Desktop Support

I think the most important thing I learned about desktop support is how to save money on purchasing the equipment. When I become a technology coordinator I want to get all of the equipment necessary for the school with the least amount of money spent on it as possible. Something I didn't know before reading this was about vendors that can offer a greater discount to educational institutions. I was not aware of the state government contract with vendors so I would seek these vendors out to get discounts for my school district.

The proper licensing is very important for legal purposes. I learned that if you want a software package you should check to see if you can purchase the machines with the software already installed to save money and time of installation. I also learned to look into site licenses that can all computers throughout an entire building or district can have the software for a particular clost per machine. I didn't even think of how difficult it could be to keep track of which software has been installed and where it is installed for license purposes. After reading I learned how important and difficult this may be and that I can actually get software utilities to help me to keep up and organized with this issue.

Security threats are a HUGE issue when it comes to technology at a school district. I personally had to learn the hard way. With most or all computers being connected to the internet it is important to keep a current virus protection on all machines. This virus software should be updated regularly and it is the technology coordinators job to make sure of this. Not only do you need virus protection on the machines in the school but you also need it on the network. I never even thought of this! I learned you can purchase specific virus software to protect networks and this is just as important if not more than protecting all the computers.

I currently am a student and not in the school system yet but just from reading this have learned that I can get adware and spyware just from visiting websites. I need to update my computers virus protection so I do not end up without a computer again! When I get into a school and they do not have a HelpDesk, I love the idea have having a number teachers and others can call for help and having students interested in technology to be a part of this. It can be a great way for students to get experience and for teachers to have access to help quicker and hopefully be more willing to use it.