Process of Replacing your Campus Workstation

Process of Replacing your Campus Workstation

Due to a computer upgrade or an issue detected on your campus workstation, a station swap is needed. Prior to the swap, we will need you to complete some things prior, to ensure a smooth transition without data loss.

1. Data Backup – you are responsible for backing up your data. Swapping out your workstation requires that any data that is saved locally on the hard drive will need to be backed up to an alternative storage solution. This can be Microsoft OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, a network drive such as your H: or I: Drive, or an external storage device. This will need to be compliant with the university storage policy.

Storage solutions can be viewed here.

Microsoft OneDrive is the recommended storage solution for university users. This should already be installed on your campus workstation if you are not using it already.

1. Back up your folders with OneDrive (microsoft.com) – this will back up your files stored in your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop Folders.
   1. For simplicity, consider storing files in other locations (excluding your network drives H and I) in a folder in one of these three locations if needed. Examples of these other storage locations are your Downloads, Videos, or Music folder.

2. Browser Bookmark Backup – if you utilize bookmarks on your web browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, etc.), you may need to backup these if stored on the computer. If you are signed into the Brower, then it is backed up with the account.
   1. Microsoft Edge - How to Back up Microsoft Edge Favorites (lifewire.com)
   2. Google Chrome - Import bookmarks & settings - Google Chrome Help (See Bottom for export instructions to html file)
   3. Mozilla Firefox - Export Firefox bookmarks to an HTML file to back up or transfer bookmarks | Firefox Help (mozilla.org)

3. Outlook Signature – If you use the Outlook Application on your desktop and have a signature stored on the hard drive, you will need to back the signature up so it can be re-added to your new computer.
   1. You can do this by saving a Word document of any Outlook signatures you may need. This file can be stored in one of the backup locations listed above.

Once all files are in the OneDrive Storage locations, you should see a processing icon over the OneDrive logo in your taskbar. Once the processing arrow is gone, please click on the icon to ensure all data is backed up with no errors. There will be a green check mark with a “Your files are synced” message.

Once you are backed up, please contact IT saying that you are ready for your replacement station.