Windows 10 for DSA

The Division of Student Affairs (DSA) is transitioning from Windows 7 to Windows 10 as it’s primary supported business operating system platform.

Project Complete!

What is happening?

The Division of Student Affairs (DSA) is transitioning from Windows 7 to Windows 10 as its primary supported business operating system platform for workstations, laptops, and tablets. This project also includes additional “User Experience” improvements pertaining to Desktop Software, Remote Access, and Security.

Why?

DSA’s primarily supported desktop operating system is currently Microsoft Windows 7. Windows 8 was skipped due to significant interface changes and low overall benefit to DSA customers over Windows 7. Windows 10 was chosen as the next primary desktop operating system because its interface is more similar to Windows 7 and due to it’s expected long lifecycle, meaning we can use it for many years. Other updated software will be deployed for compatibility and licensing such as Microsoft Office 2016 and Adobe Acrobat DC.

When?

Windows 10 deployments are tentatively planned to begin in Summer 2018. Technology Services – Student Affairs will also make use of departmental workstation replacements as a natural time to upgrade and avoid disruption wherever possible.

Check the Schedule tab below for the latest updates.

What should I know?

  • Windows 10 will be deployed to your workstation remotely after business hours.
  • Windows 10 has an updated user interface, but many things should look familiar.
  • Updated software programs/applications will be deployed alongside Windows 10, such as Office 2016 and Acrobat DC.
  • Trainings for Windows 10 and other software are available to individuals online and departments through TAMU HR.
  • Users should review the DSA User Steps – A Quick Start Guide PDF found below on the website. It provides an overview and covers what all users will have to do in preparation for their deployment.
    • If you use Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox web browsers, any Bookmarks will need to be manually saved or synced before the deployment process begins. Check the Guide for details.
    • If you store files on your local workstation’s hard drive (e.g. C:\ or D:\UsersLocal) those file must be copied elsewhere before the deployment process begins. Check the Guide for details.
    • IMPORTANT: Any Chrome/Firefox Bookmarks or locally stored files will be permanently lost during the deployment process and cannot be recovered by IT. Please contact Technology Services – Student Affairs if you have any questions regarding the Guide or FAQs.

Check the FAQs tab below for details.

[UPDATES]

  • Windows 7/8 End of Support
    • Windows 7 and 8 will no longer be supported in DSA after August 31, 2019.
    • Only Windows 10 Enterprise will be supported moving forward.
    • If you believe you need an exception granted for technical reasons, please contact the Technology Services – Student Affairs Service Desk.
  • Windows Mobile Devices
    • Windows 10 will be deployed to DSA mobile devices (laptops and tablets) after all workstations have been completed.

What if I need help?

All DSA users should read this PDF document ahead of their Windows 10 deployment group date.

Email Migration - User Steps - A Quick Start Guide

It covers what users will have to do to prepare ahead of their deployment date as well as afterwards.
It also covers what the deployment process will look like.

[Additional User Resource Documents]

Setting Up Outlook  |  Setting Default PDF Application  |  Multiple Monitors with Windows 10