Features and Updates

Fall 2026 Technology Updates

Stay up to date with important technology changes, resources, and support available to the TWU community this fall.

Key Technology Updates

Microsoft MFA Changes
Microsoft is transitioning away from SMS text message and voice call authentication to more secure, phishing-resistant passkeys. Beginning September 2026, users may be prompted to register a passkey. Microsoft plans to retire SMS and voice authentication in February 2027. Users already using a passkey or Microsoft Authenticator do not need to take action. Users who currently rely on SMS or voice authentication should transition to a passkey or Microsoft Authenticator.

New SQL Reporting Portal
TWU is migrating its Ellucian Colleague database from Oracle to Microsoft SQL Server. Existing SQL reports will transition to a new SQL Reporting Portal in October. The new portal offers improved navigation, search, and export options while maintaining access to existing reports. Register for one of the training sessions on October 13 or October 15 to prepare for the transition to the new SQL Reporting Portal.

Storage Quotas Now in Effect
Storage quotas for Google and Microsoft 365 accounts are now in effect. Accounts that exceed their assigned limits (faculty & staff - 50GB; students - 10GB) may experience restricted functionality. Users are encouraged to review their storage, remove unnecessary files, and move content to approved storage locations. For more information, please visit the knowledge base article - Storage Quotas for Google and Microsoft 365.

New Advising Platform: Stellic
Stellic is TWU’s new student success and advising platform. Students can use Stellic to connect with academic advisors, communicate with advisors, and schedule advising appointments. Additional features, including Early Alert and Degree Audit, will be introduced in spring 2027.

AI Tools Available at TWU
TWU provides access to AI tools including Google Gemini, NotebookLM, and Microsoft Copilot. These tools can support brainstorming, drafting, summarizing, organizing information, and productivity. Do not enter TWU confidential, agency-sensitive, or business-functional data into AI tools unless using a platform with a designated secure login.

Technology Resources

OneDrive Request Files
The OneDrive Request Files feature allows you to securely collect files from internal or external individuals without allowing them to see other submissions. This feature is intended for file collection rather than long-term storage. If you expect to receive files containing PII or sensitive information, submit an IT Service Desk ticket before using the feature.

Classroom Technology Support
The TWU Classrooms website provides classroom previews, technology overviews, and how-to videos. Faculty can also get help through the Classroom Support Form, the Quick Start Guide available on instructor monitors, or the QR code on the instructor touch panel.

24/7 Canvas Support
Canvas support is available 24/7 by phone, live chat, or ticket form through the Canvas Help menu. For Canvas login issues, contact the TWU Technology Service Desk.

LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning is available at no cost to all active TWU students, faculty, and staff. It offers courses in technology, leadership, teaching, accessibility, AI, and professional development, and is integrated with Canvas and Bridge. Activate your LinkedIn Learning account and start learning today!

View the full Fall 2026 Technology Updates presentation for additional information, screenshots, and resources.

University Storage Quotas for Google and Microsoft 365 (Effective August 1)

Storage quotas for Google and Microsoft 365 accounts are now in effect as of August 1, 2026.

These storage quotas help ensure that university storage resources remain secure, sustainable, and available to support the teaching, learning, research, and administrative needs of the TWU community.

If Your Account Exceeds the Storage Limit

Users whose storage usage exceeds their assigned quota may experience restrictions, including the inability to send or receive email or upload files until storage space is reduced. These restrictions could impact your ability to communicate and work effectively.

To restore full functionality, users will need to reduce their storage usage or work with IT Solutions to identify an appropriate solution.

Need Help Managing Your Storage?

The following resources are available to help you review and reduce your storage usage:

If you have a legitimate business, academic, or research need for additional storage, or need assistance identifying the best storage solution for your files, please submit a request through the Technology Service Center.

RingCentral at TWU

Using RingCentral

IT Solutions has created and compiled customized training and resources for TWU faculty and staff to quickly acclimate and discover the features of RingCentral. Faculty and staff should review the following resources:

RingCentral Getting Started

RingCentral Fax, Text, Message, Contacts, Video

RingCentral Knowledge Base articles

What is RingCentral?

RingCentral is a fully cloud-based unified communication solution that provides both traditional telephony services, as well as modern features and capabilities necessary to foster and enable collaboration. Here are some of the features and capabilities:

VoIP-based desk phone with soft keys to set personal status, monitor extensions, and park, hold, or transfer calls.
softphone (i.e. desktop app) allows you to make and receive calls using your TWU number from any laptop/desktop or mobile device
Visually manage and listen to voicemail and easily return a call
Long distance dialing included means no more 7 digit long distance codes
Work from Anywhere – Call Flipping to transfer calls from your deskphone to your cell phone when you have to leave your desk
Collaborate Seamlessly – Ring groups and call queues can help bridge on-campus and teleworking teams by ringing a group of phone numbers simultaneously or sequentially
Live reports and call analytics now allow for real time pinpointing of RingCentral call quality issues whether on home wireless, on-campus or cellphone 4G/5G

Check out this short introductory video and see how it works.

Page last updated 1:00 PM, September 22, 2026