Contact IT Support

 

 

 

 

m365

 

Getting Started with Microsoft 365

Work, collaborate, and create with the full Microsoft 365 suite, available to all KAUST community members across web, desktop, and mobile.

Overview

Microsoft 365 is KAUST’s unified digital productivity suite, enabling you to work, collaborate, and innovate securely anytime and anywhere. It includes familiar tools like Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive, and Loop, as well as other services such as Teams, SharePoint, and the Power Platform (covered in separate training guides).

At KAUST, Microsoft 365 is available across all devices—on your desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile—so you can stay productive whether you are in the office, classroom, lab, or working remotely.

What’s Included at KAUST

On KAUST-managed Windows Devices

  • All KAUST-managed Windows laptops and desktops come pre-installed with Microsoft 365 applications.
  • Installed applications include: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, OneDrive, Loop, Access, Visio, and Project.
  • These applications are integrated with KAUST Single Sign-On, allowing seamless access to files stored in OneDrive or SharePoint.
  • Updates are managed centrally by KAUST IT to ensure security and compatibility with internal systems.
  • Advanced tools such as Access, Visio, and Project are available for specialized users in administration, data management, and project planning roles.

On KAUST-managed Mac Devices

  • KAUST-managed Mac devices also come pre-installed with Microsoft 365 apps where supported.
  • Available native applications for macOS include: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, OneDrive, and Loop.
  • Microsoft Access, Visio, and Project are not available as native macOS applications. Web-based alternatives may be used if needed.
  • macOS users benefit from Single Sign-On and OneDrive integration for file syncing and secure cloud access.
  • Office apps on macOS offer a consistent user experience, with nearly all core functionality supported across platforms.

Access via the Web

  • Visit office.com using any modern browser (Edge, Chrome, Safari, Firefox).
  • Log in with your KAUST email address and password via Single Sign-On.
  • Use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, Loop, and more without needing to install any software.
  • Web apps support real-time co-authoring, autosave, and file versioning features.

Installing Microsoft 365 on Personal Devices (BYOD)

  • All KAUST users may install Microsoft 365 on up to five personal devices.
  • To install: visit office.com, sign in, and select “Install Office.”
  • Available for both Windows and macOS personal devices.
  • Licensing remains valid for the duration of your active employment or studies at KAUST.

Mobile and Tablet Access

  • Microsoft 365 applications are available for iOS and Android via the App Store and Google Play.
  • Key apps include: Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. Loop access is available via the Teams mobile app and Microsoft Loop web app.
  • Sign in with your KAUST credentials to sync files, calendars, and settings.
  • Mobile access is ideal for reading documents, responding to emails, joining meetings, and reviewing shared content on the go.

Who Can Use Microsoft 365 at KAUST

Microsoft 365 is provided to all users with a @kaust.edu.sa account, including faculty, staff, researchers, and students.

  • Students have access to Microsoft 365 applications, but their email is hosted in Gmail through Google Workspace.
  • Some faculty and post-docs also use Gmail for KAUST email.
  • Service Providers with an @kaustsp.com email address also have full access to Microsoft 365.

How to Access Microsoft 365

  1. Go to office.com
  2. Click “Sign in”
  3. Enter your KAUST email address
  4. You will be redirected to the KAUST Single Sign-On page
  5. Log in using your KAUST username and password
  6. MFA will be required if off-campus or on mobile data

Note: MFA is enforced when not connected to iCampus or Uni-Fi, including residential home networks.

Getting Help and Learning More

Request Additional Microsoft 365 Services

If you need to request a specific Microsoft 365 service to support your work or collaboration needs, please use the links below:

For help choosing the right tool or if your request is not listed above, contact the IT Service Desk via VITA.

Top 5 Tips for Working Smarter with Microsoft 365

  • Use OneDrive for secure cloud storage
  • Collaborate in Word and Excel in real time
  • Leverage Loop for team planning and coordination
  • Install mobile apps for flexibility on the go
  • Use Outlook rules and folders to organize your inbox

 

FAQs