Independent Distance Learners (IDLs): IT Essentials

You will need your Heriot-Watt username and password to access all Heriot-Watt resources and services off-campus, e.g.:

• Office 365
• Canvas
• File Storage
• Eduroam/WiFi
• Library resources

Multi-factor authentication is a secure additional login process. It protects you and Heriot-Watt University from unauthorised access to your account, which may occur if you only use a username and password.

If you need to reset your password, use this link

The email service used by HW staff and students is Microsoft Office 365.

You can download the latest version of Microsoft Office onto your personal devices.

EndNote is reference management software. You can store reference details, and then if using Microsoft Word you can insert citations into your work and it will automatically format the reference list at the end. This guide has more information on EndNote and how to access it. Skills Hub webinars are available, or contact your Liaison Librarian for more advice.

Some specialist software for your studies may only be available on Heriot-Watt networked PCs on campus. Keyserver allows you to remotely log in to these computers so you can access this software from your own computer.

Details of other free software that may be of interest.

You can access your home directory (HDrive) on any on-campus PC and off-campus via the Heriot Watt Virtual Private Network (HWVPN).

You have access to your HWU OneDrive through Office 365. Your OneDrive gives you 1 TB of storage space in the cloud.

eduroam is the WiFi network used at many institutions around the world. Click here for information of where eduroam is available.

Click here for details of how to to connect to the Heriot-Watt network at participating institutions.

This is the Heriot-Watt Virtual learning Environment (VLE). Here you will find your learning materials for taught courses.

Details of HWU password criteria and link to reset your password if required

Multi-factor authentication is a secure additional login process. It protects you and Heriot-Watt University from unauthorised access to your account, which may occur if you only use a username and password.

Log-in with your HW username/password and you will have access to the student or staff portal, where you can access many of your HWU services in one place.

Our Campus libraries, resource centres and student PC labs have various print, copy and scanning devices (multifunctional devices - MFDs). Find out more about lab locations, devices, print quota/costs/top ups and wifi printing.

Details of any known issues with Heriot-Watt systems or resources

The Student Wellbeing Service has put together some lists of mobile apps which you may find useful for supporting your studies.