If the University determines that the campus is closed, and all University business will be conducted via Telecommuting. There are some easy steps to take some of the stress out of working from off campus. There is a community of support from your local IT support and University Information Technology (UIT). Bookmark the UIT GetHelp page for quick access to all the ways to reach IT Support.

The IT Support Center (helpdesk) will remain open to support you even from off campus. The helpdesk will be answering phones, text messages, email, and responding to social media.

1. The quickest and easiest way to get help is to call or text message the helpdesk at 713-743-1411.
2. You can also get real time support through chat or you can send an email to uitsupport@uh.edu and we'll get back to you ASAP.
3. Follow UIT on social media for tips and hints to be successful and to see if there are any service disruptions that might interrupt classes.
4. Latest information and the current status of all IT services including Canvas and Microsoft Office 365.
   • Download UH Go, UH's official mobile app and use the IT Support module
   • Visit the UIT website

Prepare Now by Doing the Following:

1. Go to AccessUH and log in with your CougarNet ID and password. AccessUH will tell you when your password will expire. If you can't log in or if your password is expiring in the near future go to the Password Reset Wizard and reset your password.
2. In AccessUH, click on the PASS icon () and update your contact information. The University may be sending you regular updates or instructions and you will need to make sure that we have the most current contact information.
3. In AccessUH, click on the Microsoft 365 icon () to get access to the online version of Microsoft Office and get your free copies of Microsoft products or you can use the web version of the Microsoft suite if you have an internet connection.
4. You will need to access any resources that are only available from on campus like retrieving files on campus servers or logging into a remote computer. If so, you will need to set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
5. If you need headsets or speakerphones, look at the catalog of devices you can purchase. These devices will also work with other applications such as MS Teams and Zoom.
6. OneDrive is a great tool to sync your desktop user folder to the MS cloud to access data anywhere you have internet access and a browser. Download and install the OneDrive application and start syncing your desktop files with OneDrive. This will provide redundancy in case you run into issues listed in the next bullet point.
7. When working off campus be sure to keep your data secure and your computer safe. Getting hacked, losing your computer, or being locked out by Malware will set you back a long way. Take these steps to make sure you're secure:
   1. Update your anti-virus and anti-spyware software frequently.
   2. Run a full scan on your computer once a week to detect any problems.
   3. Report any suspicious activity on your computer to security@uh.edu.
   4. Avoid giving others physical access to UH equipment.
   5. Don't leave sensitive information unattended.
   6. Logout before you walk away from your computer.

Remember, you still have support even when the campus is closed.