Winter 2014 Volume 16, Issue 1

Windows 7 Migration

by Jim Cummings

Windows  XP

We are fast approaching Windows XP End of Life, scheduled for April 8, 2014. As part of the Windows 7 migration process, we have been increasing RAM, replacing smaller hard drives, and in some cases, replacing computers in order to meet the Windows 7 platform requirements.  During the migration process, we have also been installing the latest versions of software packages available to SSC Network Users.

We DO NEED Windows XP users to contact the SSTS Main Office (ext. 82152), or email ssc-migration@uwo.ca, to schedule a date and time to have your computer migrated.

Our process ensures that every system is migrated so that each end-user's personal data and settings are restored properly to the new platform. Unfortunately, some devices such as old printers and scanners are NOT compatible with the Windows 7 OS. To that end, we endeavor to find or suggest a solution. 

Windows 7 or 8?

Windows 7 has been available for four years now and due to its stability, combined with the latest driver and application support; it is the best choice for most users.

We do not fully support Windows 8.x on the SSC Network as there are a few known domain and network issues still to be resolved by Microsoft, as well as third-party application providers.

Staying on Windows XP?  

Some research lab computer systems, currently using Windows XP, have custom applications or specific hardware. These applications or hardware may not be supported by newer versions of Windows.  We will address available options for these custom specific research systems on a case by case basis.

Status

For the past several months, SSTS (formerly SSNDS) has been working with faculty and staff to migrate their office computers to the Windows 7 platform.  We have successfully completed over 350 systems, but still have 230 systems to migrate; not including research lab computers.