Eielson Upgrades to Windows Vista Published Aug. 4, 2009 By 2nd Lt. Kevin Baker 354th Communications Squadron EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Starting on Aug. 10, Eielson Air Force Base units will begin to get Windows Vista uploaded on their desktops. Per direction of the Department of Defense, the Air Force is working to upgrade all computers to Windows Vista by Dec. 31. PACAF has directed a suspense for all PCs to be compliant by Oct. 1. Benefits of the upgrade include the user's ability to add their own printers, and Sharepoint Web Folders will be accessible in Windows Explorer. Another benefit includes the 'Instant Search" function in the Start Menu which allows users to easily find files and folders on their desktop. The 354th Communications Squadron is working with PACAF to plan the smoothest transition for Eielson's users. The CS will work with each unit's Information Assurance Officer and Equipment Custodian to specify which computers will receive the upgrade to Vista. Units will be upgraded to Vista overnight and a CSA will be at the unit the following morning to fix any technical issues that arise. The 354th CS requests assistance from all users while the roll-out begins. When a unit is informed of the upgrade date, users need to log off and leave their desktop on that evening. To ensure information is not lost, the 354th CS also requests that users back up their profiles in their My Documents Folder and burn it to a DVD-R. If you have any questions about the upgrade to Windows Vista, please contact the Helpdesk at 377-2666 opt. 1 or 2.