Preparing to Switch Computers

Overview

Faculty and staff are issued new computers as the equipment is available. Due to time constraints, ITS generally does not back up every computer or perform a transfer of materials from one machine to another. Instead, faculty and staff are encouraged to take the following steps to ensure a quick and efficient transition to a new computer.

Step One: Transfer Files

ITS does not copy files from one machine to another, so you will need to move any files stored on your computer hard drive to a network or Google Drive so that you can copy them back onto your computer. ITS generally recommends that all users store files on the network or Google Drive for backup if something happens to their computer. This may be an opportunity to switch to this model.

1. In the search bar in the bottom left corner of your screen, search for and open File Explorer.
2. There are three common places where you might have files saved on your computer: Documents, Downloads, and Desktop. Any files or folders stored in these locations that you want to keep must be moved to your Home Drive (P:) or Google Drive. You may also move files to a USB drive, but ITS does not recommend using USB drives for long term storage.

When you get your new laptop, ITS will make sure that you can access your drives and can handle any questions about moving files.

Step Two: Turn on the Sync feature with your Browser(s)

You may not realize how much you rely on information stored in your browser until you use a different computer. To ease the transition, ITS recommends using the Sync feature in your browser to save your settings and bookmarks.

Chrome

1. On your computer, open Chrome.
2. At the top right, click Profile.

3. Click Turn on sync....

   • If you're not signed into your Google Account, you'll be prompted to sign in.

4. Click Yes, I'm in.

Firefox

You will need a Firefox account to enable sync. To create an account:

1. Click the menu button to open the menu panel.
2. Click the Sign In button next to Sync and save data.
   • The Firefox accounts sign-in page will open in a new tab.
3. Enter your email and click Sign up or sign in.
4. Create a password and enter your age (Why does Firefox ask?) and click on Create account
   • Take note of the email address and password you used: You'll need them to sign in.
5. Choose what information to sync. (See How do I choose what information to sync on Firefox?)
6. You will receive a confirmation email from Firefox with a 6-digit confirmation code. Use it to confirm your account.
7. Once your account is confirmed, sync is enabled automatically.

Step Three: Special Software

Create a list of any special software that you use. Your computer will have Microsoft Office, Mitel Connect, Google Drive, and Adobe Creative Cloud already installed and ready for you to sign in to your accounts. Let ITS know of any software that you might need to be installed on your new computer, and we will work to get it installed as soon as possible.

Questions? Need Help?

If you have questions or need help, please let ITS know in the Raven Solutions request associated with your new computer.