The following computer system requirements are recommended for accessing UNSW Library's electronic resources.
Internet browsers
Supported browsers
Recent versions of these web browsers are supported:
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Safari
- Microsoft Edge
For mobile phone compatibility, students should use Uni-Verse (the official UNSW mobile app) when searching the Library collection.
Browser settings
- Scripts enabled
- Cookies enabled
- Cache cleared
- Pop-up windows enabled
- Foreign language characters enabled
- Bookmarks should not be used because URLs are regularly changed by suppliers and many are subject to redirects, session IDs and authentication details
- Some browser add-ons may cause conflict - disable temporarily and check if this restores functionality
- For browser tools to help you access resources when off campus see search tools and plugins
Authentication and security
Security software / firewall restrictions
Access to UNSW Library's electronic resources may be prevented by Internet security software on personal computers (e.g. Norton Internet Security, Symantec) OR firewall restrictions at a non-campus location (e.g. your workplace). This may be indicated by the following type of error messages:
- Access denied
- The requested item could not be loaded by the proxy
Turn off the software temporarily and check if this restores access. Contact your IT consultant for assistance.
Usernames and passwords
UNSW staff and students sign in to UNSW Library Login screens with your current activated UNSW staff / student zID number and zPass. Contact IT at UNSW if you do not have your login details.
Other Library membership groups sign in to myLibrary with your current Library membership ID and password. Contact us if you do not have your login details.
When off campus you will be prompted with an initial login screen that requires your UNSW staff / student zID number and zPass. UNSW Library supports single sign on and your off-campus authentication credentials will automatically be applied to myLibrary.
You may need additional resource specific usernames and passwords to access some resources. Resource access login information will appear in a new tab/window when you select the relevant link under View it on the Library collection record. Login details and passwords are for UNSW individual use only and must not be shared or bookmarked. Authentication details are subject to change.
Some client and membership groups are not eligible for University wide authentication and are therefore currently unable to access some resources and systems requiring a UNSW staff / student zID number and zPass.
UNSW VPN
In order to replicate on-campus access to Library resources, UNSW staff and students will need to connect via the UNSW Library Resource VPN URL address. This is not available via the general or group based access VPN addresses. For more information on using the Library Resource VPN, step by step connection guides and support see UNSW VPN Service.
Need more information?
For more information see the checklist and alternative options for accessing Library online resources.