Our computers, with very few exceptions, are part of a networked environment. this means that they are part of a larger group, connected to each other through a LAN / WAN, (Local Area Network / Wide Area Network).

Our model, which pretty typical, is a Client / Server model. In which the computer you us is a client (or workstation), and connects to a server at some remote location, (typically a server room at your worksite).

The server functions for the most part as a file storage device, and a print server, (a device that serves printers, just like a waiter 'serves' your meal).

This gives us some advantages. With file storage, this means that the files you create, stored on the server, are accessible from any other computer, so no more, 'keeping it on a floppy', or not having access because it is on the computer in your room, and you are in the lab. It also allows for common files to be shared.

For the user, there are some things to be aware of.

1. Everyone has a 'home' directory, which is mapped to drive letter H:. You can view this by clicking on 'My Computer'

2. Only you, and the system administrators (for maintenance etc.) have access to your H: drive.

3. Your H: drive is where you should store ALL your data files, even if you plan to keep them on other media, you should put a copy on your H: drive for safe keeping, (server drives are backed up regularly).

4. Saving anywhere on the local machine (C: drive, My Documents, etc.) WILL cause loss of your data.

5. The My Documents folder is erased every time you log out of the system. We also re-image workstations throughout the year, which completely wipes the data from the hard drive, and replaces it with a base windows configuration.