Student Help Desk

Call 804-524-2000 or 804-524-5210

The Student Help Desk is purposed to service the students of Virginia State University who may be experiencing computer-related issues.

Student workers, who are supervised by members of the staff, run the Student Help Desk. Some of the services offered include:

  • Installing Microsoft Windows patches
  • Scanning for and removing Viruses 
  • Scanning for and removing Ad-ware and Spy-ware  
  • Troubleshooting dorm room connectivity issues 
  • Assistance with VSU accounts and passwords
  • Installation of Operating Systems With System Disk Provided by Student

Please note that the following services are not offered:

  • Installation of Non-VSU software 
  • Replacement of any hardware 
  • Advanced Data Recovery

Service Desk Location Open: Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00 pm  

Call 804-524-2000 or 804-524-5210

Located: Johnson Memorial Library B45

Submit a Request

There are several Open Access Labs on campus. Open Access labs give VSU students the ability to use University computers to complete class work assignments and work on projects.

  • Johnston Memorial Library, Room B25-B26 - Opens Sunday @ 3:00 p.m. and closes Friday @ 6:00 p.m.; Saturday open 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

  • Singleton Hall, Rooms 230, 308, and 308 – Open 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday

  • Hunter McDaniel, Room 22E – Open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

  • Engineering Building, Room 102 – Open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

The Pharos printing system is a fee-based printing system that allows the students to print within the lab computers. This printing service is only available in Johnston Memorial Library and Jessie Bolling Building. The cost is .05 per black and white page and .25 per color page.

PHAROS INSTRUCTIONS:
  • Select the document to print.
  • Go to the Pharos Print Station
  • Log into the Pharos Print Stations using your University Network credentials.
  • Select the document to print.

Here is a list of Pharos printers on the VSU Campus:
  • Black and White | On the 1st Floor of Johnston Memorial Library
  • Color | On the 1st Floor of Johnston Memorial Library
  • Black and White | In the 24 Hour Computer Lab in the basement of Johnston Memorial Library
  • Color | In the 24 Hour Computer Lab in the basement of Johnston Memorial Library
  • Black and White | On the 2nd Floor of Johnston Memorial Library
  • Black and White | In Rm 103 in JB Bolling

Computer Specifications suggestions

Most computer brands are acceptable, based on the need of performance, and data storage. Should you need further assistance with picking the right system for you, please contact our Technology Services department for further assistance.

Basic Recommendations for your system:

Windows Systems: Laptop
  • 64 Bit Windows 10 Operating System or higher
  • At least 8GB of Ram (the more, the better)
  • Minimum 256GB Solid State Hard Drive
  • Intel i5 dual-core or better processor
  • Integrated graphics
  • A dual wireless network card that supports 802.1ac, or 802.11an or 802-11g
*****Bringing a Laptop allows for portability, and a space saver. You may be able to bring your laptop to class for note taking, working outside, battery operated and have the ability use to our wireless systems in all campus building facilities. *****

Windows Systems: Desktop (With Limitations) *
  • 64 Bit Windows 10 Operating System or higher
  • At least 8GB of Ram (the more, the better)
  • Minimum 256GB Solid State Hard Drive
  • Intel i5 dual-core or better processor
  • Integrated graphics
  • A dual wireless network card that supports 802.1ac, or 802.11an or 802-11g
*****A Desktop is Not recommended, but you are more than welcomed to bring one. It consumes space, it’s not portable, requires a plug and power to operate and requires a monitor to be attached. *****
Macintosh (MAC)
  • macOS Sierra (OS X 10.13) or higher
  • Minimum 256 Solid State Hard Drive
  • Intel i5 dual=core or better processor
*We Recommend a MacBook Air with a 13” display or a MacBook Pro with largest screen and hard drive you can, within your budget*

What NOT Recommended:

As we do not want to discourage you from obtaining a system that you would like to use, It’s not recommend to purchase a Chromebook for your needs at our University. The operating system does not support may software programs that you may want to install over time such as Anti-virus software protection, Microsoft products and many other software platforms. This may change in the future, but as of now, it will not provide you with the academic needs for accomplishing goals while at our university.



Before arriving to VSU, pack your computer in its original packing material, if available, along the with purchase agreement, warranty information, and software CD’s/DVD’s that may have accompanied your computer system. In addition, bring all manuals and operating system information. All of this will help you, should your computer need to be serviced while at school. Copies of applications and utilities will also be helpful.

VSU lab computers do not support storage of any personal files. If you plan to work on University computers, use a USB memory sick. These can be purchase from more stores that sells computers or computer peripherals as well as the Virginia State University Bookstore.