On September 25, 2017 Apple released macOS High Sierra (Mac OS 10.13). The biggest change in this version of macOS is a complete and drastic revamp of the underlying file system on certain models. Because this change touches every single aspect of the Macintosh’s operation, it is vital… Continue reading »
Windows Windows 7 and Office 2010 & 2013 all need to be “activated” every six months by contacting the OIT license server. This is a requirement put in place by Microsoft to reduce piracy. There are typically two reasons a computer cannot activate: If it is off the college network… Continue reading »
Big ticket computer items such as monitors, printers or computers themselves should be purchased through the Office for Information Technology. This is to ensure that the best academic price is reached and that the college tax-free status is utilized. Also, monitors and printers will generally require little to no support… Continue reading »
PLEASE do not put your computer equipment in the trash. For one, it’s not green. Two, it’s not safe – someone could grab your computer, boot it up and read all your files. Even if your computer is broken or doesn’t boot someone could still take the drive out and… Continue reading »
Recommended Brands for student computers OIT recommends Apple and Dell computers for their reliability and configurations. There is a local authorized Apple repair shop in Williamstown and Dell has service technicians in the area who make service calls to the college for computer requiring warranty repair. Williams College is committed… Continue reading »
OIT provides support for many electronic devices. Although we can’t anticipate all the ways in which these devices will be used we do offer a list of standard services that OIT provides for them. Prior to purchase, please read the Electronic Device Policy as stated by the Dean… Continue reading »
Plug the iPad in to a power source. Click the top button to turn it on if it doesn’t turn on automatically. One of the first things it will do is prompt to join a wireless network. If this is your own device then join “Purple Air”. You will be… Continue reading »
New hires requiring a computer may use the Web HelpDesk ticket system, email desktop@williams.edu or call the Faculty/Staff Support Desk at 413-597-4090. Please note that one should speak with their supervisor first to determine if there are any specific requirements for your particular position such as specialized software,… Continue reading »
Requiring a password when resuming from a screensaver or waking from sleep (stand-by mode). Windows A screensaver password and a sleep/stand-by password are different settings on a PC. It is likely that your screensaver starts up before your computer goes to sleep, so that may be a better choice on… Continue reading »
In the past, people ran 64-bit windows only when they really needed to. With several advanced features such as being able to address more than 4 GB of ram, windows 64-bit systems are becoming more prevalent. Most 32-bit applications install and run fine on 64-bit systems. There are times, however,… Continue reading »
A MAC (Media Access Control) address is a number that identifies the network adapter(s) installed on your computer. The address is composed of up to 6 pairs of characters, separated by colons. You may need to provide your MAC address to register on the Williams Network. To find your MAC address… Continue reading »