Working Remotely - General Info

Working remotely can be accomplished with an LTC laptop or with personal equipment.  Use this guide to learn the technical aspects of and ensure you follow both and follow LTC policy and procedure in regard to technical equipment usage.


Be aware that Lanier Tech strongly suggests that you segment your work device from your home network.  Typically, the easiest means to do so is to connect to the "guest" wifi network that is provided by most home routers.  This will keep your work information safe from any outdated systems on your home network.  Please note that LTC installed software will detect outdated systems and LTC may require you to update to continue to use your home network to protect LTC systems.  The LTC IT Team is not allowed to assist you in setting up your home network.  Please consult your service provider for any assistance you may need.


Whether working from home via an LTC laptop or a personal device, there are several services available.  Become familiar with the contents of the following articles and the information linked within:


Working Remotely Using an LTC Laptop

Users using an LTC laptop, whether on or off campus, must follow the Acceptable Computer and Internet Use Procedure.  All usage is tracked and must conform with the above procedure.


Before taking an LTC laptop home, perform checks to ensure all services are working properly:

  1. Login to the laptop while at work.  LTC laptops must connect to the LTC network at least once every 30 days. This can be accomplished by logging in to the laptop while on campus or by connecting via LTC VPN.
  2. Ensure One Drive is setup and functioning properly and that you understand the Basic Principles of One Drive.
  3. Ensure Microsoft Teams is setup and functioning properly and that you understand the Basic Principles of Microsoft Teams.
  4. Ensure Webex is setup and functioning properly and that you understand the Basic Principles of Webex.
  5. Read the Basic Principles of LTC VPN and make sure your VPN (currently Global Protect) is functional BEFORE leaving campus.
  6. Ensure you understand Blackboard/Bb Collaborate.  These materials are housed in the Blackboard course for Faculty.

Other important items for consideration specific to working remotely:

  • Understanding how to forward your LTC desk phone.
  • Do not dial 911 from Jabber while off campus unless no other option is available.  Use your personal device/phone at home.


Using an LTC Laptop away from campus:

  1. Connect to a network with internet access, typically over wifi.  
  2. Test your LTC VPN connection and ensure you understand the Basic Principles of the LTC VPN Service, including what LTC services require a VPN and which do not.
  3. Review the Acceptable Computer and Internet Use Procedure  once again and begin your work!
    • Note that you should only change your password while your VPN is connected.  Not doing so could cause some complications.  These can be addressed, but best to avoid them and only change your password while your VPN is connected.


Working Remotely Using a Personal Device

Working remotely using a personal device is an approved method of working remotely at LTC, with some restrictions on the handling of data:

  1. Do not access LTC services on public access computers, such as in a hotel business center.
  2. Ensure your device (PC/Mac/Tablet/Phone) is as secure as possible (basic security). 
    • Run the latest operating system on your device and make sure all updates are automatically installed. 
    • Use a unique secure password for your device.
    • Make sure your device has a screen lock within a reasonable period of time.
    • Use a good antivirus (there are several excellent free options available).
    • Logout of all LTC services when you are not actively using them.
  3. Files should be edited in place on Office 365 (via web browser) if possible, to prevent Personally Identifying Information (PII), such as student IDs, from entering possibly insecure environments, such as a home computer.  For more information, read the article regarding the Basic Principles of One Drive.
  4. When it is required that a file be temporary downloaded to a non-LTC computer to move to another resource that is available to students (ex: downloading a Webex recording to upload to a course shell), make sure you delete the file immediately after task completion.  Empty your computer trash on a daily basis so such files do not stick around longer than intended.
  5. Read and understand the basic principles of One Drive, Webex, Microsoft Teams, and Blackboard/Bb Collaborate.  Each of these tools can be used on a personal device and will not store any data locally.


Getting Help

The LTC Helpdesk is available from 8am-6pm Mon-Thur and 8am-12pm on Fri and can be reached via HelpDesk form, helpdesk@laniertech.edu or by phone at 770.533.7048.  We ask that you review all of the articles linked here (especially the troubleshooting section) before calling or emailing.  We will have all IT staff on support duty to provide the fastest response times, but you should expect to leave a voicemail most of the time as we expect a very large volume of calls and we have a limited staff.  Again, note that LTC IT Team members are not allowed to assist you with the setup of your home network.


Testing your services well ahead of time will be critical to the success of your online and work from home endeavors.  This will allow you to find issues and contact the helpdesk with enough time allowed for us to be able to correct the issue.