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New to Western? Here’s Your Tech Starter Guide

Written by: Elena Kresovic, Western Continuing Studies Diploma in Marketing
Photo by: Western Communications

Starting at Western means learning a lot of new things at once. Where are your classes? And why does Duo keep popping up when you try to log in? 

Western Technology Services (WTS) supports the technology you’ll use throughout your time at Western. Whether you’re setting up your devices before your first class or trying to figure out where to go when something isn’t working, knowing a few basics now can save you time later. 

Here are the most important technology tools and resources to get familiar with as you start the year. 

Get Connected to Western Wi-Fi 

When you’re on campus, connect to Western’s secure Wi-Fi, uwosecure-v2, using your Western Identity (email and password). Never connect to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, especially when accessing banking or personal information. 

Get to Know OWL Brightspace 

OWL Brightspace is where you’ll access your courses and find announcements, readings, assignments, course materials, and updates from your instructors. You can download the Brightspace Pulse app to access OWL from your phone and keep up with your courses while you’re on the go. 

The Brightspace Help website has guides and resources if you get stuck. 

Set Up Duo — and Add a Backup Device 

You’ll use Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) throughout your time at Western to access campus services. MFA adds an extra layer of security by asking you to verify that it’s really you trying to access your account. 

Download the Duo Mobile app for the simplest way to authenticate. You can also add a backup authentication method or second device, which can be especially helpful if you lose access to your primary device or are travelling outside Canada.

Stay CyberSmart 

University means a lot of new adult experiences. You’re accessing new bank accounts, receiving unexpected emails, looking for jobs or housing, and sharing information with different departments and services. 

That can create opportunities for scammers. Students are often targeted because they may be unfamiliar with financial, legal, and university processes. 

Completing your required CyberSmart Training is a great place to start. The training helps you recognize common scams, protect your personal information, and make safer choices online. 

Give It Six Seconds 

Here’s an easy habit to take with you throughout the year: the 6-Second Rule. 

If an email, text, call, or DM feels suspicious, give yourself six seconds before responding. Don’t click the link right away. Don’t send the requested information. Instead, pause and ask yourself: 

  • Was I expecting this? 
  • Does this request make sense? 
  • Can I verify it somewhere else? 

If you’re unsure, contact the official source directly using an email address, phone number, or website you already know is legitimate. Those few seconds interrupt the instant reaction scammers count on and give you time to make a safer decision. 

Missing Something? There’s a Catalogue for That... 

Need software for a course? Looking for information about your Western email? Not sure what technology services are available to students? 

Before spending too much time searching, check the WTS Service Catalogue. It brings together the apps, services, and technology solutions available through WTS. Even if you don’t need it today, it’s worth bookmarking now so you know where to look when you do. 

Know Where to Go When You Need Help 

You’re not expected to troubleshoot every technology problem yourself. Here are the key contacts to keep on hand: 

Western Technology Services (WTS) 

You don’t need to master every Western technology tool before your first day. Start with the essentials, know where to find help, and give yourself time to get familiar with the rest. A little preparation now can make navigating technology at Western much easier throughout the year. Welcome to Western! 

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