(Basic information for understanding a network)

 Windows NT – Windows NT is an operating system.  In other words, it is the way the computer or server works.  Other operating systems that you may be more familiar with are Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 3.1, or DOS.

 Workstation – Each individual computer is considered a workstation.

 Server – A server is used to run a network.  It makes it possible for our computers to communicate with each other and for us to communicate with the outside world.  In our case, it is also a safe place to store all of your information and files.  The server is backed up weekly while your computer or workstations in your room are never backed up.

 Domain – We are part of the MLS Domain.  A domain is basically a group to which all of the workstations and users belong so they have access to the server.

 *** If you get an error statement that says something about cannot find the MLS domain, that means that you are NOT logging into the server.  You need to contact the Technology Coordinator as soon as possible.

 *** The statement that usually follows that is something to the effect of Do you want to log in using your local profile?  You should answer NO.  (See below)

 Local Profile – That means that you are logging into the machine ONLY.  You are not logging into the network (or server).  That means that you won’t have access to your files that you have saved on the server, you won’t have access to email, and you also won’t have access to the Internet.

 Roaming Profile – Your roaming profile is what allows you to log into any computer in the school system and have access to your personal files.

 *** If you HAVE logged into a computer using your local profile, make sure that you contact the Technology Coordinator so your network connection can be reestablished.  After you connection has been fixed, you may get a message that tells you that your local profile is newer than your roaming profile.  It then asks if you want to use your local profile.  ANSWER NO.  You always want to use your roaming profile.