Frequently Asked Questions

About U-M Online

What is U-M Online?
U-M Online is a package of computing services that the University offers to alumni, retired faculty and staff, and others affiliated with the University.

Who can join U-M Online?
U-M Online is currently available to
- U-M alumni and their spouses and same-sex domestic partners (SSDPs)
- retired faculty and staff and their spouses and SSDPs
- spouses and SSDPs of current faculty, staff, and students
- other sponsored affiliates

Can my children join, too?
No. Dependent children of alumni, faculty, staff, students, retired faculty and staff, and other affiliates are not eligible to join U-M Online.

How do I connect to U-M Online?
Connect to the Internet to connect to U-M Online services. As long as your Internet service provider offers full access to the Internet, you will be able to connect to U-M Online services.

How do I pay for U-M Online?
You can use any of the following major credit cards (sorry, no checks or cash):
- American Express
- Discover
- MasterCard
- Visa

Can I have a personal Web page?
Yes. In fact, you can have a personal Web site with multiple pages. Your U-M Online subscription includes 10 GB of Institutional File System (IFS) storage space, and you may purchase more if it’s needed. You can use this space to publish your web pages. See the "Publishing Your Web Site Using Your Home Directory" section of the document, Using Your IFS Home Directory Over the Web with mFile, for more detail.

What is a uniqname?
A uniqname (pronounced "unique name") is like a user ID or user name and is part of your e-mail address. You use it to identify yourself when you log in to U-M Online services.

Does U-M Online membership include use of the Campus Computing Sites?
Yes. The Campus Computing Sites are available for use by U-M Online subscribers and other alumni as seats are available. You are welcome to use a Sites workstation when you're visiting campus. However, we ask you to be sensitive to the workstation needs of students during busy times such as exam week.

Does U-M Online membership include use of Virtual Sites?
No. Virtual Sites is a limited resource that is rationed only to U-M students, faculty, and staff.

Do I get computer help when I join U-M Online?
U-M Online has consultants available to help you install your U-M Online software or to connect to U-M Online. Be sure to identify yourself as a U-M Online member when you contact the consultants. You can get help the following ways:
- Phone a consultant at 734-647-MICH (734-647-6424).
- E-mail a consultant at umol.help@umich.edu. You will get a response within 24 business hours.
- For account-related problems, contact the Accounts Office. Phone the office toll-free at 888-UMONLIN (888-866-6546) or send e-mail to itcs.accounts@umich.edu.
- Review the U-M Online User Guide.

What kind of computer do I need for U-M Online?
For best results, your computer should be able to run the software included on the Blue Disc. See the Blue Disc Web site for minimum requirements.

What online U-M Library resources can I get with my U-M Online membership?
It depends on the service. The Library has site licenses from many different vendors that provide online services. Some vendors require that the Library restrict the use of their services to current faculty, staff, and students; others do not. For more information, please see the University Libary home page and Borrowing Privileges for U-M Alumni and Guests.

Where can I get more information or ask questions?
4-HELP consultants and the staff of the Accounts Office can help you. See Getting Help for details.