Working Remotely
Roger Williams University IT provides technology resources for remote work, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, email access, Adobe apps, OneDrive, MFA, VPN, and security training.
Need Help?
The MediaTech helpdesk is the main contact for technology-related questions and problems.
Submit a request for MediaTech assistance or view our 24/7/365 Solutions articles.
Meeting and Chatting
Microsoft Teams enables staff and faculty to chat, collaborate, and conference via audio or video. Teams is available on the web, through the Teams mobile app, and via the desktop app (download from the o365.rwu.edu site). In order to use the video conferencing function of Teams, you will need to have a webcam and microphone for your computer or use your mobile device. Learn more about Teams.
Zoom is another popular web conferencing option available to RWU staff, students, and faculty. Learn more about your RWU Zoom account.
Access RWU Email
Log in to access Outlook on the web. You can also install the Microsoft Outlook application on your mobile device.
Access Microsoft Apps
Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other apps are available on the web. Note that the web versions of these apps may have different functionality from the desktop versions, so it's best to familiarize yourself with them before working remotely. Full-time faculty and staff may also download desktop versions of these Microsoft apps via o365.rwu.edu for use on a home machine.
Access Adobe Applications
Adobe Creative Cloud applications (including Acrobat) are available for download to two computers (i.e. work and personal) using your RWU credentials. Adobe Creative Cloud directions are available.
File Storage and Sharing
Microsoft OneDrive is available for file storage and file sharing, but may not be the appropriate choice for some data due to security concerns. Please review the University’s Data Storage Policy to help determine the best storage option for different types of data.
Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
When working remotely, be sure that your MFA setup will process properly while off-campus. RWU uses a high-security email login procedure known as Multifactor Authentication (MFA) or 2-Factor Authentication in an effort to prevent password compromise and improve account security. With this procedure you will need to set up a phone number to authenticate your account. The easiest and most flexible option is to use a cell phone, which can provide authentication through a specific authenticator app, through text message, or through a voice call. Alternately, you can set up a landline phone (office, home, or other) as a method of authentication. However, if a landline is used, you will need to be at that location when you are authenticating your account.
Employees With an RWU-Owned Computer: Please visit theDUO enrollment instruction page for details on setting up MFA.
Students or Employees Not Issued an RWU-Owned Computer: Please visit theMS Two-Factor instruction page for details on setting up MFA.
Contact the MediaTech help desk at https://mediatech.rwu.edu if you have any questions or need help setting up or using MFA while working remotely.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Please note that most RWU cloud resources do not require the use of VPN.
Services that do require the use of VPN include access to network files and Colleague.
RWU’s VPN securely connects your remote computer to the campus network, granting access to resources and verifying your membership in the RWU community. Please see the University’s VPN policy and a link to request VPN access. Please note that due to licensing constraints, a VPN application fee will be charged to your department.
Security For Remote Work
For information on security for your home PC for remote work.
Access RWU's Information Security training portal: This site provides training modules to help you identify phishing emails and best practices to avoid cyber threats while working remotely.
LinkedIn Learning Support for Remote Work
LinkedIn Learning recommends the following courses to help prepare to work in a remote environment:
Working Remotely – 1 hr
Time Management: Working From Home – 1 hr 25 min