You should read the University's Information Security Guidance for Home Working. It has clear guidance on "Dos and Don'ts" that you should follow.

Informatics guidance on data security is now on the Informatics Computing Hub".

We also have advice on VPNs (including the our OpenVPN service) and remote working.

  • If you have been issued a University supported device then you should use that as a secure option.
  • When using a machine you do not manage (in an internet cafe, for example):
    • You must avoid accessing sensitive data on such a machine.
  • When using a home machine that you share with others:
    • You must use a separate user account that other individuals have no access to.
    • You must avoid accessing sensitive data if other users of the computer can gain access to your files.
    • You should keep software up-to-date, enable automatic security updates, and use antivirus software.
    • Even if you act safely and securely, the other users may not.
  • Avoid downloading work data to your local device.
    • Microsoft Office 365's web interfaces can be used to access email and documents without downloading data to your device.
  • Consider using a VPN (for example our OpenVPN service), particularly if you are using wireless in a public place. Public wireless points are often less secure than those at home or within the University.
  • You should enable encryption of data stored on your device, especially on portable devices.

We recommend reading the University's Information Security pages in full.

Last reviewed: 
21/08/2025