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There have been a number of changes and improvements to the technology at VIU, so we thought we'd try to capture all of them in one place for you. If you're a returning student, these are the things that may be a little different this time around. If you're newly enrolled, this is as good a place as any to start familiarizing yourself (Once you've gone through the Student Technology Guide of course!).
How VIU Will Contact you in Fall 2026
While you're a student at VIU, any official communication will come to you through your @my.viu.ca email address. This email is created when you enroll with VIU, and follows the format preferredname.lastname@my.viu.ca. Be sure to check this email regularly for important correspondence, and use it for communication with your professors/instructors.
Learn how to access your VIU email
New Software and Where to Use it
Check back for details!
Hardware: Better, Faster, Stronger
Check back for details!
Unplugging and Plugging Back In
We've been doing a lot of work behind the scenes, too! So far we've:
- Installed a redundant internet connection across campus, vastly reducing the chances of going dark when your midterm is tomorrow
- Upgraded our server infrastructure, improving our capabilities for both current and future cloud-based services
- Replaced ~150 employee laptops, reducing faculty stress, directly leading to a higher grade for all students*
- Assessed our current Network Infrastructure to better plan for future upgrades
This work will continue as we work to make your time here at VIU focused on learning and growing, not scrambling and panicking.
*Chances this will be directly responsible for a higher grade are virtually zero. Probably.
Have Questions?
There are a number of paths available to students looking for answers to their technology questions. From self serve options to guided assistance, we're here for you.
Search the Knowledge Base
You can find plenty of answers, walk-throughs, and troubleshooting steps on our Knowledge Base.
Chat with Hopper
Also found at our Knowledge Base, Hopper is our Virtual Assistant. Hopper can help you search our Knowledge Base, provide troubleshooting, and even help you make an IT ticket if your issue persists.
In-Person Peer Support
Need a face-to-face? The IT department at VIU employs your fellow students as well. Found on the Nanaimo Library's 3rd floor, next to the Library service desk, our Student Tech Support Agents can help you with password resets, printing issues, application use, and more. Available Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, 3rd floor, Building 305, Nanaimo Campus.
Call IT
No access to the library or a keyboard? You can still call us at 250-740-6300 (Toll free 1-833-902-6301) and leave a message. We've got technicians watching for voicemails and ready to reach out if you need them. Be sure to let us know who you are, what's wrong, where it's happening, and how to reach you!