The University provides a range of tools and services to help you work effectively on or off campus. Below you’ll find guidance on how to access email, collaboration tools, storage, and specialist applications remotely.

 

Communication & Collaboration

Microsoft Outlook logo University email

Your University email is now available in Microsoft Outlook, which replaces Gmail. To access your email, go to office.com and sign in with your University credentials. Once signed in, select the Outlook icon from the app launcher. You can also install the Outlook desktop app on Windows or Mac for the best experience.

For further instructions, please visit the Working with Outlook article.

Microsoft Teams logo Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is the University’s platform for chat, calls, video meetings, and collaboration. To access Teams, go to office.com and sign in with your University credentials. From the app launcher, select the Teams icon. You can also download and install the Teams desktop app on Windows or Mac for the best experience.

For further instructions, please visit the Working with Teams article.

Zoom logo Zoom

Zoom can also be used for conducting online meetings and teaching. We recommend you deploy Zoom from the Start menu.

To access Zoom in a browser, navigate to Zoom (https://port-ac-uk.zoom.us/) and sign in with your University credentials.

For further instructions, please visit the Zoom article.

 

Storage & File Access

OneDrive logo OneDrive

OneDrive is the recommended place to store your personal University files. Files are backed up to the cloud and available on any device.

To access OneDrive, go to office.com and sign in with your University credentials. From the app launcher, select the OneDrive icon. For Windows 11 users, this is the default storage location on staff devices and can be found in File Explorer.

For further instructions, please visit the Working with OneDrive article.

N and K drives

Your N drive is your own personal network storage area, and the K drive is a place to store departmental documents accessible to others. If you are connected to the University VPN you can access both the N and K drives.

Guides on connecting to your N and K drive can be found on the Staff File Storage article.

 

Remote Access Tools

GlobalProtect VPN logo VPN (Virtual Private Network)

The VPN allows you to securely connect to the University network from off-campus locations. Connecting to the VPN gives access to certain intranet services as if you were on campus.

Please note: University laptops come with the VPN installed under Start > Palo Alto Networks > GlobalProtect.

You can find instructions on how to download and use the VPN for different devices in the GlobalProtect VPN article.

Company Portal logo Company Portal

The Company Portal is used to install University-approved software and manage University devices. Through the portal, you can access applications, check device compliance, and ensure your laptop or mobile is set up securely.

To open the Company Portal on a University-managed device, go to Start > Company Portal. It is also available as a mobile app from the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. For more information, see the Company Portal guide.

AppsAnywhere logo AppsAnywhere

AppsAnywhere is the University’s app store, allowing students and staff to download software for study and work. Most applications are available anytime, on and off campus.

To access AppsAnywhere away from campus, open a browser and navigate to the AppsAnywhere login page (https://appsanywhere.port.ac.uk).

Discoverer

Discoverer is a reporting tool for Student Records.

If you need to access Discoverer while off campus, please complete the Request Discoverer VPN Access form.

 

Telephony (Staff Only)

Online Staff Directory (VPN required if accessing offsite).

If you wish to use your desk phone number when working remotely, there are several options, each of which can be requested using the Telephony request form:

  • Cisco Webex – an all-in-one communication tool for video, instant messaging, voice, voicemail, and conferencing. Available on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. See the Webex Softphone article.
  • Single number reach (3-ring divert) – diverts to your mobile after 3 rings (management approval required as additional charges may apply). See the Single number reach article.
  • Cisco Self-care Portal – manage personal telephony options, such as voicemail and simultaneous ringing, via the Cisco Self-care Portal.

 

Support & Training

Digital Skills

The Digital Skills team can continue to support your training needs remotely. Contact digitalskills@port.ac.uk with your requirements. We can:

  • Offer remote 1-2-1s or group sessions on subjects covered in our standard courses.
  • Provide LinkedIn Learning resources tailored to your needs.
  • Pilot remote delivery of some courses via Microsoft Teams.

See the Staff IT Training article for more details.

Centre of Academic and Digital Innovation (CADI)

The CADI team supports teaching both on and off campus. The eLearning Tools site provides:

  • Tips for remote teaching
  • Ideas on delivering lectures and seminars online
  • Guidance on developing and adapting assessment and feedback

Need Help?

Contact the Service Desk: