uOttawa licenses a broad range of software through a Microsoft Enterprise Agreement (MSEA). Among other benefits, the agreement provides eligible employees with rights to use the most current and capable versions of Microsoft Windows and Office Suites on uOttawa PCs and Macs.

The University’s Enterprise Agreement with Microsoft is a subscription-based software site licensing program based on institutional headcount rather than device count. It’s intended to reduce costs associated with acquiring and managing Microsoft products, to facilitate new IT service and support strategies, and to improve the availability and consistency of important and pervasive communications, collaboration, and productivity tools at the University.

The labs provide a convenient access to reliable computing resources and common software applications. They offer access to applications required in certain areas of study or packages that you might need occasionally but not often enough to justify their purchase. The labs also offer spaces to work in groups.

Hardware upgrades: Hardware upgrades, whether desktop computer or server, can be a large investment of IT budget and other resources. With often limitless upgrade options available it is difficult for a non-IT professional to decide what is the best path for upgrades in order to best utilize the IT resources available. Have a professional assist in upgrade planning and implementation to ensure a seamless transition for your IT services.

Network infrastructure/security audits and modifications: An unmanaged network can lead to significant problems such as security issues, equipment failure or lack of redundancy. Data and network services/security are fundamental to business. We can recommend network/security changes to secure your IT resources and provide peace of mind for you.

Software installations, upgrades and migrations: Software changes that aren’t planned and implemented correctly can cause serious IT service downtime which will result in lost of productivity and long lasting IT problems.

New lab network design and implementation: If you’re moving into a new lab or simply want us to validate your network, it is best to build your network correctly and securely. Properly planning and implementing a new network will reduce headaches in the future.

Disaster recovery planning: Disaster recovery planning is crucial when trying to mitigate the negative effects of a disaster to your research group or service. A disaster could range anywhere from a critical server failure resulting in loss of data to a disaster on premises that causes equipment damage or loss. You can help ensure data resiliency by being prepared for any type of disaster.

More: The area of IT is ever expanding such that creating a complete list of services is impossible. The needs of individual groups can vary significantly. If you are unsure of how to proceed with anything IT related please contact us to find out how our IT consultation can help.

Desktop Hardware & Software encompasses a number of offerings, including advice on choosing appropriate hardware, setting up your hardware, installing the software you need, managing your desktop or notebook and providing ongoing support and repairs.

Using recommended hardware and software allows you to receive the best, most efficient support from the CSG. Additionally, the managed desktop offerings for faculty, staff, and researchers relieve departments, research groups, and individuals of the responsibilities and costs associated with managing personal computers. Our software support offering helps you purchase, install and use a variety of software products. And if your computer malfunctions we can diagnose and repair it (certain restrictions apply).