Help for Bowdoin Windows 11 computers, including clock and power settings, installing Windows updates, finding your computer name, and fixing common laptop notifications.
Explains how to check and correct the Windows clock when it does not adjust automatically for Daylight Saving Time or a change of time zone. Covers turning the automatic time setting off and on so Windows resyncs with the internet time servers. Applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using Windows 11.
Explains how to locate the Computer Name (PC Name) on a Windows computer through the Settings app, and how to find the Dell Service Tag on a laptop, desktop, or all-in-one that will not power on. Having this identifier ready helps the Service Desk look up the system quickly. Applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using Windows 11.
Explains what to do when a Dell laptop shows a startup message warning that a lower wattage power adapter, USB-C charging device, or power pass-through device is connected. The laptop is safe to use, and this article shows how to dismiss the message so it does not appear again. Applies to Bowdoin faculty and staff using Dell laptops with Windows 11.
Explains what to do when a Windows laptop shows a Slow Charging notification while plugged in through a USB-C adapter. Covers connecting the power adapter directly to the laptop and turning off the slow charging notification in Windows settings. Applies to Bowdoin faculty and staff using Dell laptops with Windows 11.
Explains how to quickly hide desktop items on a Mac or Windows 11 computer for a meeting or screen share. Covers hiding all items, moving items into a folder, tidying with Stacks, and hiding system or device icons. These options change only what appears on the desktop and do not delete files. Applies to college-owned or personal computers.
Explains how to run Windows Update manually so you can install available patches and quality updates on your own schedule rather than waiting for the automatic weekly installation. Covers opening Windows Update, checking for updates, installing them, restarting, and verifying installation. Applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using Windows 11.
Explains how to change the sleep and hibernate power-saving settings in Windows 11 through the Settings app, including how long the PC waits before sleeping on battery and while plugged in. Applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using Windows 11.
A practical security guide for Windows 11 covering the most important steps to protect a personal or Bowdoin computer: keeping the operating system and web browsers updated, turning on Windows Security and the firewall, using strong passwords, and locking the screen. Applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using Windows 11.
Instructions for switching from a Wi-Fi connection to a wired Ethernet connection on macOS or Windows 11, including plugging in the cable, turning off Wi-Fi, and confirming the wired connection is active. A wired connection is often faster and more stable than Wi-Fi. Applies to Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students on campus.