To ensure your child's device runs smoothly and is protected against threats, it should be regularly updated while at home (Education Queensland firewalls prevent these updates from occurring).
Microsoft Office
Kingston State College students can download and install Microsoft Office 365 free of charge on up to 5 devices. Download at office.com (school email & password required) and click Install Office.
Internet browser
Some websites display differently on different browsers. We recommend having at least two installed.
- Microsoft Edge - fast and light, installed on most Windows machines.
- Google Chrome - best compatibility with most websites. Download for free.
Other applications
Autodesk apps
Autodesk apps are used in some design, graphics and engineering subjects and includes industry standard apps such as AutoCAD, Inventor and Revit.
Download from Autodesk website. Remember you must have a Windows OS for these free software packages to work properly.
Lynda.com
The State Library of Queensland (SLQ) now has free access to Lynda.com for all Queensland residents. To access this excellent resource so that you or your child can learn computer programs, please:
1. Join SLQ by clicking Here
2. Once you have joined up with SLQ, and have a username and password, click Here
Backing Up
As we all know, technology can fail and data can be lost or stolen. It is extremely important that students have a backup plan in case things go wrong. Backing up data is easy. Once set up, your data should be backing up automatically. You just need to check every once in a while to ensure your data is being backed up properly.
1. Local Backup
Every day, copy your most important files onto an external hard drive next to your desk, in your cupboard, or any other place where you can easily retrieve it.
2. Cloud Backup
Similar to a local backup, this involves simply installing Microsoft OneDrive (part of the Microsoft 365 package that is free to all EQ students) on your computer to instantly and automatically copy your files to the internet. This makes multiple copies of your files at various places around the world, making it hard to lose any of your files.