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. To submit a request for MediaTech assistance or view our 24/7/365 Solutions articles, visit: http://mediatech.rwu.edu.  

Meeting and Chatting

Microsoft Teams enables staff and faculty to chat, collaborate, and conference via audio or video.  Teams is available on the web at https://o365.rwu.edu, 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 into https://o365.rwu.edu 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 at https://o365.rwu.edu.  Please be aware that the web versions of these apps may have different functionality than what is available on the desktop versions, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with the apps in advance of 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 at https://www.adobe.com/.  Adobe Creative Cloud directions are available.

File Storage and Sharing

Microsoft OneDrive is available for file storage and file sharing via https://o365.rwu.edu, 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)

Like many organizations, RWU has implemented multifactor authentication, often referred to as 2-factor authentication, to prevent password compromises and improve account security.  When working remotely, be sure that your MFA setup will process properly while off-campus.  Employees who use their own device or were issued an Apple computer should refer to the O365 multifactor factsheets for questions and assistance.  You can also manage this authentication setup by logging into https://o365.rwu.edu and visiting the “Security and Privacy” section under the account settings.  Click on “Additional security verification” and then “Update your phone numbers used for account security”.

Employees who were issued a Windows computer should refer to the DUO knowledge base articles for general questions:

• DUO frequently asked questions
• How to setup DUO with OFFLINE account on a replaced or new phone

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 creates a secure connection between your remote computer and the campus network that identifies you as a member of the RWU community and allows you access to network resources.  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.

Directions to connect to VPN via a Windows machine. Directions to connect to VPN via an Apple machine.

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