Recommendations prior to your session
We’re really excited about your upcoming session with SSL. Here’s a list to help you prepare, which may save time and $$ on the day. We recommend being aware of the following, and please contact us if you need help or clarification. If you don’t really understand what it’s all about, don’t worry as we can talk you through it. Part or all of this may be relevant depending on your topics, needs, and if it’s an onsite or remote session.
Apple ID's (this will be an email address and is now called “Apple Account”) associated with individual computers or mobile devices we’ll be dealing with along with their password/s. Hint - you use this ID for any App/Music Store downloads amongst other services with Apple such as iCloud ie. it is simply your account with Apple.
Have all of your Apple devices that you use nearby and ready, along with their relevant device passcodes for access, or computer admin usernames/passwords.
Backups - we strongly recommend having a backup of anything important from your mobile devices and computers that we’ll be working with. This is a precautionary measure and something that everybody should do as a matter of course. Depending on the nature of our visit a backup may be essential before we proceed (note: this can be very time consuming). Backup of data is the user’s responsibility. If you need an external hard drive for backing up your computer let us know in advance and we may be able to bring one along (Sydney only) and set it up to do automatic backups. SSL is a LaCie Reseller - please visit their website here to see their great products.
Operating Systems (MacOS or iOS) - Please have the latest version of your computer operating system where possible/relevant, MacOS (downloaded via App Store Updates or now System Preferences/Settings) to save time rather than waiting for this to happen when we’re there, but if you're not confident please wait. The same applies for your mobile operating system iOS or iPadOS accessed via Settings-General-Software Update. Important: Make sure you have a full backup prior to updating just in case! Also, if an upgrade to the operating system on your Mac is taking place eg. MacOS 13 “Ventura” to the current MacOS 15 “Sequoia” please be aware that in some cases your version of 3rd party software (those not made by Apple) may no longer be compatible once you upgrade, or may need to be reinstalled from the original website. Ask for more details.
Data download limit with your ISP (Internet Service Provider) - This is important as in many cases we’ll need to download data (eg. software updates and new operating systems) and this will be reliant upon the arrangement you have with your ISP and speed of your internet connection (determines time it takes). Many plans are unlimited now but best to check.
Internet and all email usernames & passwords - we will need these during the session to set up email or make any changes on devices. It’s also important to know the company who hosts your email in the case of business emails where you have your own domain eg. john@johnsdomain.com An email host example is Google’s G Suite/Workspace, and there are many Australian domain registrars and hosts eg. Crazy Domains
Wi-Fi (wireless internet) username (SSID) & password to connect devices wirelessly to the internet at home/office
Write a list of anything you would like us to cover in the session eg. features, specific tasks, any problem areas etc. If we’re attempting transfer of information from an old computer (notify in advance if Windows or Apple) to a new one please list all of the items you would like. Note: data transfer can be very time consuming.
To get the most out of your session you may like to send this list to us prior to your session (DO NOT send any passwords), and please be aware that if it is anything 3rd party eg. other equipment or software not made by Apple, then you will need to confirm beforehand if this will be within our scope.
Should you need to cancel or change your session, a minimum 24 hours notice is requested otherwise the relevant minimum charge (1 hr in person or 30 mins remote) will be applicable.
My highlights from latest Apple Event September 2024