Guide to Working from Home

Owned by Martin Keen
Last updated: Apr 24, 2024 by Emily Carver
3 min read

Introduction

When working from home, you still have access to your emails and files.  There are 2 different set ups you can use; which will suit you, will depend on your circumstances.

Requirements

  • Your home computer should use a current version of Windows 10; or macOS 10.13 (High Sierra), or higher.
  • An internet connection (the faster the better).
  • For some methods you need to be able to install software on your home computer.
  • You may also need to apply for additional services


 Quick and Simple

Quick and Simple

If you just need email, Microsoft Teams, and occasional access to your files, then you can use your web browser; no setup is required. Don't forget to bookmark the pages for easier access next time.

  • Access email and your calendar Via webmail - https://outlook.office.com/
  • Download files from your network drives via Web SFTP. Once you download a file, you can work on it on your home computer. Then upload it back using the Web SFTP once you have finished revising it.
  • You can access Microsoft Teams via a Web Interface here: https://teams.microsoft.com/ - see our Teams FAQ for more information on logging in and how to use Teams.

Remote working is even easier if you have your files in Microsoft One Drive or Drop Box. Then you can work on your files from any computer or mobile.

 The Full Home Setup

The Full Home Set up

If you would like to be able to use your home computer like your work computer, then the following set up is the best for you:

Accessing Emails, Calendar, Contacts

Install and configure a full copy of Microsoft Office:

1 Install Office 365 Pro Plus

If you don't have a recent version of Office on your home computer, then use the University Office 365 subscription for staff and students to install Office on your home computer for free. See our Office 365 guides.

2 Configure Outlook

Once you have Office installed, you will need to configure it to connect to your email account. See either Configure Outlook on a Home Windows PC or Setting Up Outlook on a Mac Device

Accessing Files and Systems

Next, set up the VPN.  The VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows your computer to connect to the Clinical School network, giving you full access to network storage and other systems. 

1 Apply for VPN

First, please apply for VPN access via the form on our website. While at your work computer, you should also make a note of your network drive paths as in the first section here: Mapping a Network Drive via VPN - Windows or Accessing Network Files via VPN - macOS

Please note that this service is available for free to those with a CSCS user account and network connection.

2 Install VPN Client

  Next, Install the client on your home computer according to the instructions Installing the VPN Client on Windows or Installing the VPN Client on your Mac.

3 Connect the VPN

Once the VPN is installed, you can connect whenever you need to access the Clinical School network.

4 Connect to your network drives

Once the VPN is running, you can connect to your network drives using the paths that you made a note of earlier. See Mapping a Network Drive via VPN - Windows or Accessing Network Files via VPN - macOS

For further assistance, see our page on How to Use the VPN for ideas on how to get the most out of it.