I'm getting a new computer. What do I need to do? What's different?
If you're scheduled to receive a new computer, there are several things you can do to aid in the transition from your old computer to your new one.
These steps can be broken into two major parts: Data and Software.
Data
EWU IT recommends the use of cloud-based storage for the storage of your files. Cloud storage is a way of securely storing data remotely instead of to the local drive of your computer. Files stored in the cloud are accessible from other devices making working from home a breeze, as well as limiting interruptions to your work should your computer need to be returned for warranty repair. You can also selectively share files with others for collaboration.
EWU currently use two services for Cloud Storage; OneDrive and Google Drive.
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OneDrive
OneDrive offers file syncing that automatically backs up files from specifically targeted locations on your computer to the cloud. You can then use the Sync service to download all files stored in the cloud to your newly issued PC. This is our recommended method of transferring data between old computers and new ones.
- You currently receive 1TB of storage with this service.
- For more information on setting up File Sync with OneDrive, view our support article: How do I sync files to OneDrive?
- To browse all of our OneDrive support articles, click here.
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Google Drive
Google Drive does offer a sync service to automatically upload files from a targeted location on your computer to the cloud. However, there is no automated sync process to download these files from the cloud to your new computer like OneDrive. This is a great platform for collaboration files that are shared with other users.
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You current receive 250GB of storage with their service.
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For more information on setting up File Sync with Google Drive, view our support article: How do I sync files to Google Drive?
- To browse all of our Google Drive support articles, click here.
Bookmarks
Google Chrome offer users the option of storing frequently visited websites in the form of Bookmarks. Many users have come to rely on bookmarks as a means of speeding up their access to frequently visited sites and tools. EWU IT recommends creating profiles within your Chrome browser and syncing your bookmarks to that profile. You're then able to login to any computer, sign into the browser and sync your bookmarks in just a few clicks. To get started, open Google Chrome.
- Click on the icon of the person at the top right of the browser.
- Click on Turn on sync...
- Sign in with your EWU e-mail address and click on Next
- You will be redirected to the EWU SSO sign in page. Enter your e-mail and then your SSO password.
- You will receive a message that your organization (EWU) will manage your profile. Click on Continue.
- You will receive a final message asking you to turn on Sync. Click Yes, I'm in.
For more information on Singing in and Syncing profiles in Chrome, view Googles support article here: Sign in & sync in Chrome.
Software
Essential productivity software, such as Office 365 and Adobe Acrobat will come preinstalled on newly delivered computers. Other EWU-managed software will be available in Company Portal.
For instructions on how to utilize Company Portal or Software Center, view our support article here: How do I install software on my EWU managed Windows computer?
For temporary admin rights to install other software on your EWU managed windows PC, view our support article about the Make Me Admin tool here: How do I get administrative rights on my PC? How do I use the MakeMeAdmin application on my PC?
For any other needed software, open a ticket with EWU IT for assistance with the installation.
What is new or different?
The most striking difference that you will notice when using your new computer is the login screen. Below we'll outline what you may be used to seeing and compare it to what you will be seeings.
New Splash screen
Old Splash screen
New Authorized User screen
Old Authorized User screen
New Login Screen
Old Login Screen
New Credentials
Old Credentials
You MUST use the following format at the login screen: Username@ewu.edu.
Using the old method, you may have only entered your username. This will no longer work. You MUST enter the @ewu.edu domain, after your username.
New method for Installing EWU managed Apps
Old method for Installing EWU managed Apps
Software Center has been replaced by Company Portal. We have prepared a knowledge base article about utilizing both apps, located here: How do I install software on my EWU managed Windows computer?
The Software Center application was used as an App store for the installation of EWU IT approved applications.