Final Migration of TFREC PCs to WSU Systems

Co-written by Michael Gibson, CAHNRS IT, and Wendy Jones, TFREC IT

After upgrading our network hardware, installing multiple WiFi access points, configuring a failsafe cutover for when K20 goes down, and various other ‘tweaks’, many of you are still having connectivity issues. Frustrating, to say the least. But there is one remaining step that is supposed to ensure full compatibility with WSU systems, including network connectivity and full integration with all the WSU network has to offer (see the full list of “benefits” below). CAHNRS IT is referring to this as the “completion of the Wenatchee Tree Fruit RE Facility migration to the WSU Pullman domain and networks.” FYI – this does not apply to Mac computers  – at least not for now.

The Migration Process

The process for migration would be done over several weeks in the months of October and November (dates not confirmed). Priority for migration would be given to individual labs and then individual systems. Multiple technicians (CAHNRS IT) would be available on-site for system migration and general troubleshooting.

The goal of the migration is to upgrade systems and add those resources to the domain (CAHNRS active directory). CAHNRS IT will make every effort to retain data and programs without the need to rebuild systems. However, you should have on-hand any software installation discs (or external backup of installation files) and licensing information in case they do need to reinstall things.

Do all computers need to be worked on?

If you are already running Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise, you should not need to be upgraded. They may want to check on your settings and make changes as needed to be fully integrated. If they do need to make adjustments, it will not affect any files or software and should be a quick process. However, if you have Windows 10 Home or are running Windows 7, you will need the “full treatment”. Unfortunately, not all computers can be upgraded. Refer to the list of prerequisites below.

*As I mentioned in a recent email/IT Blog article, Microsoft will be discontinuing all support for older versions of their operating systems. PC’s without current security updates will not be allowed on the WSU network. If you have a computer running pre- Windows 7, you would need to update to W7 prior to the migration. But if your system does not meet the specs listed above, it’s not worth the hassle. Not sure how to check your system properties or how to upgrade to W7 (you need to have a W7 install disc)? Refer to the list at the bottom of this article for “Helpful Resource Links”.

What do I need to do to prepare?

• The first thing you need to do is perform a count of how many computers you or your program have and note what version of Windows they are running and determine if any do not meet the prerequisites listed above. If you aren’t sure how to do that, see “Helpful Resource Links” at the bottom of this article.
• Next, BACK UP YOUR FILES on an external drive (good idea to do this on a regular basis anyway).
• Gather any software discs or installation files (on an external drive) and any certification or licensing information to go with the software. This is just in case they need to reinstall after they upgrade your system. If you are running Windows 7, make sure the software is compatible with Windows 10.
• Make sure that you or someone in your program with Admin access to the computers is available when CAHNRS IT comes out.

Is this the end of things?

Although the migration to the WSU domain should help connection issues to the cloud and networked printers, our network is still susceptible to ISP slowdowns and network outages. This is out of their control to prevent entirely. And their completion of the migration does not mean an end to their support. They will continue to work and “tweak” as needed so that our location continues to improve. But this is the last big hurdle we must cross to reach optimum functioning.