Whether you are preparing to migrate to a new computer, use multiple devices, or work off campus frequently, the following steps assist you in effectively ensuring your data and settings are retained.
Move your files to the cloud.
When you're switching between the office and home, it’s vital that you can access your most current files from any location, on any device.
OneDrive
Transfer your files to Pitt’s Microsoft OneDrive cloud service so that you can access files conveniently. This also provides a effective backup in the event a device is lost, unable to boot, etc.
One of the more challenging aspects of working from home, on other devices, etc, is making sure your files are synced between devices allowing you to always be working on the most recent copy. Working on files that are saved in the cloud eliminates that concern. In addition, if you sign into Microsoft 365/Office cloud applications with your University account, it will automatically sync the files that you’re working on to your OneDrive account.
Endnote Online Sync
To synchronise your library:
- From within the EndNote Desktop program, click on Library and then Sync.
- Follow the instructions to sign up for an account for the online version. If you already have an EndNote Online account, enter your e-mail address and password for your EndNote Online account and press OK.
Save your Pitt passwords in a password manager.
Working from home means you’ll have to sign into the resources you need from a new computer. Because your devices are not confined to a locked University office, it is recommended that you do not allow Google to save your passwords.
To make sure that you can access all of the web- and server-based services that are critical for your work, use Pitt Password Manager (LastPass) to save your passwords. This way, you only have to remember one master key for easy and safe logins.
Install needed software.
If you are not using a managed Pitt device, You can use Microsoft 365/Office Online by connecting to the Office 365 portal with your University credentials. From there, you can download them onto your machine, if your department participates in the Microsoft Campus Agreement.
You should speak with your IT and administration groups about any other software or local clients that you use that should be loaded onto the machine that you will be using from home. Some software can be found in the Software Download Service for your use on personal devices. Managed devices can find available software by using the Software Center (Windows) or Self Service (Mac OS).
Configure your phones.
To keep open lines of communication while working remotely, we use Microsoft Teams. You can install that application on your cell phone or laptop.
If your Multifactor Authentication (Duo) currently calls your office phone for logging in, change your settings so that it contacts another device, such as your cell phone. If your cell phone does not have the Duo app installed, download and configure it onto your device.