Popular Tools, Software, and Applications
Find support and documentation for these popular tools used when working remotely:
VPN (Cisco AnyConnect)
Some services, such as accessing your home or shared drive, require VPN. A VPN is a "virtual private network" that creates a secure connection to the UI network and Cisco AnyConnect is the software used to connect. For personal computers, find instructions on downloading and configuring Cisco AnyConnect to get started with VPN access. For managed machines, find instructions on downloading and configuring GlobalProtect to get started with VPN access. Find more support for VPN (Cisco AnyConnect and GlobalProtect).
Please note: Two-Step Login is required to complete your VPN login. During login, you will see a “Second Password” field where you need to type “push”, "phone" or "sms" to complete your login using your preferred method. Find more information on how to log in to the VPN with Two-Step Login.
Two-Step Login with Duo
Many UI services and webpages, like ICON, HR Self Service, etc., require using Two-Step Login to complete your login. We recommend the Duo Mobile app to complete logins. Find information about Two-Step Login and switching to the app.
Video Conferencing Tools
The university uses Zoom, Skype for Business, and Microsoft Teams for video conferencing. Learn more about using these video conferencing tools for your remote, online meetings.
Using any web browser, access your email by logging in to https://office365.uiowa.edu (use HawkID@uiowa.edu in the username field). Find instructions on how to use Outlook on the web for Office 365.
You can also use the Microsoft Outlook application. Outlook should already be installed on your university-owned machine. If you are using your personal machine, learn how to install Outlook. You can also get Outlook on your phone.
With the larger email quotas provided with Office 365, you may want to move mail from your .pst files (personal folders) to your Office 365 account. This allows you to access all of your email no matter what computer you are using.
Microsoft Office
- If you need Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, etc., you can access these via the web at http://office365.uiowa.edu/
- If you are using a university-owned machine, Microsoft Office products should already be installed. If you are using your personal machine, you can install Microsoft Office using these instructions.
Antivirus for home use
Recommended free antivirus programs for your home computer.
LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning is an online training library that provides access to thousands of online courses on productivity, web design, graphic design, photography, programming, coding, and more.
Remote Desktop
Remote desktop allows you to log in to your campus computer from another computer off-campus. Most people will NOT need to use remote desktop access. If you do require access to a service that requires remote desktop, read these instructions on how to configure a Windows computer for remote access and instructions on how to use screen sharing to connect to your Mac. Test access from off-campus before you need it. Connect to the VPN first before using Remote Desktop. Find more support for Remote Desktop.
PowerUp
With this tool, you can remotely wake up your work computer from off-campus.
Mobile device instructions
If you’d like to stay connected to work using your mobile device, here are some helpful instructions:
- Connecting to email and calendar on your device
- Download Skype for Business on your mobile device
- Get ICON on your device with the Canvas app: