Microsoft Teams: How to Work Remotely and Collaborate

Learn how to use Microsoft Teams for remote work, including video conferencing, file sharing and secure access to University of Louisville resources. This guide is for UofL employees and students who work or collaborate from off-campus. Using Teams and ITS remote work tools helps you stay productive and connected.

Microsoft Teams: How to Work Remotely and Collaborate

Before You Begin:

• You need a University of Louisville user account and password.
• Make sure your computer runs an up-to-date operating system (Windows 11, Mac 10.14 or higher).
• Install antivirus software and enable your firewall.
• If accessing sensitive data (HIPAA, FERPA, PII) use a university-owned and managed computer.
• Install and configure the UofL VPN (Virtual Private Network) for secure access to university resources.

Objective or Task:

Use Microsoft Teams and ITS remote work tools to collaborate, meet, and access university resources securely from any location.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Device

   • Update your operating system and antivirus software.
   • Enable your computer’s firewall.
   • If required install the UofL VPN from vpn.louisville.edu.

2. Access Microsoft Teams

   • Open the Microsoft Teams app on your PC, Mac or mobile device.
   • Sign in with your UofL credentials.

3. Set Up Your Team

   • Click Teams in the sidebar.
   • Select Join or create a team.
   • Follow prompts to create a new team or join an existing one.

4. Start Collaborating

   • Use Chat to message colleagues instead of email.
   • Share and edit files securely in real time.
   • Add notes, websites and apps to customize your workspace.

5. Schedule and Join Meetings

   • Click Calendar and select New meeting.
   • Add participants, set the agenda and send the invite.
   • Join meetings from your calendar, email or Teams channel.

6. Use Video Conferencing Features

   • During meetings use Raise your hand to speak.
   • Share your screen or files using the Share button.
   • React in real time with emojis and chat.

7. Secure Your Connection

   • Connect to the UofL VPN before accessing sensitive university systems.
   • Use DUO two-factor authentication when prompted.

8. Get Help or Troubleshoot

   • Contact the ITS HelpDesk if you have issues with Teams, VPN or your device.

Outcome: After completing these steps you will be able to work remotely, collaborate with your team and access university resources securely using Microsoft Teams and ITS tools.

Further Readings:

• Microsoft Teams video training 

Need Additional Help

Contact the ITS HelpDesk:
Call 502-852-7997 during business hours:
Monday through Thursday: 6:00am – 10:00pm
Friday: 6:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday: 7:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 10:00pm
University Holidays: 7:00am – 5:00pm
Closed on Thanksgiving, the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
If you have an emergency during off hours, call the HelpDesk to be transferred to an on-call technician, or leave your request on voicemail. Your call will be returned the next day starting at 7am unless you specify a time.

Live Chat:
Chat with the ITS HelpDesk at https://apps.louisville.edu/it/livechat/phplive.php during business hours.

Submit a Ticket:
Use the self-service portal at http://service.louisville.edu to log requests or check the status of existing tickets.

In-Person Support:
Visit the iTechConnect 1:1 help located on the lower level of the Miller Information Technology Center, Belknap Campus, during business hours.