File and Print Services
Most of the computers in the School of Medicine are personal computers. While this paradigm offers the user some benefits, by default the user is placed in the position of system administrator of the machine. (It is worth noting that most of these machines are kept in locked offices.)
System crashes and user errors can result in lost files if the machine's disks are not backed up. Unfortunately, daily backups of personal computers are generally cumbersome for the user to perform and usually are neglected. Personal computers also do not provide an optimal environment for sharing files among multiple users, nor do they generally provide much in the way of password security.
The MSIS Networking Group provides "file services" for PC and Macintosh users. These allow personal computer users to store their documents on a shared "file server" machine. The user is no longer tied to one personal computer, but can access his or her files from any networked computer on the SoM network and in some cases from home. This access is password protected and the files are backed up to tape every night. Also, "Shared areas" can be made where members of a work group can keep files together.
User Home Directory Storage
Each SoM user is given a Home directory which maps to the H drive letter when the login to MED on a machine that is configured to work in the SoM environment. This home directory is where an individual may store personal documents that they wish to be protected. By placing data here, the data will be protected in the event that their person computer fails to function. The data is also backed up daily in the event of a file server failure. Currently, MSIS cannot provided backups for archival purposes which means if you delete the file by mistake a month ago, MSIS isn't obligated to "restore" the deleted document from tape.
Department Shared Drive Storage
Most SoM Departments have a "shared" folder where only members of their department have access. This shared folder maps maps to the S drive letter when the login to MED on a machine that is configured to work in the SoM environment. There are some cases where department data should only be seen by certain individuals. In these cases, MSIS can "restrict" access even further for such special folders that contain confidential data. For this special case to occur, create the folder and contact the MSIS Helpdesk at 313-577-1527 and let them know your Department, the folder name, and who should have access.
Please Note: WSU's Acceptable Use Policy applies to any data stored on the SoM servers - this means that files such as copyrighted MP3s are a no-no. Also, in order to ensure that every user has enough space disk quotas are enabled. Each user is granted 200 megs of personal storage space.
Printer Services
Many of the network printers in the SoM environment can be configured to have a print queue on the file servers which will allow workstations on the SoM Network to connect to the queue in order to print. This printing setup has the following benefits:
- Printer drivers for a printer are automatically installed when you "connect" to the printer for the first time. So there isn't a need to download the drivers and hope you found the correct ones.
- Printing can be restricted to certain people or groups. For example, you may have color printer that only your department should be able to print to so printing can be restricted only to your department.
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