Returning to campus - IT information
This article contains information about bringing IT equipment back on to campus.
Return to campus computer check
The return to campus computer check sets out what you must do before you can bring your University provided desktop or laptop computer back on to campus.
Who needs to complete this check?
The table below illustrates who needs to complete the check, and also what devices are allowed to connect to the wired network.
In summary, you must complete the return to campus computer check if:
- you are returning to work on campus and are bringing your University provided laptop or desktop computer back with you
- you are returning to work on campus and your computer on campus has not been used or switched on in a while
You do not need to complete the return to campus computer check if:
- you are returning to work on campus with a personal device
- you are a contractor working on campus with a personal device
Only checked and allowed computers will be allowed to connect to the University's wired network.
How to complete the return to campus computer check
| Step | What to do |
| 1 | Move any local files to the cloud If you’ve been saving your work on local drives, such as your desktop or C: Drive, you’ll need to move these files to either your MyBox or OneDrive. If you already save your work in the cloud you don’t need to worry about this. |
| 2 | Check for computer viruses It’s important you check that your computer is not infected with any viruses or malware. Skip this step if CrowdStrike is already installed on your computer (see how to check). a) To install CrowdStrike antivirus, sign in to the Software Hub using your University username and password. b) If this is your first time using the Software Hub, follow the setup instructions shown on screen. c) Once set up and signed in, search for “CrowdStrike” (top right search box) and choose Launch. d) Once installed, CrowdStrike will scan for threats automatically. |
| 3 | Book a remote appointment with our IT technicians Book a remote appointment with our IT technicians. Our technicians will configure your computer so it can reconnect to the University network. We’ll also run some checks to ensure your computer is in good working order. This should take no longer than 30 minutes. These checks must be made before your computer will work on campus. Please do not come to the IT offices or IT Helpdesk. |
How to return your computer if you don’t need it anymore
Please let us know via our equipment return form.
You can then return it to us yourself, including accessories and packaging, to:
- Colchester Campus - Post Room
- Southend Campus - Gateway Reception
- Loughton Campus - Hatfields Reception
If you’re unable to return the equipment yourself, you can arrange a collection via the return form.
Before you return your computer, move any local files or data from the computer to your MyBox or OneDrive cloud storage. Moving these files to the cloud means they will be accessible anywhere.
