Task 3 (M2)
You should have a back out plan, whereby, if something goes wrong, you will be able to restore the computer to the original settings, with the correct configuration settings and files. Before carrying out any upgrade, you should always backup all configuration settings and files, and if possible, you should keep the backup on two separate devices.
You should record information about the computer, including version number, the software that is currently installed on the computer and the number of updates applied to the system.
You should record all the updates you installed to the computer so you can uninstall it, just in case something does go wrong and you need to fix the problem.
Task 4 (P4)
I will be installing Windows Vista over a Windows XP installation then install software and update it as necessary.
Planning upgrades and installations is important so a list needs to be created so you know what to do in order to minimise downtime.
Hardware Requirements
5–10 gigabytes of hard disk quota/space is needed
DVD disk drive
Systems need at least 512 MB of RAM or higher
DirectX needs to be installed
Drivers used in Windows Vista
Backing Up Data
All important data must be backed up to prevent downtime and problems occurring to the end user. Before you ever make major changes to a computer system a current and up to date backup must be taken.
You can back up data by using Windows Backup, or other backup software, copying the important data to a network folder then burn the data to a CD or DVD or backup to an external hard disk. You should also note that a backup should also be kept off site.
Timing needs to be considered. Software upgrades need to cause minimum disruption so upgrades should take place during natural downtime (such as at night) or when the least number of people are using the computer systems. A time schedule should be made and should be kept to.
Upgrade to Windows Vista
Insert the Windows Vista Disk into the DVD drive. Usually it will automatically open, but you may need to manually start the installer by going to my computer.
On the installation screen there is an option whereby you can check your systems compatibility with your current hardware configuration.
The next screen prompt asks if you would like to run the upgrade advisor. It is recommended you use this tool as it will tell you what is and is not compatible with the Windows Vista.
Installing Vista onto a laptop which is unplugged will prompt you to plug in the power cable to prevent data loss incase the battery power fails or goes flat.
You will be prompted by another screen to transfer files from one computer to another. This may be needed, but it may not so adjust to your needs.
On the next screen prompt, you will be asked if you want to download and install the latest Windows Vista updates. You should normally select yes. If there is no internet connection select no.
You will then need to wait while Vista downloads updates to your computer. This can take a while, depending on connection speed and how many updates there are to download.
Windows will then update the operating system.
After the updates have been applied, you will need to activate your software, you activate the software by following the instructions on screen.
You will then have to accept the terms and conditions (Sometimes called EULA) to continue and click next.
You can choose to do a new install or upgrade. If you are upgrading and you find that the option is disabled, then you need more disk space.
The upgrade looks at the state of your current upgrade and makes sure your computer system meets the requirements. You will also have to wait for this to load.
This report shows you any potential issues that may hold back your upgrade.
The next screen will take a while, but it is vital. You can use this opportunity to start another installation if you have more installations, or make a cup of tea or something.
The process is still initialising so more time will be required
Windows vista will automatically restart several times during the upgrade or installation. This allows registry changes to be made.
The next screen allows asks if you want to enable automatic updates, usually you should use the recommended settings.
When the load is complete the next screen will enable you to set the time and date of the machine. You should do this according to the organisations location (or policy).
When the installation is complete a thank you message will be displayed.
You have successfully upgraded Windows XP to Windows Vista.
Task 5 (M3)
(M4)
A back out plan should be produced to document the actions to be taken to restore the service should a rollout of a release fail, either partially or totally.
There are a number of approaches and a combination of both can be used:
- a failed roll out may be completely reversed to allow the complete restoration of the IT service to its previously known state.
- Contingency measures may need to be taken to restore as much as possible for the IT service, if it is possible to fully restore it.
Examples
- Releases may have been released in stages because of a limit on disk space, processing power or to test out the new functions. One of the new features may not function properly.
- Rollout plans often include replacing software or hardware (such as the operating system or the type of computer used. Should something go wrong, you need to reinstall the hardware.
- You may need to back out if the transition is taking longer than planned, and is severely affecting the operation of the business.
Back out plans should be tested to see if it actually works.
Task 6
Task 7 (P6)
You are usually fronted with a mandatory or optional product registration procedure. Usually, product registration can be carried out online, but sometimes this may not be a possibility due to organisational internet connection restrictions or lack of an internet connection. Many companies allow you to post a registration card for you to fill out with organisation details – and it often features a small questionnaire. Other methods of registering products can also often be made by an automated telephone system or manned call centre.
Often, to provide proof that you actually purchased the software, you may need to quote a serial number, which often has letters numbers and can also feature symbols.
Software which uses the internet to register, may “unlock” features which where unavailable – such as automatic updates. Some software manufactures may offer limited technical help or no technical help, if you do not register your products.
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