The following resources for working remotely are available to UC Berkeley staff. Students and instructors have access to many of the services listed here but should also visit the Research, Teaching and Learning website(link is external) which provides resources and best practices to support remote learning.
It is important for you to test your equipment setup at your remote worksite, and also test access to the campus resources you will need. See our reference guide if you need to order equipment.
- Computer – you have access to a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer. Don't forget to install software(link is external) you may need.
- Microphone – this is often built into your laptop or computer. You may use an external device such as a USB microphone or headset, these recommendations(link is external) are from Zoom, Berkeley's video conferencing tool.
- Webcam – like the microphone, a camera is likely already built into your laptop. An external USB camera can also be used for video conferencing, here are some webcam recommendations(link is external) from Zoom.
- Internet – either commercially provided (e.g. Xfinity/Comcast, EarthLink, AT&T, etc.) or a wireless hotspot through your mobile phone. Make sure your device and Wi-Fi router are 802.11ac/Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 capable for the best connection. Learn more about how to troubleshoot your slow internet speed(link is external) | View some off campus internet options
- Connect –setup and test your bSecure VPN(link is external) to connect to the campus network allowing you access to the various systems and applications (e.g. Blu, BearBuy, BFS, etc.) you may need to do you your work from home. Once the VPN is set up, test access to the applications you use regularly.
If possible, set up your equipment prior to actually needing to work remotely. There are some parts of the setup process that may require access to your office on campus or are made easier by being on campus. Use this checklist(link is external) to set up an ergonomic workstation.
Procurement Process
- Computers – If you do not have computer equipment at home that meets the standards listed above, please discuss options with your supervisor. IT Client Services can assist in purchasing new laptops, submit a ticket(link is external) and our team will work with you to acquire one. Please be patient as inventory and shipping times change on a daily basis.
- Other peripherals and accessories– If you need to order and ship minor peripherals and accessories to support teaching or other essential activities to a faculty or staff member's home, you can work with a PCard holder in your department or Regional Support team to place orders using Berkeley's Amazon Business Account(link is external). The Amazon Business account has the advantage of allowing for delivery to a nearby locker service to prevent porch piracy. If you have not used this service before and you have a Berkeley procurement card, please follow these instructions(link is external). You can also email creditcard@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail) for help setting up a new account.
