We are excited to announce an upcoming upgrade to our computing infrastructure, which includes updates to individual Windows laptops, MacBook notebooks, and shared workstations across our campus. This upgrade is a significant step toward enhancing our technological capabilities and ensuring a superior computing experience for everyone.
For individual users of Windows Laptops and MacBook Notebooks:
As the primary users of these devices, it is crucial for you to be proactive in backing up your essential data.
Data Backup Recommendations:
For Ringling College Staff members, check with your supervisor to ensure you are saving data to the appropriate locations.
Utilize available Home Space and/or Google Drive secure cloud storage. Note that these are not unlimited storage, so if you have questions about storage space IT can help you make sure you back up the right data to a suitable location.
For Chrome and Firefox users we highly recommend enabling the Sync feature to backup bookmarks, history, passwords, settings, and preferences automatically.
Responsibility:
Each user is ultimately responsible for ensuring their data is backed up before the scheduled upgrade.
Confirm that you have completed your data backup.
For Supervisors of people using Shared Workstations:
Shared workstations pose unique challenges due to multiple users. Please coordinate with your team and ensure that all users have backed up any important data stored on these devices.
Verify with your team that all necessary files and documents stored locally have been backed up or transferred to a secure location prior to authorizing the hardware upgrade
Notification:
Provide a suitable time window when the upgrade can be executed without disrupting departmental operations. The upgrades for shared workstations can take 1.5 - 3 hours to complete.
Assistance and Support:
Our IT support team is here to assist with any questions or concerns regarding the backup process or the upgrade itself. Contact the Help Desk at 941-359-7633 or support@ringling.edu for any additional support.
Your timely cooperation is invaluable in ensuring a smooth transition to our new hardware. With your help we can mitigate downtime and provide a smooth upgrade.
Best regards,
Institutional Technology