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University Technology Services

UTS

Technology Resources for McMaster Students

Learning remotely? We’ve got you covered. Developed in partnership with the Student Success Centre, this page is the place to find recommendations, tips and resources for online security, University-provided software and more to support your online learning!

Getting Started

Expandable List

These basic tools are essential for all McMaster students.

All students are provided a Gmail account for official McMaster correspondence.

MORE INFO

Your MacID allows access to McMaster resources and learning applications, such as Avenue to Learn, Microsoft 365 and library services. MacID is not the same as your student number—a 9-digit, numerical code.

For frequently asked questions, support and more information about MacID:

faqs

Mosaic is McMaster’s administrative information system, which includes student finances, administrative components and job postings. The administrative components encompass student admissions, class enrollment, some Registrar Office services and academic advisement.

mosaic

All students have access to use and download Microsoft 365 for web and desktop. Microsoft Word, Teams, PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote and more are available.

For download, quick-start guide and support:

 Microsoft 365

Student-specific training sessions for various 365 applications are also available.

Sessions

Avenue to Learn (often called A2L or Avenue) is a learning management system for students and instructors. Here you can see course information, assignments, instructions, lecture slides and discussions.

For support, tips and more information:

support

The use of the McMaster VPN is only intended for students working and learning outside of Canada. To access many McMaster resources, such as email and Mosaic, some students outside of Canada may need to use a VPN.

VPN connection

Online Learning Tools

WEB AND VIDEO CONFERENCING TOOLS

McMaster has three recommended web and video conferencing tools for students. The specific video conferencing tools will be specified by the instructor. Some instructors may require the use of some or all of these tools.

Microsoft Teams is a highly collaborative platform and allows students to host and participate in video conferences, share and edit documents together and engage with rich chat functionality. All students can access Microsoft Teams through their Microsoft 365 license. Student-specific training sessions for Teams are also available.

Download

Webex is a secure video conferencing application where students may be participants but cannot host video conferences. You can join video conferences from your browser.

 MORE INFO 

All eligible McMaster faculty, staff and active students now have access to licensed accounts. In some cases, users may need to make an additional request to obtain a zoom license. You can use Zoom on a laptop, smartphone or tablet through your browser or app.

ACCESS ZOOM 

While licenses are available for the campus community, UTS strongly recommends that students, staff and faculty members use Microsoft Teams for any sessions or interactions containing sensitive information. Students can view a ‘Features & Use Cases’ comparison table here, which shows the strengths, accessibility and security levels of each McMaster-provided web and video conferencing tool. 

ADDITIONAL TECH RESOURCES

These additional tech resources will allow students to maintain their access to McMaster tools from online.

Students can access UTS computer labs anywhere with internet. Currently, the Virtual Desktop service has a capacity of 330. When you are finished using these services, please promptly logout so others can access resources. This service is available 24/7

HOW TO JOIN

LinkedIn Learning is an on-demand learning platform to help learners gain professional, technical and career skills. All students have access to LinkedIn Learning and do not need a LinkedIn profile.

ACCESS

Echo 360 is a free, active learning and lecture-capturing platform that allows students to view content, take notes, and discuss.

SIGN UP

McMaster’s libraries are dedicated to providing students with research and learning resources, expert help and friendly service as it moves online. Many resources have increased remote access, such as e-books, journals, databases, along with off-campus access to computers.

LIBRARY

Drive Recommendations

As you pursue your studies this term, you will be using your personal devices for course work more than ever. McMaster’s IT team has identified the following minimum technical recommendations to run key online learning tools. Students should check with their department or Faculty for specific program needs.

Some programs may require higher performing devices, so students should refer to their faculty, department, or program for more specific device recommendations.

 

Requirement

Windows

Apple
Operating system Windows 10
Catalina (or latest)
Web browser Firefox or Google Chrome
Firefox or Google Chrome
Screen resolution
1024 x 768
1024 x 768
Webcam
640X480
640X480
Processor Intel Core i5 or higher Intel Core i5 or higher
RAM/Memory 8 GB 8 GB
Hard drive
 256+ GB 256+ GB
Wireless 802.11 BG
802.11 BG
Headset
 USB or Bluetooth with built-in mic
USB or Bluetooth with built-in mic

IT Security

With an increase in online work, there is an increase in cyber threats. Email phishing and malware attacks are on the rise. Learning about these threats and why creating strong passwords are an important security measure to keep you safe.

Information Box Group

Email Phishing

Don’t take the bait. Stay up to date on email phishing tactics used by criminals. Many phishing emails will try to lure you by clicking a link, downloading an attachment, or giving up personal information. Identify phishing scams, Report suspicious emails to is-spam@mcmaster.ca and Delete the email from your inbox and deleted folder.

IT Security: Learn More

Password Tips

Passwords should be Long, at least 8 characters. They should be Complex and not contain common dictionary words or names, while also using a mix of numbers, upper case, lower case, and symbols. Use a Unique password for your MacID that is separate from other accounts. Your password should also be Secret—never share it with anyone.

IT Security: More Tips

Accessibility

McMaster maintains its commitment to accessibility as students shift to online coursework. Find out how to use accessibility features for online learning tools below.

Information Box Group

mcmaster building

Accessibility Hub

McMaster’s Equity and Inclusion Office has resources on accessibility for web and video conferencing tools.

Accessibility: Learn More
people looking at computer

Accessibility Webinars

Learn about accessibility features of Microsoft 365, such as Word and PowerPoint.

Accessibility: Sessions