The Managed Cluster Service (MCS) is earmarked for evolution as part of the future of managed desktops from UIS; we are currently planning to deliver a new Desktop as a Service (DaaS) offering.
The MCS is now in 'maintenance mode' to allow us to focus our development resource on delivering the new Desktop as a Service.
The MCS will, of course, be patched and kept secured, but there are two important changes for IT managers and teaching staff to note:
1. Changes to enhancement requests
All requests for future enhancements to the current MCS service will now only consider changes to applications that need updating due to expiration of licencing, or a security vulnerability, or a change to an application which MUST be implemented to maintain its functionality.
How to make an enhancement request
To make an enhancement request, contact the Desktop & Systems Manager:
dsg-manager@uis.cam.ac.uk
All requests MUST include the following information:
- application affected
- date needed
- teaching requirement
- contact details.
You should expect a response within 7 working days.
2. Changes to new supported MCS hardware
Only PCs selected from the University Dell Premier page are now accepted on the MCS.
Please see the following pages for more details:
https://help.uis.cam.ac.uk/service/desktop-services/mcs/for-it-staff/mcsinsitutsupport
https://help.uis.cam.ac.uk/service/help-support/mac-support/appleinenterprise
MCS applications required for teaching
All teaching must be tested well in advance on an MCS Workstation with the currently available application.
MCS support requests
General MCS support requests – i.e. anything that was working and has now stopped must be made via the UIS Service Desk:
servicedesk@uis.cam.ac.uk | 01223 (3)32999