Review Mizzou technology abroad for information about multifactor authentication, VPN and eduroam internet access. If you will not have access to your U.S. phone number for multifactor authentication, you should set up an alternate form of authentication before you go abroad.
Cell phones
While not essential, it may still be a good idea to purchase a German cell phone to use while you are there, or unlock your American phone and buy a pre-paid SIM card. Shop around at different providers to see where you can get the best deal. The major companies include O2, T-Mobile, Vodafone and E-Plus. If you will be staying for more than one semester, you may want to purchase a phone plan with a contract. Otherwise, pay-as-you-go plans that allow you to purchase Guthaben (minutes) in bundles are your best bet. In most cases, you will only be charged for outgoing calls, which can make communicating with friends and family abroad much cheaper.
Internet access
Now more than ever, there are inexpensive and convenient options for communication via the Internet — and it is probably the cheapest way to keep in contact while overseas. In addition to internet access on campus, there is free WiFi in many cafés, public buildings and public spaces. Even larger train stations have free WiFi! If you live in student housing, there should be some sort of internet service via ethernet. You can also get a WiFi stick from a wireless carrier — though the data you have per month is limited, so pay attention.