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U.S. Air Forces in Europe is charging forward with the Air Force
initiative to standardize all Windows-based computers by Dec. 31.
This change will provide every USAFE network user with a standard PC
configuration and enhance network security.
Desktop standardization is not new to USAFE users – USAFE implemented
the Standard Integrated Desktop more than 24 months ago. “We have
gained significant lessons learned from our experience that will aide
significantly in this Air Force project, called the Standard Desktop
Configuration,” said Master Sgt. Kelly Burkhard, USAFE Computer Systems
Squadron, Section Chief, Technical Support Branch.
Although the SDC significantly alters the configuration of the computer
software, the transition will be relatively painless. Users may notice
minor changes in the desktop environment and upgrades to common use
applications. Additionally, the SDC will remove administrative
privileges from the normal user and prevent unauthorized downloads,
upgrades, and software installations.
USAFE SDC implementation goals are: 15 percent command-wide by July 31;
70 percent command-wide by Sept. 30; 100 percent command-wide by Dec.
31.
Users are not required to prepare for SDC; however, some precautions
are advised. “We recommend network users ensure all data to
include .pst files be stored within ‘My Documents’ in user profiles and
create a back up,” said Sergeant Burkhard.
Immediate manual installs of the SDC will be required for workstations
that are currently exempt from the USAFE SID where exempt applications
are compatible with the SDC. USAFE is engineering an automated tool to
be used for all other workstations. This tool will run after duty
hours. Affected users will be notified in advance to allow time
for backing up data.
AF information technology officials said all Air Force bases should be operating with SDC by December.
For more information on AF SDC, go to https://afecmo.gunter.af.mil/.
