Information, Resources and Updates for KidCheck Users
Using KidCheck on a "Previously Loved" PC
Because KidCheck is a 100% web-based system it really doesn't take any additional PC horsepower to make it run well outside what it takes to make the O/S run. As a result, the system will run really well on any old or donated PC that can run Windows XP or later. But a "free" PC can still have it's issues, so here are a few tips to make sure your "new to me PC" provides your parents with the best possible experience.
1) Blow It Away! - As with any computer where you don't know what's on it or where it's been, ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS re-load the operating system before you plug it into your network or use it for KidCheck. Virus, Spyware, messed up Windows registries... Any of these can and will at least impact your experience with KidCheck and at worst, introduce an unknown malware into your network.
2) Update It - Since you'll be starting with a new load of the O/S (in case you missed it, see #1) once you have it all up and running go and get all of the Microsoft updates for your new check-in station. (Including the latest version of Internet Explorer) Once all the updates and service packs are loaded, go back and check for updates again. Often there are updates for the updates. (I love my Mac, so don't get me started)
3) Install a Good Anti Virus System - You will definitely want a good antivirus system on your new PC. We've used all of them and have come to love AVG. It's not only cheep (http://free.avg.com) but is also fast, has the least impact on performance and works well with web-based applications. (If you're running Norton, it has a history of causing licensing problems, cookie issues and ActiveX load problems which can make your roll-out frustrating)
4) Run the KidCheck Station Installer - This is available from within KidCheck in the Check-in tab. This will place a link on your desktop and start menu that will run KidCheck in full-screen "kiosk" mode that will prevent folks from browsing to other sites while check-in is running.
That's pretty much it. Following these will take you some time, but the dividends are well worth the lack of headach down the road for sure.
1) Blow It Away! - As with any computer where you don't know what's on it or where it's been, ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS re-load the operating system before you plug it into your network or use it for KidCheck. Virus, Spyware, messed up Windows registries... Any of these can and will at least impact your experience with KidCheck and at worst, introduce an unknown malware into your network.
2) Update It - Since you'll be starting with a new load of the O/S (in case you missed it, see #1) once you have it all up and running go and get all of the Microsoft updates for your new check-in station. (Including the latest version of Internet Explorer) Once all the updates and service packs are loaded, go back and check for updates again. Often there are updates for the updates. (I love my Mac, so don't get me started)
3) Install a Good Anti Virus System - You will definitely want a good antivirus system on your new PC. We've used all of them and have come to love AVG. It's not only cheep (http://free.avg.com) but is also fast, has the least impact on performance and works well with web-based applications. (If you're running Norton, it has a history of causing licensing problems, cookie issues and ActiveX load problems which can make your roll-out frustrating)
4) Run the KidCheck Station Installer - This is available from within KidCheck in the Check-in tab. This will place a link on your desktop and start menu that will run KidCheck in full-screen "kiosk" mode that will prevent folks from browsing to other sites while check-in is running.
That's pretty much it. Following these will take you some time, but the dividends are well worth the lack of headach down the road for sure.
Comment
© 2012 Created by Alex Smith.
Powered by 
.
You need to be a member of KidCheck Users Group to add comments!
Join KidCheck Users Group