Technology Support Center
FACULTY FAQ
What is Windows Live?
Windows Live is an e-mail client that has the familiarity of Outlook and is an integral part of the Microsoft Windows Live suite of services.
Why is the University partnering with Microsoft?
Windows Live gives students a 10 GB mailbox (100 times larger than current student mailboxes). In addition, students have 25 GB of secure online storage, integration with the University's Global Address List, calendaring, and many other services. Students will benefit from the increased mailbox and other services. The University will save significant money on student e-mail licenses and the servers and disk space required to support student e-mail.
What does "opt in" mean?
The first phase of the conversion to Windows Live is a voluntary opt-in process. This is initiated by the student at his or her convenience.
How are students notified about the conversion?
Information Services will email notifications to the students announcing the pending change. Students will be provided instructions on how to opt in to Windows Live and move their current email.
When will the conversion to Windows Live be complete?
Students will be given several weeks to opt-in to the new email system. They will have access to both email accounts for several weeks so that they have a chance to migrate their mail. The large majority of student accounts should be migrated to the new system by the end of January. During the Spring Semester, the remaining accounts will be migrated to the new system. Specific dates will be announced as the project progresses and dates become clearer.
Does this mean that the e-mail system is changing in the middle of a semester?
There is never a perfect time to migrate to a new email system. This is why students will be given several weeks to opt-in to the new system. They can choose to migrate to Live Mail when it's convenient for them.
What will my student's e-mail address be?
Student e-mail addresses will be username@mail.umsl.edu. The email address will also serve as their Windows Live ID, which will be used to access Windows Live and other Windows Live services.
Will my distribution list still work?
Yes. Exchange distribution lists will work as they do today.
What about my Listserv?
If a student is subscribed to any UMSL Listserv, it may stop delivering emails to their new username@mail.umsl.edu address. Students can go to our knowledge base at help.umsl.edu to get information on how to update their listserv email address.
Will mail sent to username@umsl.edu bounce?
No. Mail sent to any student using the username@umsl.edu will continue to be delivered until that student graduates.
How does the new e-mail system affect the campus mail delivery?
Student email will clear the Exchange architecture and be directed to Microsoft for delivery.
How is FERPA affected by the switch to Windows Live?
There is no change to a student's right to assert FERPA or to the information displayed when FERPA is asserted.
Will my students be able to reach me?
Yes. The directory information available to students via Windows Live will contain all faculty and staff information.
There are articles in our knowledgebase (help.umsl.edu) which provide specific instructions. Students are always welcome to contact the Technology Support Center at (314)516-6096.