Computing Services
File storage: Individual, Secretarial, Group, Archival
The campus IT department provides networked file storage using file servers; powerful computers that provide services to many people simultaneously. Saving files on the file server provides two primary benefits: flexible access and protection against mechanical and other massive failures. Folders on the file servers are available from any computer on campus, as well as from computers that are off campus with an Internet connection. Files stored on the file servers are protected against loss by routinely coping files to a different server located in a different area.
Individual (students and employees)
Each user is provided a personal network folder on a file server for storing files. This network folder is usually mapped to drive letter Z for convenience and is commonly referred to as the Z drive. This storage spaced is intended to be used for campus-related files and is backed up routinely to protect files from loss due to equipment failure. The folder is accessible to the individual user only and cannot be shared. The size of the folder for employees is currently limited to 300MB and the folder size for students is 25MB, unless special arrangements are made. Office, classroom, and lab computers are configured so the “My Documents” icon points to the user’s personal network folder (Z drive).
Laptop computers are usually configured differently than office computers to provide convenient off-network use. In most cases, file storage synchronization between the laptop and network storage is configured to protect files from being lost due to equipment failure.
Group (students and employees)
Departments and other groups can request a group folder for storing files of interest to the group. Group folders are usually part of a network share that is typically mapped to drive letter J and commonly referred to as the "J drive." Security settings can be established to control access to the files stored in group folders.
Secretarial (employees only)
Special network storage is provided for instructors who work closely with the secretary assigned to them. Unlike the individual storage spaces, it is a space both the instructor and secretary can access. Procedures should be discussed and established between the instructor and secretary.
Archival (employees only)
Files that should be kept but don't need to be readily available should be copied to CD-ROM and deleted from the file server. Students can purchase blank CD-R discs in the IHCC Bookstore and use one of the computers in the Computer Lab that has a CD-RW drive. Employees who want to archive department files can purchase blank CD-R discs like other office supplies and use a computer in the Computer Lab that has a CD-RW drive or use a computer in the Digital Media Lab that has a CD-RW drive. As usual, IT technical support staff will provide assistance if needed and requested.
