Technology Update
September 2019
How (and Why) to Check for Computer Updates
Is your Wi-fi cutting out? Does your sound sometimes not work correctly? It sounds like your computer might need an update.
Updates aren't something that are solely in the hands of IT but rather - as a regular computer user, it's up to you to make sure that your tools are working properly. Just like a chef regularly needs to sharpen their knives, it's up to you to make sure that the tools you use daily are in peak working condition. This is accomplished with software updates, delivered through Windows Update.
Windows 10 has done many things to make updating easier. In fact - most updates happen without you even knowing about it – in the background while you work. Larger updates may at times require a reboot. While this sounds like a hassle, it doesn't have to be. If you rarely take your computer home, we recommend just leaving it on overnight. When you walk away at the end of the day, simply press the Windows key + L on your keyboard. Your computer will lock (but remain on) and only requires your password to resume where you left off. When your computer is locked, Windows is smart enough to understand your working hours and apply necessary updates and automatically restart the computer outside of these hours.
If you’d rather check manually for updates, simply click the start button, then click on settings (it looks like a gear) and in the new window scroll down to “Update and Security.” Clicking this will bring you to a page where you can click a button to “Check for Updates” manually. The computer may or may not require a restart after checking, but this can then be scheduled to happen at a more convenient time. Just remember – your computer must be on to apply updates. You can schedule them for later, but if your computer is not on at the later time, the updates will still be there waiting the next time you power up your machine.
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Fall 2019 Tech Training Opportunties
Have you noticed 'Sweep'?
Sweep is a new option in your web version of Outlook
When you select a message and click the Sweep icon, you’ll see four options based on the sender of that email.
Delete all messages from the Inbox folder (from that sender)
Delete all messages from the Inbox folder and any future messages (from that sender)
Always keep the latest message (from that sender) and delete the rest
Always delete messages (from that sender) older than 10 days
It’s up to you how and when to institute these rules, but one great use is for the ubiquitous coupon and sale emails that many of us get. Perhaps you do want to stay informed about deals at your favorite store, but after 10 days, many of those emails become outdated. You could choose the final option, Always delete messages older than 10 days, and you no longer have to take any action on those outdated emails–Sweep takes care of it for you.
Once you institute a Sweep rule, you’ll be able to see it by clicking on View rules in the sweep dialog box, or go to Options -> Mail -> Inbox and sweep rules.
What is the Microsoft Store and how do I use it?
The Microsoft Store is a digital storefront for Windows users. It offers all sorts of digital content for download in one place, some free and some paid. You can think of it as a similar offering to Google Play for Android users and Apple’s App Store.
How Do I Access the Microsoft Store?
The Microsoft Store is included with Windows 10 by default. Simply open the Start Menu and search for 'store' to find the Microsoft Store app.
You can also browse the web version of the Microsoft Store, which includes additional items. There’s also a Store web page for Windows apps as well. If you’re interested in a certain type of content, use the tabs at the top to switch categories. Otherwise, you can use the Search function in the top-right to find what you’re looking for.
Staff vs. Student Store Access
Please note - as a staff member, you are able to browse and download apps from the ENTIRE Microsoft Store. Students can ONLY browse pre-approved apps that are in the "Marshall Public School" section of the store.
How do I get an App from the Store?
To download a free app for yourself, just click Get. If you are prompted to sign-in with a Microsoft account, click "No Thanks." If you find a free app that you would like to use with your students and it's not already in the "Marshall Public School" area, please submit a tech ticket. Likewise, if you would like a paid app for yourself or your students, please submit a request to the technology department.
Marshall Public School's Technology Team
Karen Londgren
Nick Esping
Kent Powell
Email: karen.londgren@marshall.k12.mn.us
Website: https://www.marshall.k12.mn.us/domain/17