Virtual Computer Lab

Access a Windows-based computer lab from your laptop anytime and anywhere.

The Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) provides Pamplin College of Business students with access to Windows-specific applications and programs from any location. Because the computing power runs in the cloud, it requires minimal resources from your own device. The VCL is available virtually anytime, offering flexible and reliable access to the tools you need for coursework.

We now offer an improved experience — everything is accessible directly through your web browser, with no additional software required.

Access

Access to the Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) must be requested. Once granted, access is active for 60 days. Each time you log in, your access is automatically extended for another 60 days. If you do not log in within 60 days, your access will expire and you will need to submit a new request.

Please note: any files saved locally in the VCL environment will be deleted. Be sure to save your work to OneDrive or another cloud storage location.

Request Access to VCL

Included Software

The Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) comes preloaded with software from the Virginia Tech Undergraduate Software Bundle, the Pamplin College of Business Software Bundle, and additional free software offered by the university.

Students most often use the VCL to access the Windows version of Microsoft Office 365, which includes Access and advanced features of Excel not available on other platforms. The VCL also provides Visual Studio, commonly used in BIT coursework for software development, along with many other applications.

See All Pre-Installed Software

Limitations of the VCL

The Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) is a shared service, and computing resources are allocated while in use. To ensure the best experience for hundreds of users, the following limitations apply:

Users are not administrators.
Users cannot install additional software.
Users cannot access system drives.
Users have full control over files saved to the Desktop and Documents folders (but should save long-term work to OneDrive or another cloud storage service).

Reminders

The Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) is a complimentary, shared resource — abuse will not be tolerated.
Performance may vary depending on usage and time of day.
Software has been preinstalled. Additional software must be requested by submitting a ticket at http://pamplin.help
Storage is provided with your account, but important files should be saved to a cloud service such as One Drive for Business.
Users do not have access to the C:\ drive.
You must be on campus or connect through the Virginia Tech VPN (Directions on setting up VPN)
After 60 days of non-use, access will be revoked and all data will be deleted.