Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): a flexible and sustainable way to study at Deakin
You may have noticed Deakin has transitioned away from general desktop labs across all campuses and has replaced them with BYOD-enabled learning environments, where you can bring and use your own device.
This change supports more flexible, sustainable and digitally enabled study and reflects how most learning now happens.
What’s changed
General desktop computer labs across Deakin campuses have been taken offline. You can now bring your own laptop or device to classes where learning activities and assessments are delivered.
This transition applies only to general computer labs. Specialised labs and discipline-specific facilities are managed separately, in consultation with teaching teams.
Why Deakin is making this change
This transition supports Deakin’s long-term commitment to sustainability, equity and future-ready education.
- New spaces support flexible, collaborative and digitally enabled learning
- Students consistently tell us they prefer using their own device to learn and collaborate
- General Computer Lab usage data shows declining reliance on desktop computer labs
- Most learning tools and platforms are cloud-based and device-agnostic
- Removing fixed labs reduces energy use and e-waste.
What you need to do
Bring your own laptop or device for learning activities and experiences, as well as for private or group study on campus.
Check your device is ready
Your device will need to meet Deakin’s minimum computing requirements so you can connect to Wi-Fi, access CloudDeakin and use tools like Microsoft 365.
Don’t have a working device and need support
It is a requirement of study at Deakin that you have access to a laptop or suitable device. However, we believe no student should miss out on learning experiences due to financial stress.
Deakin offers a range of support, including:
- Discounted education devices and lease-to-own options
- Short-term loan laptop program
- Financial assistance, including interest-free loans or an assessment for additional support
Explore support at financial support or contact Student Central.
Exam and assessment information
If your unit previously used a general computer lab for assessments or exams, alternative arrangements will be communicated by your faculty or the Exams team. Students will receive updated information about locations and requirements closer to the time.
Devices on campus
A number of Windows-based PCs will remain available in all Deakin libraries.
If you forget your device, your battery is flat, or your laptop isn’t working, Deakin will commence offering a Laptop Loan Program, providing short-term access to laptops through secure, self-service lockers on campus in the library. Loans range from 4 hours to 7 days.
Getting connected and set up
If you’re new to Deakin or using a new device, IT Help provides clear guides to help you get started, including:
- Getting started with your Digital Essentials – Personal Windows Computer (PC)
- Getting started with your Digital Essentials – Personal MacBook
- How to connect your device to eduroam Wi-Fi
- Getting started with Digital Essentials will explain how to access your Deakin account, including email and calendar
- Load your free Microsoft 365 Account – Windows and MacOS
- Software previously available in general computer labs has been reviewed to ensure compatibility with student-owned devices. Students can:
- Download the required software via the Software Library , or
- Access applications virtually through Apps and Desktops Anywhere.
Get help if you need it
IT Help can support you with:
- Connecting to eduroam Wi-Fi
- Setting up Microsoft 365
- Accessing CloudDeakin and learning systems
- Troubleshooting common device issues
Visit IT Help to access Knowledge articles, lodge a support ticket, or call IT Help.