In a previous blog I wrote about purchasing new hardware (Blog).  I have recently run into a couple of issues that are common when a new PC is setup to replace an existing PC. 

Like most people, when a new piece of equipment is purchased, you want to tear it out of the box, plug it in and try it out. I don't blame you, I would do the same thing, There are some things to keep in mind with "out of the box" setup procedures, however..

If your new equipment is a PC, as soon as you turn it on, it will probably run you through a short setup session. You will configure your user-name and password, network settings, and other basic information.  If you are not paying attention, you could mistakenly setup your PC incorrectly for network access.  In the best case, this will just slow you down in getting the system up.  In the worst case, you will not be able to use the Internet and some of your network devices, like shared folders and printers.

The most common mistake I see is entering an incorrect user name and password, when the existing ones are required.  Make sure to write down your existing case-sensitive credential values, exactly, before starting an upgrade.  For example, incorrectly entering a capitol letter in your user name can cause an "access denied" message on shared folders. 

I have seen some PCs automatically assign a user-name with the same ultimate "access denied" effect,  By the time someone comes to get you going again, you may have already customized the desktop to your liking and saved documents.  The problem can be, when your PC is finally configured for network access with your old credentials, a lot of extra work maybe involved moving all your documents, email, and pictures from the default user to the correct user.

You need to keep a couple of details in mind. Windows 2000,XP,Vista, and Unix/Linux are multi-user Operating System.  Several users can run the same PC to access them, This is done by using different settings called profiles.   Some operating systems are case sensitive when it comes to the user-name and password, namely Unix and Linux. Windows is a little more forgiving.  If you set your user-name to "John" on your new PC, but it was "john" on your old PC, you may not be be able to access any shared resources on your server.

Another common problem is providing incorrect network credentials.  For example, your server may be set to recognize you with a specific IP address.  If you are a wireless user, your security protocol may require a key to complete a connection.  Make sure to gather this information from your old PC, as well. 

Finally, your identity to the email server may not be the same as your network credentials.  There is no requirement that they be the same.  Many people forget their email credentials because they are provided automatically day  after day.  Make sure to find these and write them down for your new PC setup.

To sum things up. If you are not sure what your user-name and password should be, the proper network settings, or email settings, you may want to wait before tearing into that new PC.  Talk to your IT department about what settings should be used. 

You can call the CCS Support Department at 800-672-4806 or email_me to set up an on site appointment. I can help setup your new PC, all your data, emails and contacts. 

Have a Great Day
-Bryan