The academic break is around the corner and many in our community will soon be packing bags, booking flights, and heading out to recharge. Before you switch to travel mode, take a few minutes to review these technology tips so everything works smoothly while you are off campus.

Before You Go

• Update and restart your Windows devices. 
  It only takes a moment and can help you avoid unexpected issues while traveling. Once a Windows update pop-up appears, please follow the instructions and restart your device to apply the updates while you are on campus to ensure continued access to your device during your travel. 

• Check your VPN access.
  Test your connection using the instructions on the Access KAUST VPN page. KAUST now uses Cisco Secure Client, and the new client will install automatically the next time you connect through https://vpn.kaust.edu.sa .
• Verify DUO two factor authentication.
  DUO is required for many KAUST services, including VPN. Confirm it is set up correctly before your trip, especially if you recently changed phones. For more information, read: DUO at KAUST — Protection for All Your Digital Services . You may also follow the step-by-step setup guide: DUO Mobile Setup Guide .
• Review your mobile data and roaming settings.
  This helps you avoid unwanted roaming charges when you arrive at your destination.
  
  For KAUST business lines:
  Roaming bundles may be activated when needed and with departmental approval. Activation codes are available on the Telephone & Voice Services page.
  
  For personal lines:
  You can manage your line or activate roaming through:
  • Mobily website: https://www.mobily.com.sa/wps/portal/web/personal
  • Mobily apps:
    App Store (iOS) | Google Play (Android)
  • The Mobily kiosk in the lobby of the IT Building (Building 14)

Make Life Easier While Travelling

• Install or update KAUST Central.
  KAUST Central provides quick access to bus schedules, campus updates, and essential KAUST services. Download it at: https://KCQRcode.kaust.edu.sa .
• Set up KAUST Softphone.
  KAUST Softphone lets you take your business line with you so you can make and receive calls using your KAUST extension on your phone, tablet, or laptop. Learn more: Introducing the KAUST Softphone .
• Install Microsoft 365 apps on your mobile devices.
  Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Microsoft 365 apps are available on iOS and Android for secure access to your work from anywhere.
• Install Google Workspace apps on your mobile devices.
  Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Calendar are also available on iOS and Android. All KAUST community members can use both Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, although your primary email, storage, and collaboration platform depend on whether you are a student, faculty member, or staff member.
• Use OneDrive or SharePoint for your files.
  Cloud storage ensures secure and reliable access to documents wherever your travels take you. Learn more: Collaborate and share documents .
• Use recommended KAUST apps while travelling.
  HR Connect, SAP Mobile Start, and Concur help you stay organized on the go. For setup instructions, see the KAUST Mobile Applications Setup Guide .

Need Help While You Are Away

Even when you are off campus, support is still available.

• Visit the KAUST IT website: https://it.kaust.edu.sa
• Chat with VITA, the IT virtual assistant
• Call the IT Service Desk at +966 12 808 0910

We hope you have a wonderful and relaxing break. Safe travels and enjoy your time away. If you need anything, we are only a click or call away.