Smith-Assigned Computers

General Computer FAQ

What should I do if my computer or other equipment is stolen?

Contact local police or Campus Safety, then ITS.

Can I change the name of my computer?

No. The name is used in our management systems.

Can I customize/decorate my laptop?

If you must, we recommend investing in an acrylic cover as stickers can mar the finish. Please keep in mind that the computer will be returned and likely reused.

My computer needs to be repaired. How do I get help?

Visit the Request Help page to submit a ticket. For more information, see Computer Repair.

What do I need to do to get operating system patches and software app updates on my employee computer?

Your Smith computer is remotely managed by Smith ITS, who will keep it up to date (see above). Note: When new versions of an operating system are released, look for communications from ITS before deciding to upgrade.

Can I keep my old computer when I get my replacement?

No. The computer must be returned to ITS, as it will likely be reused/reassigned.

How and when do I return equipment to ITS?

Reach out to ITS to schedule a drop-off or pickup of any equipment you no longer need for any reason. This includes when you leave the college, get an upgrade, or you think something needs to be disposed of. Please include chargers and any other peripherals.

Computer Management FAQ

The following FAQs answer questions about the regular automatic updating and patching activities that are performed on Smith Computers on a weekly basis.

What happens if I forget to leave my computer on and plugged in on a Wednesday?

MacOS computers will receive the patch the next Wednesday or Thursday night that it is powered on, plugged in, and has internet access.

Windows computers that are off during the update window (Thursdays between 1 and 5 a.m.) will receive the patches the next time they are turned on. The patches will automatically download at that time; if they require a reboot for installation, as some patches do, you will be prompted to reboot. If you choose to not reboot at that time, the patches will be installed the next time the computer is restarted.

What if my computer is off campus on Wednesday nights/Thursday mornings?

The patching process will occur whether the computer is on campus or off campus as long as the computer is powered on and plugged into to power and has access to the internet. Computers that are off campus do not need to be connected to the VPN (Ivanti).

What operating systems, browsers, and enterprise applications are part of the automated patching program?

The process applies available security and software updates to the OS version that is currently installed on your computer and will not automatically upgrade your OS to a newer major OS. In addition, all standard browsers and software applications listed above are part of Managed Patching. 

Is academic software part of the weekly patching process?

Academic software will be updated between semesters, except in cases where there is an urgent security matter to address. 

Will this process automatically upgrade my computer to new versions of the operating system (i.e. macOS or Windows)?

No, this process only applies updates within the version of software currently installed on your computer. So for instance, if your computer is running on Windows 10, this process would apply any available updates to Windows 10 but would not upgrade you to Windows 11. If your operating system is older (has a smaller number) than Mac OS 11 or Windows 10, it will need to be upgraded to the most recent version before automated patching can begin. ITS will reach out directly to people whose devices cannot support an upgraded operating system.

When new versions of operating systems are released, look for communications from ITS before deciding to upgrade your device.

What computers are included in the Managed Patching program?

The program includes all Smith-issued computers, such as desktops or laptops that are used for day-to-day operations. Exceptions include specific computers designated as research or special use computers, e.g. power plant computers. Exempted computers initially undergo a review to determine if they require a custom update schedule due to the unique requirements of the programs they run. Currently exempted computers may be added to the patching program at a later time. Academic software–including applications running on computers in public spaces and labs–is not part of the weekly managed patching cycle.

If you manage a computer that you believe requires a custom update schedule, please submit a ticket to ithelp@smith.edu with a request for consultation.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for this process?

No, there is nothing you need to do, other than remember to leave your computer on and plugged in. If you have a laptop, it is okay for the laptop lid to be closed, as long as the laptop is plugged and and is connected to a network at the time you close it. 

Does this mean ITS is reviewing the contents of my computer?

This is an automated process and ITS does not look at any user data on Smith-owned computers.

I have set my computer to go into sleep mode every night. Do I need to change that?

No, you do not need to do anything. Sleep mode is disabled when the computer is plugged into power. You can manually power down your computer on nights when patching is not scheduled. (Laptops running on battery power can still be put to sleep.)