Macintosh Users – Managing Your Network Data Storage Space
New process initiated at login for OS 10.8 or higher
The first time you login to your Macintosh, a popup window will appear requesting you to either accept or
deny the automatic backup process available from GVSU IT
Understanding where your network data storage space is located:
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GVSU Office Users may store up to 100 GB of data on IT servers which gets backed up automatically
Network data storage space is intended for GVSU Work related files.
o Personal pictures, music, movies, etc. should be kept outside of the Documents folder
All Macintosh Office Users have one of the following:
o OS 10.6 Users
 All users will be converted to OS 10.8
o OS 10.8 or higher
 A backup of their local Documents folder on a server specifically for backups ONLY.
 Upon login, a network server with your login name will appear on your desktop. When
the backup is complete, the server will automatically dismount.
 Located in the Applications Folder, is an application called GVSU Backup Options. To get
the following options, double click the application icon.
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Note: All Macintoshes come with Time Machine and GVSU strongly encourages users to utilize it to
backup their Macintosh, in addition to the GVSU backup option
Options/procedures for reducing network data storage space backed up by IT
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Identify files/folders no longer needed and delete them from the network data storage location
Identify files/folders that are not frequently used or can be stored elsewhere for historical purposes
o Option 1: Create a folder outside of the local machine Documents folder and move files/folders
to this location
o Option 2: Move the files/folders to an external drive
o Alternative backup strategy is the responsibility of the individual
Failure to comply may result in incomplete backups and/or loss of data.
Questions/concerns should be directed to the Information Technology Helpdesk at [email protected] or by
calling 616-331-2101