, like “Color Laser Printer,” to help you identify it. For Location, enter details like “outside my office” to find it easily in the printer menu.
  • If the correct software does not appear in the Use menu, select Select Printer Software, then choose your printer from the list.
A screenshot of the "Add Printer" window.
  • Your printer should now be connected to the printer.

Additional Computing Services

HPC via VCL

You can access High-Performance Computing (HPC) through the Virtual Computing Lab (VCL) for research and academic needs. VCL provides students and faculty remote access to Virtual Machines (VMs) for different tasks. The ISE department offers HPC VMs for specialized computing needs that do not fit NC State’s main HPC system.

NC State HPC

NC State’s HPC group supports research and academic computing with entry- and medium-level HPC facilities and consulting and workflow assistance. If you need HPC access for your project, visit projects.ncsu.edu/hpc.

Storage Resources

NC State also provides various data storage resources for different needs, including productivity files, research computing, and general storage. These options ensure secure and accessible data management. To explore storage solutions, visit the OIT Storage Resource Summary page.

To learn more about OIT’s storage resources, go to  OIT Storage Resource Summary.