Bring your own device or BYOD allows you to use your personal laptop or device to access a broad range of course related applications to learn in the classroom, from home or any other location with an internet connection.
How Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) works
Laptop & desktops
Almost any desktop or laptop can be used as a BYOD to access VU's learning platforms including MyWorkspace.
We recommend the use of a laptop for learning at VU.
For new purchases, consider the size and weight of a device before purchasing a new laptop.
Smaller devices may be lighter and more portable.
Also be aware of the manufacturer warranty period and warranty conditions for your device.
Tablets & smartphones
You can use your tablet or smartphone to access VU’s learning platforms and course material, however we recommend the use of a laptop or desktop computer to use all the applications you will need to get the most out of your learning experience.
Loan devices
A laptop/notebook can be borrowed from the VU Library if you do not have access to a suitable device. Bookings are highly recommended as immediate or same day requests cannot be guaranteed. Students can still attend class if they do not have access to a suitable device.
VU offers a range of financial services and support including loans or grants for eligible students to assist with meeting the cost of studying, including the purchase of a device.
Planetary Health
University Sustainability Initiative is one of the four pillars of VU’s Planetary Health commitment.
At VU, BYOD will help to reduce power usage on campus and our carbon footprint with less dedicated computer labs and specialised hardware required for learning and teaching.
Tips for using your own device
Download antivirus & other software
- Before connecting your own device to the University network, ensure you have the latest operating system, antivirus, internet browsers and updates installed on your computer, laptop or device. You can download antivirus software for free on your computer.
- Download and install Office365 ProPlus for free on up to 5 of your devices to access a range of Microsoft products and cloud storage services like OneDrive to backup your files.
- Download VMWare Horizon Client to get remote access to the University network and applications without the need for a VPN connection.
Connect to the internet
- When on a University campus, set up and connect your device to eduroam WiFi to access the internet using the University wireless network.
- To use your device away from campus you will need to choose an internet provider to access the internet and connect to University applications from home. As the device owner, you are responsible for personal internet set-up costs and ongoing charges.
Bringing your device on campus
- Protect your device by enabling a lock screen for your device and PIN or password. There are many ways to check your password strength as well as tips for choosing a secure password to protect your device from hackers or scammers.
- Ensure your device is fully charged before bringing it to campus.
- Charging stations and power points can be found in common areas and learning spaces to charge your device if you need to.
Get help
If you need assistance connecting your laptop or device to eduroam wifi network, accessing VU applications and software or for general recommendations and advice:
- log a request online via the VU Support Hub
- call +61 3 9919 2777
- drop in to an IT support kiosk on campus with your laptop or device for direct assistance from one of our IT support staff.
Issues & repairs
IT support staff are unable to assist with hardware issues or repairs on personal computers or devices.
To get help, please contact your device supplier or seek third-party assistance.
For MAC related support, see The School Locker.
