FAQS
Computer Support
- Computer Problems
- Word Problems
- Virus Scanning Software Out of Date
- A yellow shield has appeared on my computer screen
Web Site Support
- How do I become an editor of my departments web site?
- Need assistance with Web Site edits?
- How do I request Cascade (Content Management System for DOSA websites) training?
- How do I track the use of our departmental website?
Computer Problems
My computer is frozen. How do I restart?
NOTE: Only perform a hard shut down when your system is not responding. This does not allow your computer to properly shut down and should therefore be avoided when it is possible to manually turn your computer off.
If your computer is not responding to any input, you can force a hard shut down. Depress and hold the power button until the computer shuts off. Wait another 5 seconds before turning the machine back on.
Word Problems
I can't open the Microsoft Word file someone sent me.
Microsoft has released a patch that can be applied to older versions of their Office suite which will allow you to open, edit, and save Office 2007/2010 files. You can download it from Microsofts website using the following link:
Follow Microsofts instructions to download and install the Compatibility Pack.
Virus Scanning Software Out of Date
Symantec AntiVirus is out of date.
Windows XP/7
1) Open "Symantec AntiVirus".
2) Click the "LiveUpdate button":
3) If LiveUpdate updates successfully, make sure that automatic updates are enabled by following these steps:
- In the sidebar above LiveUpdate, click "Change settings".
- Beside Client Management, click "Configure Settings".
- In the Client Management Settings dialog box, click "Scheduled Updates".
- On the Scheduled Updates tab, check "Enable Automatic Updates".
4. If "LiveUpdate" does not update successfully, submit your request for support using the Computer Support Form or call 7-SAIT (847-467-7248).
There's a yellow shield on my taskbar that says I need to run Windows/Microsoft update
You can generally double-click on the shield or the pop-up message to be taken directly to these updates. If this does not show up, use the following steps:
Windows XP
1) Open the "Start" menu and click on "All Programs".
2) Select "Windows Update".
3) You may get a screen indicating that you need to install "ActiveX". Click on the bar that appears on your browser and select "Run Add-on" or "Install ActiveX Control":
4) You may be asked to install "Microsoft Genuine Advantage Notifications" as well. If so, follow the steps on-screen.
5) You will eventually see a screen below:
6) Click on "Custom". It may take a few moments for Microsoft Update to analyze which updates are needed for your computer.
7) The browser will refresh and show a sidebar similar to the following:
8) "High Priority" updates should be installed. "Optional Hardware and Software" updates may be installed, but should NOT include "Windows Search", "Office Live Add-in", or "Windows Live Essentials".
9) Click on "Install Updates" at the top when you are done, and you will see the following web page:
10) Click the "Install Updates" button at the top, and follow the steps on screen. You may be asked to restart your computer after or during installation.
Windows 7
1) Open the "Start" menu and click on "All Programs".
2) Select "Windows Update":
3) Click "Check for updates" on the left side of the window, and click "Okay" for all required updates. Optional updates may also be installed, but should NOT include "Windows Search", "Office Live Add-in", or "Windows Live Essentials". Click on the check boxes for updates you want to install.
4) Click "OK" when you are done and follow the instructions on screen. You may be asked to restart your computer after or during installation.
MAC OS
1) Click on the "Apple logo" in the top right corner and select "Software Update".
2) Select the items you want to install, then click "Install".
3) Enter your Administrator account name and password. You may be asked to restart your computer after installation is complete.
How do I become a Web Editor of my departments website?
Email sa-help@northwestern.edu with the following information?
1. You will need approval from your supervisor or the exisiting web editors to edit the website. Provide this information.
2. Your name (first and last) and netid.
3. Name of your departments existing website.
Need assistance with Web Edits
I have problems with editing/formating my departments website.
Email sa-help@northwestern.edu with the following information:
1. Webpage URL.
2. Explanation of problems, details of errors and/or screen shot.
Cascade training?
How do I request cascade training?
Email your request to sa-help@northwestern.edu.
A training schedule will be provided based on availability.
How do I track the use of our departmental website?
Statistics are tracked via Google Analytics. To gain access to Google Analytics email sa-help@northwestern.edu with the following information:
1. Your name and department.
2. An active gmail account.
3. After your request has been processed you will be provided information about access to Google Analytics.