Service overview
McGill's computer labs provide computing resources in support of learning, scholarship, and creative endeavor at McGill University.
McGill IT Services supports computer labs and other open-access computers in over 100 locations across the University. The following units and Faculties offer computer labs supported by IT Services:
- McGill Libraries
- Faculty of Arts
- Desautels Faculty of Management
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- School of Continuing Studies
Computer labs are situated in convenient locations throughout the University. Using McGill's computers, you can access these and other services:
- Microsoft 365 apps
- OneDrive (cloud file storage)
- uPrint (campus printing for Students, Faculty, and Staff)
- Many of our licensed software products
Who can use it
Many computer labs are accessible to anyone with a valid McGill ID; others are accessible only to members of a specific faculty or students registered in a particular course within their faculty.
How to request & access the service
You need a valid McGill Username and McGill Password to log into the computers in the labs.
Cost
Most lab services are free or are covered under student fees. However, some labs may have printing charges and/or membership fees, which should be verified with the host department.
Availability
In general, computer labs are available Monday through Friday. Hours vary by location. Where building security permits, some labs are accessible 24 x 7.
Frequently asked questions
How do I log into the lab computers?
You will need to use your McGill Username and Password to log into the lab computers.
Can I remotely access a lab computer?
Yes. See Remotely accessing computer labs.
Who can use the computer labs?
Access varies with each lab. Check with individual labs. You can use Computer Finder to locate a computer workstation in a McGill Library.
Where can I get help with a problem or question?
If available onsite, you should seek help from the lab consultants located in each lab. IT Services supports certain labs; see the Support section below for details.
How can I check my printing charges?
See the Cost section of the uPrint (campus printing) service description.
Best practices & policies
- All users of McGill computers and equipment are advised to read and abide by the Policy on the Responsible Use of McGill Information Technology Resources.
- Do not use the lab computers' hard drives to store files. Instead, upload your work to your personal OneDrive cloud storage space, or to a USB flash drive.
- Save your work often.
- Always log yourself out of lab computers before you walk away.
- As a general rule, computer labs do not allow food or drinks of any kind.
- Individual computer labs may have additional restrictions/policies for usage. These are posted onsite.
Training & documentation
None available.
Support
McGill IT Services supports computer labs in the following units and Faculties:
- McGill Libraries
- Faculty of Arts
- Desautels Faculty of Management
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- School of Continuing Studies
For support at these labs contact the IT Service Desk
Computer labs in other areas are supported by their host unit.