PantherBytes Blog
5 Reasons to Update Your Browser Today
Between classes, work, and everything else you have going on, it’s easy to forget that web browser updates are a thing. But with so much of life happening online, taking time to protect your digital…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Meta AI Builds Detailed Profiles of Children From Years of Family Posts
A mother says Facebook's Meta AI assistant volunteered a question asking who her daughter was in a video, then surfaced years of names, birth dates, photos, and location details about her kids. Meta…
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PantherBytes Blog
Our Favorite Outdoor Spots on Campus — Complete with Wi-Fi
When the weather’s nice, you shouldn’t have to stay inside just to get your work done. On Pitt’s campus, nice weather and study sessions don’t have to be mutually exclusive. PittNet, the University’s…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
Update Your Browser to Protect Against a New Security Vulnerability
Google has identified a security vulnerability affecting its Chrome web browser that could allow an attacker to run harmful code on an unpatched device. Simply visiting a webpage that exploits this…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
September 2026 Microsoft Security Update
Timely updates and reboots are essential to maintain the security and integrity of the University’s network. Please take note of the following updates and guidelines in three areas related to…
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PantherBytes Blog
Digital Tools to Share with Your Students
Students often turn to their instructor first when they have a question — even one that’s more technical than academic. Here’s your guide to digital resources available this semester, so you…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
FBI Probes Service Selling 153M+ Drivers Licenses
A dark web service called Nexus is selling scans of more than 153 million drivers licenses from the U.S. and Canada, apparently sourced from a breach at a Louisiana identity verification company. The…
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Service Announcement
Update Zoom to Version 7.1.8 by Sept. 14
To protect the University community, Pitt Digital will enforce a minimum version of the Zoom client beginning Monday, Sept. 14. Older versions of Zoom contain vulnerabilities that make users more…
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Service Announcement
PittNet Wi-Fi Name Change at UPMC Locations on Sept. 3
As part of a summer-long network modernization initiative that’s nearing completion, the University’s Wi-Fi network names are changing at participating UPMC locations.The next time Pitt affiliates…
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In the News
Update Now to New PittSAFE Public Safety App
The Office of Public Safety and Emergency Management is rolling out PittSAFE, the new Pitt-branded public safety app replacing RAVE Guardian, which will be discontinued Sept. 10. The app was shaped…
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In the News
ICYMI: Pitt Wi-Fi Got an Upgrade This Summer
Pitt Digital completed a summer-long network modernization initiative that retired the legacy Wireless-Pittnet and Pitt Guest Wi-Fi networks on the Pittsburgh campus on Aug. 12. Faculty, staff and…
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PantherBytes Blog
GenAI Etiquette: Human Habits to Keep Trust in Your Work
If you’re using Generative AI @ Pitt to help you work more efficiently, you probably already know that speed isn’t the only thing that matters. The way you use GenAI can also shape how your work…
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Success Story
The Pitt CIC Finds CommonGround Between Health Research and the People It's Meant to Serve
Health research can take years to design, conduct, analyze, and publish. Yet once the work appears in a medical journal, the people most affected by it can still struggle to understand what the…
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In the News
Your Pitt Login Comes With a Ton of Digital Tools (Not Just AI)
Pitt Digital provides students with a broad toolbox of free software and technology beyond generative AI platforms like Claude for Education, Google Gemini, and PittGPT. Through vendor agreements…
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PantherBytes Blog
Talk, Meet, Share: The Right Tool for Every Conversation
When you need to send an email, hop on a call, or record today’s lecture, you want to choose the right tool for the job. At Pitt, you have plenty of options to support your communication and…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Warning: Compromised Hotel Routers Send Users to Phishing Sites
Researchers at ReliaQuest found attackers hijacking hotel and conference-center Wi-Fi routers to silently redirect travelers to fake Microsoft 365 login pages, a DNS-poisoning tactic observed across…
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PantherBytes Blog
When A Fake Email Looks Legit: How to Spot Business Email Compromise
You don't have to be a cybersecurity expert to protect yourself, but it helps to know what's out there — starting with Business email compromise, or BEC. Unlike phishing scams riddled with typos from…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
August 2026 Microsoft Security Update
Timely updates and reboots are essential to maintain the security and integrity of the University’s network. Please take note of the following updates and guidelines in three areas related to…
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Service Announcement
Change to Claude for Education Activation Effective Aug. 7
Starting after 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, new users of Claude for Education will need to activate their licenses through myapps.microsoft.com before signing on at claude.ai. This change strengthens…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Amazon and Apple Impersonated in "$149.99 Unauthorized Charge" Scam
A full-screen popup warns that your Apple ID or Amazon account was just charged $149.99, urging you to call a number for help. Both the Apple and Amazon versions share the same phone number — a…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Ransomware Moves Up the Org Chart: Managers Are Prime Targets
New research from Zscaler ThreatLabz looks past the headlines to examine which employees are compromised at the start of a ransomware attack, and what makes managers with elevated authority…
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PantherBytes Blog
Digital Survival Guide: Don’t Forget About Cybersecurity
Pitt Digital has your back all year long with cybersecurity tips that actually stick. Every student at Pitt completes a required annual cybersecurity training, and this year's edition zeros in on…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
Pitt Digital Says Preventing Hacks Complex, But There Are Areas to Scrutinize
Pitt Digital has taken steps to strengthen security following this spring's Canvas data breach, an incident that affected more than 100 institutions and led Instructure, Canvas's parent company, to…
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PantherBytes Blog
Digital Survival Guide: Software Made Simple
With the new semester just around the corner, it’s time to get your software set-up started. By the time you collect all your syllabi and set up your study schedule, the last thing you’ll want to…
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Service Announcement
Legacy Wi-Fi Network Names Retire Aug. 12 on Pittsburgh Campus
On Wednesday, Aug. 12, the legacy WIRELESS-PITTNET and PITT GUEST WI-FI network names (SSIDs) will be retired on the Pittsburgh campus. To avoid connection disruptions, individuals on campus before…
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In the News
Need a Laptop for Fall? These University Resources Can Help You Spend Less.
Pitt Digital offers several resources to help students save money on computers ahead of fall semester. Before buying, students can consult Pitt's purchasing guide to determine actual specs needed…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Cybersecurity Experts Call OpenAI Hack 'Inevitable'
A Pitt professor wasn't surprised when OpenAI's CEO said one of its AI systems autonomously hacked into another AI company, Hugging Face, using stolen credentials and a previously unknown…
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PantherBytes Blog
Digital Survival Guide: In-Person Tech Spots to Know
When you’re on campus, it’s nice knowing where there’s a person who can look at your laptop when you need support, a printer when you need a hard copy, or an outlet when your phone's running low. You…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Scammers Impersonate FBI on Social Media, Prey on Crime Victims
The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center warns that scammers are creating fake social media profiles and AI-generated videos of officials, then offering to help recover funds from prior scams in…
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PantherBytes Blog
Digital Survival Guide: Start Your Semester Here
Starting at Pitt is a lot. New campus. New schedule. New everything. The last thing you need is to show up without the digital tools you need to hit the ground running. This checklist walks you…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
July 2026 Microsoft Security Update
Timely updates and reboots are essential to maintain the security and integrity of the University’s network. Please take note of the following updates and guidelines in three areas related to…
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Service Announcement
New Verification Step Required to Export or Print Salesforce Reports
Starting this month, exporting or printing a Salesforce report will require an extra verification step, a security enhancement designed to protect data from unauthorized access. The rollout is…
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PantherBytes Blog
Digital Survival Guide: Your Digital Life Starts Here
Welcome — or welcome back — to Pitt! 💙💛 In 2026, your life at the University isn’t confined to the physical world. Digital resources connect you to your classes, your peers, and your future. That’s…
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Service Announcement
Transitioning Pitt Websites to Modern, Secure Hosting Platforms
The University’s Enterprise Web Infrastructure (EWI) environment will be retired on August 6, 2027, and websites currently hosted within will need to transition to a new platform before that date…
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PantherBytes Blog
What's In Your Adobe Toolkit: A Guide for Pitt Faculty and Staff
Need to whip up a flyer for a department event? Edit a PDF before it goes out to your team? Design something a little more polished than what Microsoft 365 can offer? Pitt Digital can help you access…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
Vendor Incident Increases Phishing Risk
A recent breach of a third-party vendor’s CRM system has exposed business contact information held by several vendors in Pitt’s portfolio, increasing the risk of phishing and social engineering…
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Service Announcement
Digital Certificate Service Transitioning July 9
Beginning Thursday, July 9, InCommon, the consortium that provides Digital Certificates for the University, is transitioning from Sectigo to a new certificate platform, CertiNext. Existing…
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PantherBytes Blog
OneNote: The One App Your Notes Have Been Missing
If you’re someone who keeps a million and one digital and physical notebooks (and can never find the note you’re looking for), Microsoft’s all-in-one digital notebook is ready and waiting in your…
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In the News
How Pitt Faculty and Administrators are Navigating Generative AI, Together
Pitt Digital provides students, faculty, and staff with access to a suite of institution-approved AI tools through Generative AI@Pitt, built around equitable access and privacy protections. The tools…
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In the News
Pitt CyberCamp Fosters Interest in Growing Cybersecurity Field
Pitt Digital helps organize an Air Force Association CyberCamp, a free, weeklong cybersecurity program for high school students now in its 10th year at Pitt. More than 1,400 students have completed…
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Service Announcement
GlobalProtect VPN Update Coming June 26
On Friday, June 26, Pitt Digital will automatically update GlobalProtect VPN to version 6.2.8 on all University Windows and Mac devices. This update brings enhanced security and improved stability to…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Americans Lost $900 Million to AI-Powered Scams Last Year
The FBI reports Americans lost nearly $900 million to AI-powered scams in 2025, driven by voice cloning, deepfakes, and AI-generated scripts that supercharge romance scams, extortion calls, fake…
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PantherBytes Blog
Your Password Is So Last Year. Here’s What to Do About It.
If you’re still using the same password you made up years ago, this is your sign that it’s time for an upgrade. In today’s digital age, we’re responsible for more password-protected accounts than…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Privileged Access Misuse: The Risk You Can't See Until It's Too Late
As identity becomes the primary attack surface, attackers increasingly log in with valid privileged credentials rather than breaking in. This piece outlines why traditional access controls fall short…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
Trust New PittNet Wi-Fi Certificate Starting June 20
Pitt Digital will update the University’s PittNet Wi-Fi security certificate at 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, as part of our annual renewal to maintain wireless security. Wi-Fi services will remain…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Colleges Hit in Cyberattack by Group Behind Canvas Breach, Google Says
Google says the ShinyHunters group, responsible for the Canvas breach, may have accessed data at more than 100 organizations by targeting Oracle's PeopleSoft software; 68% of the targets identified…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Beware of CAPTCHA Look-Alikes
CAPTCHA checks — or pop-ups with a quick test to determine if the computer user is a robot — have become inescapable on the modern web. The FTC is warning that fraudsters are spreading fake CAPTCHA…
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Service Announcement
Final Preparations for Oracle Data Warehouse Retirement on July 1
During the past year, Pitt Digital has been working closely with Oracle Data Warehouse users to help them prepare for the migration to our Snowflake Data Warehouse, a modern, flexible platform for…
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Service Announcement
Enhancements to Forgotten Password Recovery and Login Experience
In response to customer feedback and to further enhance security, Pitt Digital is introducing two enhancements on June 10 that will make it simpler and more convenient to recover a forgotten password…
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PantherBytes Blog
Work from Anywhere: Tips for Your Best Virtual Office
This summer, you have a pretty good reason to fine-tune your remote work setup. Starting in July, PennDOT’s closure of I-376 Parkway East will route interstate traffic through Forbes and Fifth…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
June 2026 Microsoft Security Update
Timely updates and reboots are essential to maintain the security and integrity of the University’s network. Please take note of the following updates and guidelines in three areas related to…
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PantherBytes Blog
Vacation-Proof Your Inbox: Out of Office Tips for Outlook
Summer is here, and with it — vacation season. When you’re deep in travel planning mode, returning to the office is probably the last thing on your mind. But while you’re away, your inbox isn't. So…
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In the News
Campus Buildings Undergoing PittNet Wireless and Wired Internet Upgrades This Summer
Pitt Digital is leading a major Network Modernization Initiative, installing nearly 4,000 new Wi-Fi access points across all non-residential Oakland campus buildings to eliminate coverage gaps and…
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PantherBytes Blog
How Pitt Students Are Navigating Generative AI
What are Pitt students actually saying about AI? A faculty research team spent the spring of 2025 finding out — and Pitt Digital was proud to support their work.
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Streamlined Research Security Refresher Course Now Available
Pitt's Office of Research Protections has rolled out a shorter Research Security Refresher Course to meet federal training requirements. The streamlined version reviews disclosure rules under the…
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Success Story
Saving Surgeons Hours: Pitt CIC Automates Knee Alignment Measurements with AI
Before surgeons perform knee replacements, they need to know exactly how the patient’s knee is aligned. That means manually placing markers on an X-ray of the patient’s full leg from hip to ankle and…
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PantherBytes Blog
Sharpen Your Professional Skills This Summer with LinkedIn Learning
The semester might be over, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop learning. Summer is a great time to brush up on the professional skills you may not have had the bandwidth to perfect during the…
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In the News
Infrastructure Enhancements Powered by Dell Technologies Will Help Pitt Accelerate AI-Powered Health Care
Pitt Digital partnered with the Department of Pathology's Computational Pathology and AI Center of Excellence (CPACE) to secure a grant from Dell Technologies for new servers and data storage systems…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Consider the Risks Before You Tap to Pay: Exploring the Ghost Tapping Scam
"Ghost tapping" lets scammers exploit near-field communication technology to charge tap-to-pay cards without physical contact. Schneider Downs outlines the risks for organizations that have added…
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PantherBytes Blog
What It Takes to Upgrade the Campus Network
Campus is a place to connect with professors, students, colleagues — and, of course, Wi-Fi. No matter where you are on campus, you’ll see laptops, tablets, and mobile devices all connected to the…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Google Detects First AI-Generated Zero-Day Exploit
Google's Threat Intelligence Group identified a cybercrime group using AI to develop a zero-day exploit bypassing two-factor authentication in an open-source admin tool, marking the first known…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
May 2026 Microsoft Security Update
Timely updates and reboots are essential to maintain the security and integrity of the University’s network. Please take note of the following updates and guidelines in three areas related to…
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PantherBytes Blog
Create High-Powered Surveys with Qualtrics
You may know that Pitt is a top-rated research university, but did you know that all students, faculty, and staff have access to a high-powered research tool? Qualtrics lets anyone in the Pitt…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Attackers Continue to Pose as Help Desks in Social Engineering Attacks
Google's Threat Intelligence Group is tracking a threat actor that impersonates IT help desks, contacting victims over Microsoft Teams and using a fake "Mailbox Repair Utility" page to install…
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In the News
Join Pitt’s Digital Spring Cleaning Challenge
Pitt Digital is supporting the University's Digital Spring Cleaning Challenge, an initiative encouraging faculty and staff to delete unneeded files from OneDrive, SharePoint, and email to reduce…
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In the News
Software Review Committee to Evaluate Licensing Costs to Rein in Growing Expenses
Michelle Niedermeyer, executive director of enterprise applications at Pitt Digital, explained that the committee is a “cross-representative collaborative group,” including representatives from every senior officer area at Pitt.
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Service Announcement
Campus Network Upgrades Coming This Summer
This summer, Pitt Digital will conduct a major upgrade of PittNet — the University’s Wi-Fi and wired network, which also supports Eduroam — across the Pittsburgh campus. The following work will begin…
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PantherBytes Blog
Behind Every Login: What Duo Mobile Is Doing for You
Every time you tap Approve on a Duo push notification, you’re doing more than logging in — you’re confirming that you’re you.Pitt Passport and Duo multifactor authentication work together to protect…
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Success Story
One Year of Building What's Next: Celebrating the Pitt CIC's First Year
A year ago, the University of Pittsburgh Cloud Innovation Center (CIC), powered by AWS, opened its doors with a straightforward but ambitious mission: bring together Pitt students and cutting-edge…
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PantherBytes Blog
Don’t Take the Bait: How to Spot a Phishing Scam
If you’re a person with an email address, you’ve probably received a phishing scam. And while there are plenty of obvious signs to watch out for, modern scams have evolved to be even trickier than…
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In the News
Pitt Digital Seeks Input on Exploring Network-as-a-service Model to Save Resources, Money
Virtually everyone who works at Pitt is connected to, if not dependent on, an elaborate digital network that — in providing myriad services via WiFi or hard-wired internet service — involves a complex infrastructure of specialized equipment and components, multiple provider contracts, and the steadily rising costs of system software licensing, maintenance and replacement costs.
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PantherBytes Blog
Reflections from a Digital Ambassador: How I Balance School, Work, and a Social Life at Pitt
As a full-time student at Pitt juggling schoolwork, my jobs, and a busy social calendar, some weeks are bound to be chaotic. I try to convince myself that just staying organized and not…
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In the News
NASA Recruited Pitt to Track the Artemis II Mission
The team took advantage of Pitt Digital’s partnership with Anthropic. “Finding that signal is like finding a needle in a haystack,” Dickerson said. “We were able to use Claude so that we knew when we needed to point the antenna to hopefully catch the astronauts’ signal.”
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PantherBytes Blog
Graduating Soon? Here’s What to Know About Your Tech
Graduation is almost here, and while you’ve probably thought a lot about what comes next, there’s one thing that might not have crossed your mind: What happens to my digital services?Any soon-to-be…
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PantherBytes Blog
Real Talk: AI and Sustainability
As generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) becomes part of daily life, more people are asking: What does this mean for the planet? Maybe you’ve seen headlines about data centers consuming a lot of…
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In the News
Town Hall Addresses Concerns About AI
At Pitt's March 19 town hall, CIO Mark Henderson addressed questions about the Anthropic and AWS partnership, emphasizing that the University is offering the community choices while highlighting the…
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PantherBytes Blog
Log Off, Recharge, Repeat: Screen Time Tips for Digital Wellbeing
When was the last time you put your phone down and didn't pick it up again for a few hours? If you're drawing a blank, you're not alone. Between classes, meetings, emails, assignments, and the…
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PantherBytes Blog
3 Tips to Clean Up Your Cloud Storage
It’s easy to overlook the clutter accumulating in your digital space, but an overabundance of stuff (even digital stuff) can make life harder. Every year, Digital Cleanup Day is a reminder to take our digital clean-up duty seriously, since a messy system can be a huge distraction.
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PantherBytes Blog
Spring Into Paperless: The Pitt Tools That Make It Easy
Spring is around the corner, and you may be feeling the urge to declutter and start fresh. Going paperless is a great way to do just that. It's good for your productivity and the planet.
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Success Story
Transforming Healthcare Research: Pitt CIC Accelerates Medical Data Privacy with AI-Powered Solution
Before healthcare researchers can analyze patient data, they face a critical obstacle: removing all protected health information (PHI) to protect patient privacy. This de-identification process isn't…
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Service Announcement
Digital Certificate Renewal Changes Begin March 15
Beginning March 15, Pitt-issued Digital Certificates will need to be renewed more frequently — existing certificates won't be affected until they’re renewed. If you manage servers, websites, or…
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PantherBytes Blog
Travel Smart: Tech Tips for Your Next Adventure
Whenever and wherever you travel, your digital devices are along from the ride. Nowadays, your phone is your boarding pass, your map, your hotel key, and your lifeline — which means a dead battery or spotty signal can be a major headache. Here's how to keep your power, connectivity, and digital documents working for during your next adventure.
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Cybersecurity Awareness
New Sensitivity Labels Now Available in Microsoft 365
You can now encrypt and control access to sensitive emails and documents directly in Microsoft 365. Sensitivity labels built-in to applications like Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint allow you to…
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Service Announcement
Update Older Duo Mobile App Versions Before March 31
Duo has announced that individuals using Duo Mobile app versions older than 4.85.0 will need to update to the latest version before Tuesday, March 31, to ensure uninterrupted use of Duo multifactor…
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PantherBytes Blog
The Microsoft 365 Features You Didn't Know You Needed
Here's something that might surprise you: Some of the most useful features built into your Microsoft 365 apps have been hiding in plain sight — originally designed with accessibility in mind, but…
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Success Story
How Pitt CIC is Helping Pitt Athletics Turn Fan Feedback into Better Game Day Experiences
For organizations that rely on survey data to make decisions, the path from raw responses to actionable insight has always been frustratingly slow. Analysts often need to navigate multiple tools…
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PantherBytes Blog
This Is Your Sign to “Redd Up” Your Digital Space
It’s time for a little digital housekeeping. Files, emails, and tabs can pile up fast, so it’s always a good idea to set aside some time to “redd up” (that's Pittsburghese for “tidy up”) your digital space. Here are a few simple ways to get started.
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In the News
Using AI at Pitt? Here Are Five Secure Apps for Your Tool Belt
Pitt is expanding student access to Claude for Education as part of Generative AI @ Pitt, a Pitt Digital initiative providing students, faculty, and staff with secure, vetted generative AI tools for…
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PantherBytes Blog
The Student Tech Perks You’ve Been Missing
Did you know that your student technology account can get you way more than just email and Wi-Fi? Pitt students can access tools, software, and services worth more than $2,500 in retail value! If…
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In the News
AI Platform Claude for Education Launches for Pitt Community Members
Pitt is setting a national precedent for AI in higher education through its partnership with Anthropic and Amazon Web Services, which provides students, faculty, and staff with access to Claude for…
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PantherBytes Blog
Build Better Presentations: Microsoft Sway vs. Microsoft PowerPoint
Back in 2021, we discovered Microsoft Sway and were amazed by its ability to transform our presentations. Its dynamic design engine and narrative storytelling power were revolutionary, especially…
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Service Announcement
Enhanced Password Requirements Take Effect Feb. 11
Effective Feb. 11, Pitt Digital is updating the requirements for University Computing Account passwords to better protect the Pitt community and align with security best practices. With the new…
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PantherBytes Blog
Outlook Calendar Simplifies Your Schedule
If your calendar is dispersed across multiple spreadsheets, apps, and half-forgotten printed planners, this is your sign to consolidate your schedule with Outlook Calendar. As part of Microsoft 365…
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PantherBytes Blog
How to Protect Your Digital Fingerprint
You probably wouldn’t hand a stranger your wallet, share your Social Security number over the phone, or leave your front door unlocked when you leave for the day. But online, many of us take risks with our personal information that we’d never consider in real life and often without realizing it.
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PantherBytes Blog
Need a New Year's Resolution? Reclaim Your Time With GenAI
It’s the time of year when you’re probably making big plans to change your life — and we’re no exception. But our new year’s resolution doesn’t require you to overhaul your morning routine or…
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PantherBytes Blog
Stay Cybersafe While You Celebrate the Holidays
Whether you're heading home for the holidays, catching up with family and friends, or finally taking a well-deserved break, the last thing you want is a cybersecurity incident to ruin your time off…
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In the News
Breaking Health Data Barriers: Pitt Medical Researcher Collaborates With Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center
Electronic health records use proprietary reference codes that vary from hospital to hospital, creating a significant barrier for medical researchers trying to share and analyze data across…
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In the News
Pitt’s New AI Hub Aims to Make Artificial Intelligence Practical for Students and Their Careers
Pitt has announced a new Hub for AI and Data Science Leadership (HAIL), which will serve as a coordinating center to connect AI innovation currently siloed in individual classrooms and departments…
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PantherBytes Blog
Our Best Kept GenAI Secret? CREATE Powerful Prompts
Good prompts matter because they can save you time, headache, and tokens — the behind-the-scenes “currency” of generative AI. While most of us have chatted with a GenAI tool, you might need some tips…
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Success Story
Pitt CIC Tackles Healthcare's Data Translation Challenge with AI-Powered Mapping Solution
For decades, healthcare researchers have faced a frustrating obstacle before they can even begin their work: deciphering what their data actually means. Medical records use proprietary codes that…
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PantherBytes Blog
Claude for Education Is Made for Learning
The newest Generative AI @ Pitt tool is now available to all faculty and staff with student access coming soon. Claude for Education is designed to go beyond simple answers to deepen understanding…
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In the News
HR Introduces Employee Virtual Assistant to Augment Team Member Assistance
Pitt Digital is working with the University's Office of Human Resources to implement a digital assistant on the OHR website. This chatbot helps employees by providing quick and efficient access to HR…
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In the News
CIO Says Claude for Education Offers Ethical AI Tool That Faculty and Staff Can Choose to Use
The University has launched Claude for Education for faculty and staff through a one-year partnership with Anthropic and Amazon Web Services. CIO Mark Henderson emphasized that faculty retain full…
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In the News
Interfolio Partnership Could Help Ease Tenure and Promotion Process
The University is partnering with Interfolio to enhance faculty tenure, promotion, and review procedures. This collaboration, supported by Pitt Digital, aims to reduce administrative burdens and…
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PantherBytes Blog
Debunking 5 GenAI Data Privacy Myths
Generative AI can feel like a colleague, a trusted assistant, or even a confidant. Its responses are so humanlike that it’s easy to forget you’re talking to a machine. But the truth is, unlike when…
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In the News
Pitt's John Duska Named One of Pittsburgh's Top CISOs
Congratulations to John Duska, Pitt's chief information security officer, on being named one of the "10 CISOs to Watch in Pittsburgh" by CISO Whisperer, a cybersecurity news and analysis publication…
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PantherBytes Blog
Stress Less, Enjoy More with GenAI Holiday Helpers
Between finals, year-end work deadlines, gift shopping, travel planning, and everything else life throws your way, the holidays can feel less like a break and more like another project to manage…
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PantherBytes Blog
NotebookLM: The Study Tool for Students Who Care About Learning
You've done all the readings. Highlighted the important parts. Took detailed notes. Then, you’re suddenly trying to squeeze in a 3 a.m. study session but your study group is sound asleep. That's…
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PantherBytes Blog
How to Spot and Avoid GenAI Hallucinations
A strange side effect of generative AI is hallucinations, or when a GenAI tool confidently delivers completely made-up information. Maybe you asked for a works cited page and received citations for…
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In the News
Act Now to Replace macOS 13 (Ventura) to Keep Access to PittNet
Pitt Digital users to upgrade their systems from macOS 13 Ventura, which will lose vendor support on Nov. 30, 2025. Users are advised to update to macOS 14 Sonoma to ensure continued security updates…
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PantherBytes Blog
Microsoft Planner Helps You To-Do Everything
Are you too stressed to function? Making to-do lists on scraps of paper you can’t find later? Losing track of assignments amid midterm season chaos? Whether you’re chronically under-organized, or…
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Service Announcement
Access to University Resources From macOS X 13 (Ventura) Ends Nov. 30
Effective Sunday, Nov. 30, devices running macOS 13 (Ventura) will no longer be able to access University resources through PittNet VPN (Pulse Secure) or Global Protect VPN. Apple…
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In the News
AI Dominates Discussions With Conference, New Degree and AWS Partnership
The University of Pittsburgh is collaborating with Anthropic and AWS to offer Claude for Education to students, faculty, and staff, as part of a broader discussion on AI's role in academia. This…
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In the News
Pitt to Deploy New AI Tool to Assist Students, Faculty
Pitt is deploying Claude for Education to assist students and faculty, marking a unique rollout as the first university to integrate this AI model with Amazon Web Services. The tool will serve as a…
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In the News
Pitt, Anthropic Ink Partnership for Institution-Wide Claude for Education Rollout
Pitt has been tapped by AI company Anthropic for a first-of-its-kind partnership. Pitt is the first university in the country to ink an institution-wide agreement for an Amazon Web…
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PantherBytes Blog
Ask Them Anything, Anywhere: Your Built-In GenAI Assistants
Your favorite Generative AI @ Pitt tools are even more powerful than you might think. Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat is now built directly into your Microsoft 365 apps and Google Gemini can help you from…
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In the News
Pitt Is Teaming Up With Anthropic and AWS to Create an AI-Enabled Campus of the Future
The University of Pittsburgh is leading a national milestone by partnering with Anthropic and Amazon Web Services (AWS) to create an AI-enabled Campus of the Future. Through this partnership, Pitt…
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Success Story
Pitt Athletics Leverages AWS AI to Supercharge Fan and Alumni Engagement
The world of collegiate athletics thrives on passionate fan engagement, alumni connections, and philanthropic support. For the University of Pittsburgh Athletics department, reaching and nurturing…
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In the News
How Pitt’s CyberCamp Is Drawing High Schoolers Back to the University
Pitt's CyberCamp program is engaging high school students by providing insights into cyberthreats and preparing them for potential future careers in cybersecurity. With over 1,000 participants in the past nine years, many students return for advanced sessions and some enroll at Pitt for undergraduate studies. The program offers a free educational pathway in cybersecurity, addressing the global shortage of cyber workers.
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PantherBytes Blog
Use Your Brain: How You Can Make GenAI More Effective
Generative AI has been marketed as a magic wand able to do your thinking for you. While it’s possible that some of us would rather automate all their thinking, I started to wonder if this was really the best way to use GenAI. From my experience using the Generative AI @ Pitt tools, it’s far more effective when you (a real person!) are in the driver’s seat doing critical and creative thinking for yourself.
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PantherBytes Blog
What Does It Mean to be Pitt Digital? Our Transformation, Explained
Over the summer, we changed our name from Pitt Information Technology to Pitt Digital, marking a pivotal evolution in our role at the University. This change reflects the ongoing transformation that…
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PantherBytes Blog
PittGPT Is Your New Work Bestie: 5 Ways to Get Started
Faculty and staff now have access to PittGPT, powered by CAI, the secure, custom-built platform designed specifically for the University community. One of the biggest advantages to PittGPT is that your conversations and uploaded documents are safe and secure, so you can fearlessly integrate GenAI into your official Pitt business.
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In the News
Newly Branded ‘Pitt Digital’ Embraces AI, Innovation Hubs
Pitt Information Technology has rebranded as Pitt Digital to better reflect its role in the University's digital transformation efforts. This shift includes embracing AI, virtual realities, and establishing innovation hubs like the Pitt-AWS Cloud Innovation Center. Pitt Digital remains committed to providing seamless tech support and aligning services with departmental goals, while continuing to focus on enhancing the digital campus experience for students, faculty, and staff.
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In the News
PittGPT Debuts Today as Private AI Source for University
Pitt Digital debuted PittGPT, the University of Pittsburgh's proprietary AI, as a secure tool for faculty and staff. Designed to enhance work efficiency, PittGPT provides similar capabilities to popular AI models like ChatGPT but ensures data security by keeping user information within the University's environment. The initiative reflects Pitt Digital's commitment to safeguarding sensitive information while encouraging users to leverage AI's potential while being mindful of accuracy and reliability.
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Service Announcement
PittGPT Now Available for All Faculty and Staff
Pitt Digital is introducing the University’s first proprietary generative AI tool, PittGPT, powered by CAI, now available to all faculty and staff as part of our Generative AI @ Pitt offerings. With…
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In the News
Library Director Says Hillman ‘Even Better Than What I Envisioned’
Pitt Digital and Hillman Library have partnered to create a Technology Lab as part of the library's renovation. This lab includes Windows and Mac PCs, Drop-In Support, Tech Ambassador programming, and classroom space dedicated to teaching programming languages, AI, and other technology-related topics. The collaboration enhances educational opportunities by combining resources and expertise from both the library and Pitt Digital.
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PantherBytes Blog
Chat Responsibly: How to Avoid Common GenAI Mistakes
If you’re someone who uses generative AI regularly, you can probably spot the signs of bad GenAI usage. Too many irrelevant emojis, too much filler, and way too many buzzwords (seriously, how many…
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PantherBytes Blog
Pitt Print 101: Your Guide to Student Printing on Campus
Need to print a syllabus, a research paper, or that final draft? Pitt Print makes it easy. This essential service is available to students currently registered in classes as well as Pitt…
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Success Story
How Pitt Diving is Reimagining Performance with Cutting-Edge Tech
The world of competitive diving demands precision, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to improvement. For the University of Pittsburgh Diving team, pushing the boundaries of performance…
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In the News
The Ultimate Guide to Pitt Student Perks
Pitt Digital provides students with free access to essential software tools, including Microsoft Suite and Adobe Creative Cloud. These resources support academic work by offering programs like Word, Excel, and Photoshop for project creation and collaboration.
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Service Announcement
AI Notetakers Now Approved: Teams AI Notes and Zoom AI Companion
Pitt Digital has approved two integrated AI notetaking tools for University use: AI Notes in Teams Premium and Zoom AI Companion. These vendor-native applications enable users to create real-time…
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PantherBytes Blog
Generative AI Isn’t Going Anywhere — Here’s What You Need to Know
By embracing and learning to use AI tools, students, faculty, and staff can leverage them to generate innovative ideas, identify more efficient ways to accomplish tasks, and enhance their overall…
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Success Story
Dive In: Revolutionizing Coaching with Automated Highlight Reels
The Pitt Cloud Innovation Center, powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), collaborated with the Pitt Diving team to improve operational efficiency and create automated highlight reels. Before this…
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PantherBytes Blog
More Speed, More Devices, More Fun: MyResNet Takes Campus Living to the Next Level
Pitt’s residential network, MyResNet, plays a vital role in supporting the digital needs of a vibrant student community. During the previous year, MyResNet was used by more than 8,500 students living…
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PantherBytes Blog
Pitt Information Technology is Now Pitt Digital
Pitt Information Technology is undergoing a transformative rebranding over the summer to become Pitt Digital. This change reflects our evolving role in shaping the University's digital future and our…
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PantherBytes Blog
5 Ways Generative AI @ Pitt Will Supercharge Your Work
Ready to dive into the exciting world of artificial intelligence (AI)? Pitt Digital is introducing Generative AI @ Pitt: a suite of user-tested, security-backed tools designed to propel the Pitt…
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PantherBytes Blog
Spotlight on Joe Yun: Leading AI Enablement at Pitt Digital
Recently, Pitt Digital's Joe Yun transitioned his role to Director of AI Enablement. His goal is to transform how AI is integrated into the University's core mission to engage in research, teaching…
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PantherBytes Blog
From Classroom to CyberCamp: Inspiring the Next Generation of Cyber Pros
Michael Pry, a professor in the Information Technology and Cybersecurity programs at Pitt Greensburg, returned to Pitt CyberCamp for his second year as an instructor — and this time, he brought…
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PantherBytes Blog
The Ultimate Guide to Studying (or Working) Off Campus
Whether you're commuting to campus a few days a week, taking fully online classes, or working remotely as a student employee, learning to create a productive, tech-friendly home setup is essential…
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PantherBytes Blog
Email 101: 9 Tips to Write Better Emails at Pitt (and Beyond)
Whether you're reaching out to a professor, TA, supervisor, or potential employer, your emails make an impression. Even in an age of DMs and group chats, email remains the most professional and…
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PantherBytes Blog
Wi-Fi 101: How to Stay Connected at Pitt
Trying to join a Zoom class or submit an assignment when your Wi-Fi won’t cooperate is the worst. Whether you're living on campus or hanging out in Hillman, a reliable connection is a must. Good…
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PantherBytes Blog
Cybersecurity 101: A First-Year Survival Guide
As you dive into your classes, make new friends, and explore everything the University has to offer, there’s one more thing to add to your college to-do list: protecting your digital life. 🧠💻Whether…
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PantherBytes Blog
Your Pitt Digital Survival Guide for a Smooth Start
Starting college is exciting but let’s face it, it can also be overwhelming. Between finding your classes, meeting new people, and learning how to do laundry (finally), technology might not be the…
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PantherBytes Blog
Power Up Your Studies in the Student Computing Labs
See how Pitt student Brandon Sia leverages the Student Computing Labs to power up his own studies.
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In the News
Mark Henderson Details Transformative Year in IT Challenges, Innovations
CIO Mark Henderson outlined a transformative year for Pitt IT, focusing on evolving from a traditional IT model to a more agile and responsive organization. Key initiatives include addressing…
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PantherBytes Blog
Planning for a Productive Summer
Summer is almost here—and, trust us, we want you to enjoy it! Relax, recharge, and soak up the sun. But if you find yourself with some extra time between vacations and binge-watching your favorite…
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In the News
University of Pittsburgh Partners with AWS on Cloud Innovation Center
Pitt Digital partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to launch a Cloud Innovation Center. This collaboration aims to leverage data, analytics, and AI to enhance health sciences programs and athletic…
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PantherBytes Blog
Reflections from a Graduating Senior: 10 Tech Tools I Wish I’d Discovered Sooner
On Saturday, I had the honor of walking across the stage and turning my tassel, officially becoming a Pitt alumna. I’ve been reflecting on the last four years at Pitt. As a Pitt IT student blogger…
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In the News
Share Your Feedback on Pitt’s IT 10-Year Horizon
Pitt Digital launched a "IT 10-Year Horizon" initiative, seeking feedback from the University community to shape its strategic roadmap. The plan focuses on revolutionizing the student experience…
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In the News
Students Will Drive Pitt Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center
Pitt Digital and Amazon Web Services opened the Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center, powered by AWS, to drive advancements in AI and data analytics. Students play a central…
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PantherBytes Blog
Using AI and Data to Launch the Future of Health and Athletic Analytics
On April 23, Pitt launched a monumental initiative with the official ribbon-cutting for the newly established University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center…
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In the News
Pittsburgh Weekly Roundup
The University of Pittsburgh and Amazon Web Services have launched a Health Sciences and Sports Analytics Cloud Innovation Center, where paid student interns will begin developing applications to…
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In the News
AI Takes the Field at Pitt
Pitt Digital and AWS partnered to launch a pioneering initiative aimed at revolutionizing sports science and athlete performance through artificial intelligence. This Center, unique in the region and…
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PantherBytes Blog
Pitt and AWS Launch Cloud Innovation Center: Bringing AI to Health Sciences and Sports Analytics
On April 23, representatives from Pitt Information Technology and Amazon Web Services (AWS) will gather at the Tech Building on Fifth Avenue to officially launch an exciting new partnership: the…
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In the News
AWS's First East Coast Cloud Innovation Center Opens at University of Pittsburgh
The ribbon was cut Wednesday on the first Amazon Web Service-powered Cloud Innovation Center on the East Coast at the University of Pittsburgh. The new Health Science and Sports Analytics Cloud…
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In the News
Cloud Innovation Center Launch at the University of Pittsburgh
In a landmark partnership that promises to transform both health sciences research and athletics, Pitt and Amazon Web Services have announced the establishment of the University of Pittsburgh Health…
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PantherBytes Blog
Tech Tips for Mastering Your Move-Out
Moving out is a whole thing. You’re juggling finals or work, packing your entire life into boxes, and trying to figure out how you ended up with three coffee makers. With so much going on, your tech…
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In the News
Identity Theft ‘Red Flags’ and Information Security Policies Approved
The University approved two new policies aimed at enhancing identity theft prevention and information security. The Identity Theft "Red Flags" policy aligns with federal requirements to detect and…
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PantherBytes Blog
8 Ways to Defuse a Zoom Bombing
Remember Zoom bombing? It was all over the news when schools and businesses went remote during the pandemic, causing Zoom to implement features to stop people or bots from engaging in disruptive…
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PantherBytes Blog
Essential IT Steps to Prepare for Graduation
This blog helped students prepare for graduation in 2025. Updated information for 2026 grads can be found in Graduating Soon? Here’s What to Know About Your Tech.Congratulations, soon-to-be graduates…
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PantherBytes Blog
County Executive Sara Innamorato, Using Tech to Lead
On March 19, the Pitt IT Tech Ambassadors hosted an engaging event featuring Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, who also happens to be a proud Pitt Business graduate. The event saw an…
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PantherBytes Blog
Tech for Finals Prep: Study Smarter
Finals season is here, and whether you’re tackling final papers, projects, or exams, having the right tech tools can make all the difference. Instead of cramming at the last minute, take advantage of…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Implementation of Research Security Requirements
The anticipated release of new research security requirements related to NSPM-33 and the CHIPS and Science Act has been delayed due to the recent Presidential administration transition.
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Phishing Emails Aren't as Obvious Anymore. Here's How to Spot Them
New research shows that instead of attention-grabbing subject lines, scammers are going with more subtle pitches to get you to click.
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Challenges to Using Large Language Models in Code Generation and Repair
With the latest advances in LLMs, artificial intelligence (AI)-based code development assistants are increasingly part of day-to-day software development. A recent study of 500 U.S.-based developers…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Protecting Human Genomic Data when Developing Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools and Applications
The NIH has issued new restrictions on use of NIH Controlled-Access Data Repositories, including a prohibition of access by countries of concern and restrictions on the use of the data for…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Enhancing Security Measures for NIH Controlled-Access Data
The NIH has issued new restrictions on use of NIH Controlled-Access Data Repositories, including a prohibition of access by countries of concern and restrictions on the use of the data for…
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PantherBytes Blog
9 Ways to Use AI for School, and 5 Pitfalls to Avoid
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way students and educators approach learning. From helping with research to improving writing, AI can be an invaluable tool when used responsibly…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
What to Do With Your 23andMe Account After Company Filed Bankruptcy
In light of the uncertainty looming over the company’s future, you should do one thing to protect your privacy today: delete your 23andMe account.
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Tech Tips for Trouble-Free Travel
As temperatures rise, you may be gearing up for summer travel. Whether you’ll be taking a semester abroad, doing on-site research, or just enjoying some well-earned rest and relaxation, keeping your…
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PantherBytes Blog
Level Up Your Job & Internship Search with Pitt IT
A summer job or internship position is the perfect way to gain real-world experience. If you are graduating, your first post-graduation job will be the first step in your professional journey. Either…
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In the News
County Executive Innamorato to Talk About Tech Influences
Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, an alumna of Pitt’s College of Business Administration, will be on the Oakland campus March 19 for an exclusive conversation about how tech influenced her…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
How Do Malicious Apps End up on Official App Stores?
While you may think that downloading apps from official app stores is entirely secure, you can still catch malware that will steal your private data.
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PantherBytes Blog
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is packed with features that can make your life easier — if you know where to find them! Whether you’re writing a paper in Word, crunching numbers in Excel, or organizing your inbox in…
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Success Story
Student Powers Up in the Labs
Brandon Sia, a mechanical engineering student at the University of Pittsburgh, has found the Student Computing Lab to be an invaluable resource in his academic journey. For Brandon, the Student…
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PantherBytes Blog
Reflections and Tips from a Senior Tech Ambassador
Hi there, it’s resident Tech Ambassador blogger Brandon here! After a restful winter break before my last semester here at Pitt, I’m back and writing to you all about my experience as a Tech…
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PantherBytes Blog
Why I Love (and Sometimes Don’t Love) Tech
As a student at Pitt, I rely on technology daily to stay on top of classes, connect with friends, and finish my work. Some days, I’m seriously grateful for how easy it makes my life. Other days? Not…
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In the News
Computing Committee Updated on Planning Initiative for Tech Marketplace Developments
The Computing and Information Committee discussed ongoing initiatives to address the University's technology needs and anticipate future market changes. Led by CIO Mark Henderson, the initiative involves public feedback and planning to align with emerging technologies and trends over the next five to 10 years. The discussions included updates on AI standards for University data use and partnerships with Dell and UPMC to advance health sciences and computational pathology through AI-driven projects.
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In the News
Pitt Works: A Real, Live Person Greets Callers to Oakland Campus
A real voice — that’s what callers to Pitt want to hear most, says Maureen Ryczaj, the University’s lone full-time operator. Ryczaj and her team of two part-time staffers and several student employees answer up to 250 calls a week from all over the world — but mostly from Pitt students and their parents.
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Acceptable Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools
This new Operating Standard describes the types of Generative AI models and software that can be used with various classifications of University data, as well as user responsibilities for the use of…
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PantherBytes Blog
5 Steps for Spotting and Stopping Misinformation Online
Let’s face it: social media is all over the place. TikTok is banned. TikTok is back. Whatever app you use, your feed is probably full of hot takes, trending stories, and viral memes. But not…
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PantherBytes Blog
Preventing Identity Theft: Be Sure YOU Get Your Tax Refund
It’s that time of year when employers and financial institutions start sending you W-2s, 1099s, and other tax forms for 2024. Unfortunately, there are bad guys out there who are hoping you get a…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Top-Rated Chinese AI App DeepSeek Limits Registrations Amid Cyberattacks
DeepSeek, the Chinese AI startup that has captured much of the artificial intelligence (AI) buzz in recent days, said it's restricting registrations on the service, citing malicious attacks.
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Digital Risk Bulletin
New web-based tool designed to connect Pitt research faculty with collaborators, projects
Given the often-daunting nature of digital communications, particularly within academic circles, a newly unveiled, Pitt-centric digital tool that uses research keywords to help faculty find cross-disciplinary collaborators and their projects hits the utilitarian sweet spot for researchers like Rob Rutenbar.
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Digital Risk Bulletin
Updated NIH Genomic Data Sharing Policy: Implementation Announcement
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has introduced strengthened security requirements for accessing and downloading data from designated NIH repositories.
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PantherBytes Blog
Unlock the Full Potential of Your Web Experience: The Power of Regular Browser Updates
In our daily digital lives, web browsers keep us connected and enable us to do our best work. Browsers do a lot of heavy lifting to keep us current and safe while online. Out of date browsers pose…
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Digital Risk Bulletin
How Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping Cybersecurity on Campuses
Key takeaways from The Chronicle of Higher Education’s virtual forum on Artificial Intelligence’s Impact on College Cybersecurity.
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PantherBytes Blog
Take Cybersecurity Seriously When Working Remotely
It’s Home Office Safety & Security Week! If you’re working from a home office or a public location some or all of the time, there are special cybersecurity considerations to keep in mind. Take an…
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PantherBytes Blog
Picking the Right Microsoft Organizational Tool
From Post-It Notes and hand-written lists to advanced project management tools, people use a lot of methods to organize their work and complete projects without tasks falling through the cracks…
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Success Story
How the University of Pittsburgh Streamlined Security Data Processing with Cribl
Pitt Digital successfully transitioned to a new security system, Microsoft Sentinel, within 68 days. This change was facilitated by Cribl tools, which helped organize and manage security data…
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PantherBytes Blog
Tech Support for Every Resolution
Whether or not you like New Year’s resolutions, setting goals and pursuing self-improvement is an important part of personal growth. Here in Pitt IT, we know that a little bit of tech can make a big…
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PantherBytes Blog
Tech-Savvy Ways to Spend Winter Break
Winter break is the perfect time to unwind and recharge, but it can also be a great opportunity to check off some tech-related tasks. Whether you're looking to learn something new, organize your…
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PantherBytes Blog
Keep Tech Safe in Winter Weather
Skiing and snowboarding at Seven Springs. Ice skating at PPG Place. Building snowmen or going sledding in the backyard. … Or shoveling the sidewalk, clearing off the car, and praying for roads that…
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PantherBytes Blog
Conquering Finals Week with Tech
Ah, the thrill of finals week—a rollercoaster of cramming, late-night study sessions, and an alarming spike in caffeine consumption. But fear not! Students can prepare for the final stretch using an…
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PantherBytes Blog
Supercharge Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Copilot
At the University of Pittsburgh, technology isn’t just about making tasks easier—it’s about making them accessible to everyone. Copilot for Microsoft 365 (M365), now available for faculty and staff…
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Success Story
Pitt Business Graduates with a Customized Graduation Certification Dashboard
Graduation is a pivotal moment for students, marking the successful completion of their academic journey. Ensuring that all graduation requirements are met is a crucial task for university staff, but…
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PantherBytes Blog
Adventures in Holiday Shopping: Christmas Movie or Horror Film?
The Setting:Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday are all happening in the next week. Freshly recovered from their Thanksgiving food coma, people are logging on or…
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In the News
Pitt Pilots New AI Program PittGPT
Since its rollout in November 2022, OpenAI’s ChatGPT has sparked widespread discussions about its potential impact on education and learning. Recognizing its growing use in academic settings, Pitt IT developed PittGPT, a version tailored specifically for the Pitt community.
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In the News
University of Pittsburgh Providing 'PittGPT' to Students and Faculty as Part of Pilot Program
Joseph Yun, a research professor of electrical engineering and an architect of PittGPT, said that the university did this because tech companies, like OpenAI, charge a large amount for their enterprise-designed versions.
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PantherBytes Blog
Tech We’re Thankful For This Thanksgiving Season
As Thanksgiving rolls around, it's natural to start reflecting on all the things we’re grateful for, including the tech that helps us get through life a little easier. Whether it’s powering through…
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PantherBytes Blog
Career Development: Boost Your Skills and Connections
November is National Career Development Month, making it the perfect time to focus on building your professional skills and connections. As you reflect on your career, it’s important to adopt a…
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PantherBytes Blog
A Guide for Protecting Your Peace Online
This election season has been intense, sparking heightened conversations on campus and across social media platforms. While staying informed is important, protecting your mental health and well-being…
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In the News
In-House Pitt Version of ChatGPT Being Tested as Pilot Program
At its monthly meeting on Oct. 28, the Senate Computing and Information Technology committee was briefed on a transition from one business intelligence report-writing tool to another as well as a pilot artificial-intelligence service being tailored for the Pitt community.
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Success Story
Revolutionizing the Annual Budget Letter Process
At the University of Pittsburgh and in technology, innovation is a way of life. Recently, Pitt IT partnered with the Office of Budget Operations (OBO) within the Controller’s Office to transform…
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PantherBytes Blog
Lessons to Help You Catch Phish
Phishing attacks can come in various forms—emails, texts, or social media messages. Click, respond, or otherwise give your personal information to hacker, and your system, data, and money are in big…
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PantherBytes Blog
Duo Multifactor Authentication: Your Safety Sidekick
Even with strong, unique passwords for every account — and let’s face it, many people just rotate through a handful of passwords while using standard security questions — hackers manage to break into…
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In the News
Pitt and Carnegie Mellon Are Collaborating With NVIDIA to Launch Its Inaugural AI Tech Community
Pitt Chancellor Joan Gabel and Carnegie Mellon University President Farnam Jahanian celebrated Pittsburgh’s role as an AI Tech Community by signing a ceremonial memorandum of understanding with…
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PantherBytes Blog
Stay Up-to-Date on Updates
One of the easiest ways to boost your cybersecurity is to keep your software and apps updated. Every day, developers are looking for clues that hackers are trying to break into their systems. They…
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In the News
Pittsburgh Steels Itself for Innovation With Launch of NVIDIA AI Tech Community
NVIDIA’s Joint Center with the University of Pittsburgh for AI and Intelligent Systems will focus on computational opportunities across the health sciences, including applications of AI in clinical…
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PantherBytes Blog
Unlock the Code to Win the Password Game
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which is a great time to level up your security game! While we’re all familiar with the classic advice to "create unique and strong passwords," keeping track…
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In the News
Pitt IT’s John Duska Named Top 100 Accelerated CISOs Award Winner
John Duska, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for the University of Pittsburgh, has been recognized as a Top 100 Accelerated CISO Award Winner, a prestigious honor that highlights emerging…
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In the News
Students Receive Sextortion Scams in Their School Email
Pitt has been affected by recent sextortion scams targeting students through their University email accounts. Pitt Digital issued warnings and guidance on how to protect themselves from these scams —…
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PantherBytes Blog
Email Etiquette 101: Ensure Your Emails Are Read
Let’s be real — emailing professors or colleagues can feel like throwing a paper airplane into an abyss. Crafting a clear, professional, and respectful email can help ensure that people read and…
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PantherBytes Blog
5 Tech Considerations for Working or Studying at Home
Gotta love technology. It lets us study, meet, or work wherever we happen to be – whether it’s on campus, in a public space, or at home! Hybrid and remote environments are the norm for many people…
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PantherBytes Blog
Tech Lessons From My Summer Internship
Happy fall Panthers! My name is Grace Brignola, and I am a rising Junior studying Marketing and Business Information Systems here at Pitt. I serve as a Tech Ambassador for the University, which gives…
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PantherBytes Blog
Take Steps to Protect Yourself From the National Database Hack
It was recently revealed that a background check company has been hacked, and the information of almost 3 billion people is now available on the dark web for the right price. National Public Database…
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PantherBytes Blog
Discover the Tech Go-To Spots @ Pitt
Welcome to the University of Pittsburgh, Panthers! As you settle into campus life, knowing where to find the tech resources that will support your academic journey is essential. Here’s a guide to…
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PantherBytes Blog
How to Get Your Life Done in the Student Computing Labs
Navigating the daily hustle and bustle of life as a commuter can be overwhelming. With the constant movement between home, campus, and back again, finding a space that offers both comfort and utility…
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PantherBytes Blog
OneNote: Your Notetaking Power Tool
Taking notes… we all need them. From classes or meetings, to projects and research, summarizing content and action items is important for retention, review, and collaboration. Some people are nuts…
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In the News
KeystoneREN Now Providing University of Pittsburgh With 100G Internet2 Connectivity, Robust Redundancy
Pitt has partnered with KeystoneREN to enhance its connectivity with a new 100 Gigabit Internet2 connection. This upgrade supports the University's growing network demands, improves redundancy, and strengthens cloud service connectivity. The initiative aligns with Pitt Digital's commitment to innovation and fiscal responsibility, achieving annual cost savings of $75,000 while advancing research and educational capabilities through a robust and scalable infrastructure.
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PantherBytes Blog
Maximize Your Productivity with Microsoft Planner
Are you struggling to keep track of your assignments, projects, or group work? Microsoft Planner, available to all University of Pittsburgh students, faculty, and staff as part of the Microsoft 365…
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Success Story
Automation Transformation in Research Accounting
The University of Pittsburgh manages a massive $1.2 billion in research and other externally sponsored activities annually, comprising nearly 40% of Pitt’s total operating revenues and sustaining…
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PantherBytes Blog
Creating the Perfect Canvas Course: Student Perspective
As an instructor, you play a crucial role in shaping the academic experience of your students. One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is Canvas, the learning management system used at Pitt…
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PantherBytes Blog
IT Checklist for Incoming Pitt Students
The move or return to campus can feel overwhelming. But with a little planning, your move-in can be a lot easier. Use our IT Tasks timeline checklist to make sure you get connected.
1–2 Months in…
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PantherBytes Blog
Incoming Panther Series: Must-Have Apps at Pitt
Whether you're a new student or returning for another year, having the right apps on your phone and computer can make your life at Pitt a lot easier. Here’s a rundown of the essential apps you should…
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PantherBytes Blog
Safe Computing at Pitt - Your Guide to Staying Secure Online
It's crucial to prioritize the security of your digital life. Cybersecurity threats are real and ever-present, but with the right practices and tools, you can protect your personal and academic…
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PantherBytes Blog
Incoming Panther Series: Quick-Start Guide
Welcome to the University of Pittsburgh, Panthers! This quick-start guide will help you get started using the essential computing resources you’ll need for a successful experience at Pitt. Let’s get…
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PantherBytes Blog
Incoming Panther Series: Unpack Your IT Perks
Welcome to Pitt, future Panthers! As you embark on this exciting journey, we're thrilled to introduce you to incredible IT perks designed to support your academic and campus life. From staying…
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PantherBytes Blog
Panthers in Tech: Andres Vasquez, Assoc. Account Manager, Google
Get to Know Andres VasquezAndres Vasquez, a Class of 2024 graduate of the College of Business Administration, majored in Business Information Systems and Marketing, with a certificate in Business…
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PantherBytes Blog
Planning Scam-Free Summer Fun
With temperatures getting warmer, you may be looking forward to relaxing at a sandy beach or excited to explore a new city abroad. But travel scams can make summer more stressful than…
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Success Story
Connecting Communities to Care: The Pitt Vaccine Hub's Journey of Innovation and Service
The Pitt Vaccination and Health Connection Hub collaborates closely with Digital to integrate advanced technology solutions, such as a custom-built vaccination management system, enhancing efficiency and accessibility for patients. This initiative not only streamlines the vaccination process but also supports community health through preventive care and educational opportunities for health discipline students.
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PantherBytes Blog
Elevate Your Summer with Learning
As the summer sun rises and the academic year is in your rearview mirror, it's the perfect time to embark on a journey of self-improvement. Whether you're a student thinking about your next semester…
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PantherBytes Blog
6 Essential IT Tools for Researchers
Advances in research computing have propelled Pitt to the forefront of research, with the University ranking third nationally in NIH funding in FY23. Researchers utilize robust technology to collect…
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PantherBytes Blog
Summer Teaching with Pitt IT
The spring semester has ended, and for many students and instructors, that means a well-earned break from classroom activity. For others, the summer term is just gearing up. In fact, between all the…
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Success Story
Preventing Fraud at the Front Door
Signing up hundreds of participants to complete a research survey in just a few days is something that most researchers only dream of. One group at Pitt did just that after offering a $10 Amazon gift…
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PantherBytes Blog
Embrace the Heat: Summer Classes at Pitt
As the temperature rises and the days stretch longer, many students are gearing up for a well-deserved break from the school year. But for those who crave intellectual stimulation and want to get…
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In the News
A Dell Technologies Gift Will Provide Pittsburgh Medical Researchers With Expanded Computational Power
Dell Technologies donated a high-performance computer system to Pitt's Innovation Hub for Health Science Medical Research, which will expand researchers' ability to develop personalized diagnoses and…
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Success Story
From Runners to Research with DocuSign
The Office of Sponsored Programs' transition to DocuSign has streamlined research administration, cutting down on paper use, improving efficiency, and supporting remote work. The digitization of processes not only enhanced speed and transparency in grant approvals but also contributed to sustainability efforts and improved efficiencies.
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Success Story
From CyberCamp to Cybersecurity
When every click and keystroke can seemingly open the door to hackers, the role of cybersecurity is more critical than ever. At the forefront of this digital frontier is Pitt senior Kevin Fung, an…
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Success Story
University of Pittsburgh Leverages Esri Resources to Teach Modern GIS
As geographic information system (GIS) technology continues to attract growing interest among students and employers, higher-education institutions must find ways to keep curricula on pace with…
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Success Story
SCI Reviews Requirements with Graduation Dashboard
Graduating is a significant milestone in a student's life, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. At Pitt, ensuring that students can smoothly transition from students to…
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PantherBytes Blog
Tech Tools for Managing Your Academics
Managing your academic demands can be a challenge. Unlike high school, you have much more control over which classes you take, how you organize your time, and when and where you do your work. That’s…
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PantherBytes Blog
Swaying to a Better Presentation
I recently discovered Microsoft Sway, and I have become a believer. I don’t mean to knock PowerPoint, but PP presentations can be static, stale, and boring. Sways, on the other hand, are dynamic…
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Cybersecurity Awareness
Cybersecurity Target Acquired: Local Teens
Coordinated through the Institute for Cyber Law, Policy, and Security (Pitt Cyber) and Pitt Information Technology, CyberCamp is based on the Air Force Association CyberPatriot curriculum. For Pitt…
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PantherBytes Blog
Pitt Collaborates to Provide Free Wi-Fi to In-Need Communities
Monday, Nov. 9, 2020 In a historic collaborative effort, Meta Mesh Wireless Communities, Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh, and the Keystone Initiative for Network-Based…
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PantherBytes Blog
Zoom Meetings: Etiquette and Best Practices
With the sudden shift to online classes and working remotely, many in the University community are learning to host Zoom video conferences on the fly. Here are some tips to ensure a positive…
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