Getting started with Desire2Learn (D2L - new DSO)

The following essential steps will help you to successfully access, log in to and use the new DSO.

1. Activate your Deakin username and password
Go to the Passwords page to activate your Deakin username and password.

2. Set up your computer
Ensure your computer meets the recommended computer standards.

Note: You must use a supported browser for certain areas of DSO to function properly. This can be downloaded from the Deakin University Software site or installed from the 'Software Essentials' DVD. Staff who have a Phoenix desktop please check your Phoenix Software Catalogue.

3. Access the new DSO login page 
Go to http://d2l.deakin.edu.au

4. Do a browser check by following this link:
Please click here for a System Check before you log in.


If you receive all ticks, you can successfully access the Desire2Learn environment within the new DSO.


If you receive a cross for any area, go to the appropriate link below and follow the instructions:

PC Users

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Mac users

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Please take the 5–10 minutes that it will take to set up your computer, so that your experience of using DSO during the semester is as smooth as possible.

5. Login to the new DSO
Type your User name and Password, then click OK.

6. Access your unit
The My Sites widget on your home page gives you access to the units you are enrolled in that use DSO. Click on a unit (e.g. unit code TRI-1_2010) in the My Sites to go to the learning environment for that unit.

If the My Sites widget does not include all the units in which you are enrolled, please check your enrolment details through StudentConnect or by contacting the Faculty student support office on your campus.

7. Navigate DSO
Go to How to navigate your unit in Desire2Learn for information on accessing the DSO Homepage, and navigating components and tools that may be found in your unit.

Further notes:

1. If you are accessing DSO from work, please go to Information for Deakin Studies Online (DSO) users connecting via a corporate network for technical information to assist the IT Administrator of your organisation in providing access to DSO.

2. If you continue to experience problems after configuring your browser software settings, it may help to clear cache and cookies.

3.Recommended 'Discussion' settings for Desire2Learn (new DSO).

If you are still having technical issues that you are not able to resolve, please contact the IT Service Desk

Please check FAQs for answers to some of the most common queries about using DSO.