Technology
We offer technical support for students and staff including assistance with software, devices, passwords and more. We also offer several online resources including Olds College accounts, passwords and app support.
Borrowing DevicesThe Learning Commons has a number of laptops and iPads that can be borrowed on a first come, first served basis. To borrow a laptop or iPad, bring your student ID card and ask at the front counter in the Learning Commons. | Information and Technology Services Use AgreementThis document outlines acceptable and unacceptable uses of Information and Technology services provided at Olds College |
Google 2-Step Verification
As of Oct 31, 2021, 2-step verification will be turned on for all Olds College accounts. These enhanced security measures are being put in place to comply with the requirements of our cyber insurance and to protect the integrity and data of our information technology infrastructure.
What is 2-step verification (2FA)?
2-step verification adds a second layer of security to your online accounts by requiring a an additional method of authentication separate from your password. This ensures that even if your password is compromised, there is an additional security check in place preventing access to your account on unknown devices. This security measure is used by a wide range of online services including email accounts, online banking, Apple ID, social media accounts, ADP, and Sunlife.
When 2FA is enabled, you will be prompted for a secondary authentication method after entering your password. This can either be accomplished via text message, a phone call, an application prompt, entering a security code, or by plugging in a security key. Once this secondary authentication is accepted you will be able to login to your account.
Why do I need this?
By enabling 2FA you increase your layers of security against hacking and intrusion. This ensures that even if your password is compromised your account cannot be accessed on a new device without the secondary authentication method. On a personal level, this ensures your email, files, and content are more secure from malicious intent and loss. For Olds College, this helps protect the integrity of our infrastructure, files, and communications. In addition, this is a requirement from our insurers to qualify for cyber insurance in case of cyber crimes committed against the institution.
Make sure you are logged into your Olds College account, then click below to get started:
Enable Google Two-Step Verification
In addition, you can visit Google's 2-step verification landing page for more information:
Google 2-Step verification landing
Or visit Google's help page regarding 2-step verification:
Support article on 2-Step Verification
After enabling your 2-step verification, you can generate backup codes that can be printed and stored in a secure location, or saved to your computer in the event that your secondary authentication method is unavailable.
Do not store your printed backup codes in the open next to your computer. Just as you should not store your password next to your computer, you should not store your backup codes in the open. Secure them in a drawer, or some other secure location to better secure your account.
In addition, you can setup a variety of options for 2-step verification through Google if you do not wish to use the text message option. These options include using the Google app, or Gmail app on your device to provide a prompt on authentication, using the Google authenticator app, or using a physical security key as your second step of authentication.
How do I get my non-Google apps on my device to authenticate with my Google account?
If you use alternative email and calendar applications on your device you may experience some login issues. These can be resolved by switching to the Google app equivalent, reconfiguring your account to login with Google authentication, or using an App password generated specifically for your account.
- Switching to Google Apps
- We do recommend that you use the specific Google applications to have full functionality of your Google account on your mobile device. In addition the Google applications are rated as more secure for Google accounts, and once logged in can function as your two-step authentication method. If you prefer not to use the Google applications on your device, please try one of the below options.
- Reconfiguring for Google Authentication
- If you have already setup your Olds College accounts using a 3rd party application and receive login issues please do the following:
- Check to see if your application supports normal Google Authentication. To do this, try adding another account to the device, if there is an option to "Sign in with Google" your device supports this method. If it does not, please proceed to option two, or use the Google equivalent application (e.g. Mac Mail to Google Mail)
- If your application supports "Sign in with Google" and you are experiencing issues, remove your account from the device, then add your account using the "Sign in with Google" option. You will be prompted for your two-step verification method upon signing in.
- If you have already setup your Olds College accounts using a 3rd party application and receive login issues please do the following:
- Using an App Password
- If your device does not offer "Sign in with Google" methods you can use an App Password generated by Google to authenticate. Please follow these instructions:
- Go to your Google Account (when signed into your computer, click your profile image in the upper right hand corner and choose Manage your Google Account
- Select Security from the left-hand side
- In the Signing in to Google section, click App Passwords
- Choose Select app and choose the kind of app you are using. Select your device and then choose Generate
- An instructional window will open with the app password highlighted in yellow and device specific instructions displayed.
- If your device does not offer "Sign in with Google" methods you can use an App Password generated by Google to authenticate. Please follow these instructions:
Google's support article for signing in with 2-step verification, including these options, can be found here.
I have lost my 2-step verification device, what do I do?
If you generated one time use backup codes you can use them to access your account now. Once logged in, you can add a new device for two-step authentication to replace the missing device. In addition, make sure to remove your previous device from your account.
If you did not generate backup codes, please contact the Service Desk, 403-507-7777, for assistance.
Online Resources
Accessing your Olds College Accounts Need help logging into your OC Account for the first time? Learn More |
My Olds College View your timetable, tuition & fees, grades update your personal information and obtain tax receipts. Learn More |
Every Olds College student and employee has an Olds College email account. Learn More |
Moodle Use moodle to access all your course information, including timelines, assignments and grades. Learn More |
Learn how to utilize Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Calendar and Hangouts. Learn More |
Passwords How to access your passwords for all your Olds College accounts. Learn More |  Mobile Security Learn how to protect your identity and the security of your personal mobile devices. Learn More |
Please visit our technical support guide if you have difficulties for our self service options: libguides.oldscollege.ca/technicalsupport
Learning Commons Hours
Monday to Friday
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Please note, the Learning Commons is closed on all statutory holidays and long weekends.
Located in the Learning Resource Centre (LRC)
For service please call 403-507-7777 or email either itsupport@oldscollege.ca, or library@oldscollege.ca
