Working Remotely

The University requires faculty and staff (including student employees) to use Boise State’s VPN service when connecting remotely to University resources.

Boise State VPN provides security when connecting to University networks (such as your “R: drive,” “H: drive,” or “fircreek1”) and systems so you can work remotely as if you’re on campus.

VPN also helps to protect your data when connecting to unknown Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, or coffee shops.

Duo Security multi-factor authentication is required to log in to VPN (and other key University applications and systems).

Please note that you are subject to the University’s Remote Access policy when using VPN.

• Learn how to install, configure, and access Boise State VPN
• Learn how to use Duo Security

Connect remotely to a Windows desktop or laptop computer from your home computer with Remote Desktop. (Note that Boise State VPN is required to use Remote Desktop.)

• Learn how to install and use Remote Desktop

University faculty and staff must agree to Telecommuting Guidelines and submit a Telecommuting Request form to receive official permission to telecommute.

• Telecommuting at Boise State

• If you use public WiFi you are required to use the Boise State VPN to secure your connection when accessing university data or systems.
• Please keep in mind that other devices on your network will impact your speed (e.g., if a family member or roommate is uploading files, streaming Netflix, or playing online games). If you do experience network issues, check with your Internet Service Provider. Contact the Help Desk if needed.
• Mobile apps for Microsoft Office, Canvas, Google Workspace, and Zoom are available for free from iOS and Android app stores.
• Staff and faculty may install Microsoft Office on up to five devices, including phones and tablets.
• Most wireless phone service providers offer personal hotspot service to be added to wireless plans to create a WiFi network from a smartphone. This option can also provide greater WiFi range. Check with your carrier for details.
• The Help Desk can assist you with setting up a hotspot if needed; contact us at (208) 426-4357, helpdesk@boisestate.edu, or chat online.

Some software programs you use at work may also be downloaded to your personal computer for working remotely.

The following are applications available for installation on personal devices (some restrictions may apply):

• Microsoft Office
• Mathematical and Statistical Software

You can submit a request to the Help Desk to have your line moved from a desk phone to a softphone.

A softphone lets you make and take calls from your computer or mobile device whether you are on campus or off campus.

Learn more about Webex softphones.

Be sure you know your voicemail password to remotely access voicemail.

You can forward calls to your personal phone number via Cisco CallManager.

• Learn how to configure and access voicemail
• Learn how to forward calls to another number

If you forward your extension to a long distance phone number your department or area will be billed for long distance costs.

Also, you make work calls from your personal phone, consider dialing *67 before a phone number if you want to mask your personal phone number when contacting others.

Technology makes it easy to reach out by phone or text at any time. In some cases, there may be legitimate reasons to communicate quickly. However, be sure to respect boundaries.

Not every message or issue is urgent.

It’s challenging for people working in non-traditional settings. Be patient if you do not get an immediate response to messages.

• Protect your computer, identity, and privacy. Be sure your computer has antivirus software and learn how to protect yourself on the web.
• Install pending updates and patches. These address identified security vulnerabilities, some of which may be active exploits.
• While working from home, do not store confidential University data on any personal devices. Please make sure that University computing devices are only accessed by you and not family members or guests.
• Contact the Help Desk at (208) 426-4357 or helpdesk@boisestate.edu to report any cybersecurity issues, or to learn more about options for using University data.

Google Workspace is the official group collaboration software for Boise State University students, faculty, and staff.

Google Workspace provides access to dozens of Google applications including Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, Google Sites, and YouTube.

• Learn how to access and use Google Workspace at Boise State

Several platforms are available for video/voice/chat conferencing when working remotely.

• If your computer does not have a built-in camera, you can also use an external USB camera for video conferencing.
• Have a set of earbuds/headphones (especially ones with a built-in microphone) for attending online courses and meetings.
• If your computer does not have a built-in microphone, use an external device such as a USB microphone or headset.
• Close other programs and limit streaming/large downloads while you work. Other programs on your computer may consume processor or network resources. Try disconnecting or limiting use of other non-essential devices on your network.

Zoom

Zoom makes it easy to share screens and host real-time video conversations, host live web broadcasts, and record to a computer or cloud for easy sharing. In addition to laptops and desktops, Zoom chat and video conferencing apps are available for iPhone, iPad, or Android.

A phone conference line is included with your Boise State Zoom account, making it easy for participants to join meetings using a phone.

• Learn how to access and use Zoom at Boise State

Panopto

Panopto provides features for live webcasting, screencast recording, and live discussions. Capturing a lecture with Panopto is as easy as opening a laptop and clicking “record.”

• Learn how to access and use Panopto

Camtasia Studio

Camtasia is a familiar tool for recording screen activity, voiceover narration, and video from a camera or webcam. The editing capabilities of Camtasia are more advanced than those of Panopto, but less technical than full-featured video editing software.

Camtasia Studio licenses are available to faculty and staff at no charge.

• Learn how to access and use Camtasia Studio

Google Meet

Create, join, and participate in video meetings with up to 250 people using Google Meet through Boise State G Suite. Hangouts Meet is available for all devices.

While you can invite as many people as you want to join, you can’t have more than 250 people in a Meet at once.

• Learn how to access and use Google Meet at Boise State
• Tips for better Google Meet calls from home

When working remotely, awkward posture or an improper setup may increase the risk of injuries caused by poor ergonomics.

Here are some tips to help:

• Use a good chair. If you don’t have a good chair, add pillows for back/leg support.
• Raise or lower your chair so your shoulders are relaxed with the elbows around 90 degrees (or use a pillow or seat cushion if needed).
• Support your feet on an object if they don’t firmly touch the ground while sitting.
• Raise or lower your monitor (or put it on top of an object). The top of the monitor should be at or slightly below eye level.
• If possible, your monitor should be separated from your keyboard and mouse. If you raise your laptop, consider using an external keyboard and mouse.
• Take short breaks for ergonomic exercises and stretches as recommended by the National Institutes of Health.