Showing posts with label Windows. Show all posts

Upcoming Windows 11 Upgrade

by in , , , ,

We would like to inform you about an upcoming operating system upgrade for Windows campus computers. In the days following the end of our Spring term, the ITS Department will be rolling out Windows 11 to enhance the computing experience across the campus.

Windows 11 Logo

Please note that while we strive to make this transition as smooth as possible, some computers may not be compatible with Windows 11. If your computer falls into this category, you should have received a notification already.

As part of this upgrade, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of backing up your data. We strongly recommend using your campus OneDrive account for this purpose. OneDrive provides a secure and easily accessible cloud storage solution, ensuring that your important files are protected during the upgrade process.

The upgrade process will be automatic, and we anticipate a brief downtime during the installation. The estimated downtime is approximately 30 minutes; however, it could take much longer depending on the specific computer as the system undergoes the necessary updates. We understand the importance of your work, and we appreciate your patience during this period. Your computer will provide you with the option to choose when to restart and apply the update, allowing you to schedule the upgrade at a time that is convenient for you and minimizing any potential disruption to your work.

We understand that change can be challenging, but Microsoft has announced the End of Life for Windows 10 next year, and we believe that Windows 11 will bring improved functionality and enhanced security to your computing experience.

If you encounter any questions or problems with the upgrade, please contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance at (805)-437-8552 or by submitting an ITS Service Request.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work towards providing you with the latest and most secure computing environment.

Using Bitlocker to Encrypt your PC

by Anonymous in ,

Dear Colleagues,

CSUCI uses Windows Bitlocker for full disk encryption of campus owned PCs.  In the coming months, faculty and staff will receive additional communication about the need to encrypt computers that currently are not encrypted.  IT staff will work with individuals as needed to make the process as quick and straightforward as possible.

Why Encrypt?

Encryption is a technology used to protect data from unauthorized disclosure. It is the process of encoding information in such a way that hackers or eavesdroppers cannot read it.  Additionally, when your computer is encrypted all files are protected from unauthorized users in the event that your computer is lost or stolen. 

The ever increasing need for improved security requires that the campus make steady progress toward encrypting computers used by faculty and staff.  Classroom computers are currently exempt.

To prepare for encryption we encourage users to backup their important files to one of our campus supported data storage locations like OneDrive or Google Drive.   If you'd like assistance backing up, please submit an ITS Service Request or contact the Shared Services Solution Center at 805-437-8552.

Thank you for your support and continued partnership in this important endeavor.

 

 


New Jabber 12.9.1 Client Available

by Anonymous in , ,

 Dear Colleagues,

Please know that the newest version of Jabber (12.9.1) should be used since earlier versions have been found to contain security vulnerabilities.  If you are a Windows user on the campus VPN you may be able to access and install the new Jabber client from Software Center yourself.  We will also be reaching out to affected users to offer assistance.

Thank you for your attention and anticipated cooperation.

Windows 7 Can No Longer Be Supported

by Anonymous in ,

Several messages about the need to upgrade or remove Windows 7 computers were sent by ITS last year and we must now take final steps to ensure that this unsupported operating system fully retires from campus computers.  Information Technology Services cannot provide support to machines running Windows 7 after the Microsoft-mandated end-of-life deadline, January 2020.  Non-conforming computers pose a security threat to all CI computers and CI's network.

Please be advised:

  • There must be a TeamDynamix (TDx) work order ticket recorded in the Shared Services Solution Center (SSSC) requesting a review of your computer to upgrade or remove each computer assigned to you.

  • The ticket must include the plan of action (remove or upgrade your computer(s)) or include a request for exception. 

  • After January 2020 machines running Windows 7 may be administratively blocked from accessing the network.

  • If your daily-use computer is blocked from the network please respond to the TDX Help Desk ticket on record for it. If none has been created the Help Desk staff will create one for you.  ITS will work with you on the best way and time to upgrade, remove, or replace the computer.