You don’t have to be at work to read your e-mail. You can use Outlook Web App (OWA), a secure Web interface that enables you to access your Outlook mailbox from any network connection anywhere in the world. While OWA doesn’t offer all the Outlook tools you’re used to, it provides the basic functionality you need to read your e-mail, view your calendar, or look up contacts.
How To Use OWA
From any Web browser, go to https://owa.ucop.edu. Type in your username and password—the same ones you use at work.
Select a Security option:
"This is a Public or Shared Computer" is used when you use Outlook Web App on a public computer. You will be logged out automatically after a short period of inactivity. Be sure to sign out when you’ve finished and closed all windows to end your session.
"This is a Private Computer" is used when you are the only person who uses this computer. Your Exchange server will allow longer period of inactivity before automatically signing you out.
Examples: If you are working on a computer used by multiple people, such as in a library or Internet cafe, select Public or Shared computer. Be advised that this option causes your session to automatically time out in 15 minutes if no activity has occurred during that time. It’s a good idea to save your work frequently, such as every 5 minutes; otherwise, when you get logged out your data will be lost. If you select “Private,” you will have more time--approximately 180 minutes--before you are logged out.
The light version of Outlook Web App includes fewer features and is used if you're on a slow connection or older web browser
Once in OWA, you can use the left-hand navigation bar to work in your Inbox, Calendar, Contacts, etc. Whatever changes you make in OWA will be reflected in Outlook. The look and feel of the new OWA is very similar to the Microsoft Outlook you have on your Windows PC. With this newer version you can filter your mail, alter your views and it includes an improved search function. Simply put there are many more options in the new OWA that provide a more complete Outlook experience.
When you are done, click “Sign Out” to end your OWA session securely. More information about using OWA is available on the IR&C Web site.
If you have questions about this tip or any other Outlook feature, please contact the IR&C; TechDesk at 987-0457 or techdesk@ucop.edu.
