We’re excited to announce that the Windows 11 upgrade will be available for all Denison University faculty and staff starting March 10th, 2025! As previously announced, this upgrade offers numerous enhancements.

Why This Upgrade Matters

Windows 11 offers a range of enhancements to improve your overall computing experience, including:

• Improved Performance: Many devices may see faster boot times and smoother multitasking, particularly those with newer hardware.
• Enhanced Security: Advanced features to better protect your devices and sensitive data against emerging threats.
• Refreshed Interface: A modern, intuitive design with new features to make navigation easier and more efficient.

Timeline

• Self-service upgrade available: March 10, 2025.
• Recommended upgrade window: March 10, 2025 – May 31, 2025
• Upgrade reminders: June 1, 2025 – July 31, 2025
  

The upgrade will be automatically installed, after July 31, 2025. To minimize disruptions, we encourage you to back up any critical data before this date. While the upgrade is designed to preserve your files, a backup adds an extra layer of security.

Here’s how:

1. Before you begin: Ensure all applications are closed, your device is connected to power, and your critical data is backed up to Google Drive or an external storage device. You will be unable to use your computer during this time.
2. Initiate the upgrade: Click on the “Windows 11 Upgrade” Icon available on your desktop and follow the on-screen prompts.
   
3. Automatic Restart: Once the upgrade is downloaded and installed, your computer will automatically restart to complete the process.

For a visual guide to the upgrade process, please refer to this self-service document:
Windows 11 – Self-Service User Experience

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions or encounter any issues during the upgrade process, please don’t hesitate to contact us:

• Phone: 740-587-6395
• Email: servicedesk@denison.edu

ITS has completed testing of macOS Sequoia compatibility with Denison’s standard software and technology services. No issues were identified.

Accordingly, ITS is lifting the caution against updating to macOS Sonoma published in this Sept. 2024 announcement.

BEFORE YOU UPDATE

The following critical recommendations apply to this (and any) major operating system update:

• Back up your files. In the rare event of a problem with the update process, it may be necessary to erase your computer’s hard drive, then install a fresh copy of the operating system and restore your files. To protect your important data, please adopt the recommended file storage location or backup approach.
• Check any specialized software you use to ensure it is compatible with macOS Sonoma. You may need to update specialized applications before upgrading your Mac’s operating system.
• Make sure you have time. Allow 2 or more hours for the update itself. Ensure that you have time after the update to address any issues that may occur.
• Plug in your computer before starting the update. Running out of power during a software update can render your system unusable and result in data loss.

UPDATE to macOS Sequoia

Select Apple Menu > About This Mac > More Info > General > Software Update to see the option to update your Mac to macOS Sonoma. 

QUESTIONS?
Please contact the ITS Service Desk at servicedesk@denison.edu or 740-587-6395.

Please take a minute soon to:

• Update the Zoom client on your computer so you do not have trouble joining Zoom meetings and have access to the latest Zoom features and security fixes.
• Set your Zoom client to update automatically so you stay up-to-date. We recommend choosing the “Slow” option which provides a bit of time between when new updates are released and when they are installed which enhances stability.

Mobile Device Note: Zoom updates on mobile devices (iOS and Android) are typically handled automatically through the App Store or Google Play Store. Ensure your phone’s automatic updates are enabled to receive the latest Zoom version (App Store, Play Store).

Why Update?

Every 3 months, Zoom enforces a new minimum version requirement for the Zoom client. If you have an outdated version, you will be unable to log in or join meetings until you update (see the Zoom Software Quarterly Lifecycle Policy for details). Additionally, Zoom is regularly releasing security fixes and new features. With an up-to-date Zoom client, you can more fully participate in Zoom meetings.

How to Update Zoom on Your Windows or Mac Computer:

1. Open the Zoom application on your computer.
2. In the window’s top-right corner, click on your profile picture or initials and select Check for Updates.
3. If an update is available, a prompt will appear indicating the available version and automatically start to download it. Once it is downloaded, an Install option will appear with options to defer if needed. Click Install.
4. Once installed, Zoom will automatically close and re-launch with the updated version.

Need Help? If you encounter any issues updating Zoom, please reach out to the ITS Service Desk via email at servicedesk@denison.edu or call 740-587-6395 and we will be happy to assist you.

Apple released macOS 15, Sequoia, on Monday, September 16, 2024. This is a major upgrade to the current Apple operating system, macOS 14 (Sonoma).

Information Technology Services (ITS) strongly advises that you DO NOT immediately install Sequoia for the following reasons:

1. Compatibility testing: ITS is testing Sequoia’s compatibility with Denison systems and software. We have identified potential issues that may negatively affect key applications, including printing to network printers and logging into the machine from the lock screen.
2. Timing matters: When considering a major operating system update, it’s best to wait until you aren’t depending on your computer to work as expected for daily tasks, especially during busy periods like the middle of the semester.

ITS continues to test macOS Sequoia with Denison systems and software. We will share an update on Sonoma’s compatibility as soon as we are able to do so.

Important Reminder: Before you update macOS on your computer, it is strongly recommended to back up your system and personal files prior to the update. In the rare event that there is a problem with the update process, it may be necessary to erase your computer’s hard drive, then install a fresh copy of the operating system and restore your personal files. To protect your important data, please adopt a recommended file storage location or backup approach.

If you have questions, please contact the ITS Service Desk at servicedesk@denison.edu or 740-587-6395.