This article explains how to prepare for your Ithaca College device replacement through the Technology Renewal Program. It outlines what to expect, how to safeguard your data, and what steps to complete before your scheduled appointment.
Audience
This article is intended for faculty and staff using Ithaca College-owned computers.
Contents
What is Technology Renewal
What is the Technology Renewal Program?
- Replaces most college-owned computers on a recurring four-year cycle.
- Devices are acquired through a four-year lease and exchanged to ensure compatibility with the latest software and operating systems.
- Provides employees with a replacement device every four-years, while the previously assigned device is sent back to our leasing partner.
- Ensures devices under the Technology Renewal Program remain fully supported by Ithaca College.
- Includes devices at both the Ithaca and Los Angeles campuses.
What Happens to My Device and Data?
- When your device is collected as part of Technology Renewal, it is returned to the college's leasing partner.
- All data on the device is permanently erased according to DoD standards as per our contract. Once wiped, data cannot be recovered.
- Important: Back up all files before your renewal appointment. Any data not backed up will be permanently lost.
Identify Your Device for Technology Renewal
All Ithaca College-owned devices include an asset tag. You must identify your devices using the asset tag or the IT Service Portal to complete your Technology Renewal.
Locate the Asset Tag on Your Device
For laptops, the sticker is located on the bottom of the device. For desktops, the sticker is most commonly on the top of the machine. The asset sticker includes:
1). The IT Service Desk phone number
2). The serial number of the asset
3). The replacement cycle for the device
If the asset tag is unreadable, you can locate teh information in the IT Service Portal.
Log In to the IT Service Portal
1). Go to help.ithaca.edu in a web browser
2). Click on "My Submitted Tickets"
3). Sign in with your Ithaca College credentials and authenticate with DUO if prompted.
4). Find and open your technology renewal ticket to see the attached asset.
5). View your device under the "Assets" section.
Schedule a Renewal Appointment
When your computer is up for renewal, you will receive an email from the Technology Renewal team approximately three months prior to your replacement date. This email confirms your upcoming device replacement and provides an opportunity to review your platform preferences and discuss any potential upgrades.
You will later receive a notification confirming your Technology Renewal ticket. The ticket includes your assigned replacement details and a link to schedule your appointment through Microsoft Bookings.
If an appointment is not scheduled, one will be assigned to you.
Back Up Your Data
You are responsible for ensuring your data is backed up before your appointment.
- Back up documents such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF, photos, videos, and music
- Save browser bookmarks and other important resources
- Most data can be located in This PC (Windows) or Home (macOS)
Backup Options
- Use OneDrive (Microsoft 365) for secure cloud storage (1 TB available)
- Request a temporary external hard drive from the IT Service Desk
What Is Backed Up
- Files stored in OneDrive, Ithaca College's supported cloud storage service, will remain available to you after your replacement, when signed in to OneDrive.
- OneDrive should be enabled by default on all college-owned devices. Learn more: Article - Microsoft OneDrive
What Is Not Backed Up
Files stored only on your local device may not be retained. Move files you wish to keep to OneDrive. This includes:
- Local files not stored in a synced folder
- Files in the Downloads folder
- Application-specific files
Back Up Browser Bookmarks
Browser bookmarks are not always included in file backups and should be saved separately.
- Use browser sync with a signed-in profile (such as Microsoft Edge with your IC account)
- Export bookmarks from your browser and import them after setup
Identify Specialized Software
- Review the [current IC software bundle] for a list of programs provided by default on Ithaca college computers.
- Identify any specialized software NOT in the IC software bundle. It is your responsibility to verify with the vendor that the software will work with the newest versions of Windows or macOS.
- Locate any accompanying license codes or activation information to provide to technicians on the day of your renewal.
Identify Non-Standard Hardware
- If you have any non-standard hardware like cameras, recording devices, or other USB devices, they may require additional software and/or drivers to be installed for full functionality.
- Check with the manufacturer to verify that the hardware and software will work with the newest versions of Windows and MacOS.
What to Expect on Your Renewal Date
Laptop to Laptop Swap
Bring your laptop and power adapter to the IT Service Desk (Job Hall 104). A technician will verify that you have backed up data, and assist with the new device setup.
Desktop to Laptop Transition
Your workspace will be converted to be compatible for laptop use. The desktop computer will be removed and existing peripherals (keyboard, mouse, monitor(s)), will be connected using a multi-port adapter.
Desktop to Desktop Swap
IT staff will perform the replacement in your office.
Additional Resources
A variety of support services are available from IT if you would like additional help: