Thinking of buying a Microsoft Surface Pro?

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What has changed?

The Microsoft Surface Pro is a tablet computer built by Microsoft.  It runs the same Windows operating system as your desktop or laptop computer and can run the same software applications .  It should not be confused with a non-Pro version which runs a special tablet version of Windows that does not run the same applications as your desktop or laptop computer.

The Microsoft Surface Pro is now an institutional standard as defined in Policy AD2515.  All units at the University of Victoria may choose to purchase a Microsoft Surface Pro if it meets their needs.

Why is it now a standard when it was previously not recommended?

The Microsoft Surface Pro was previously not recommended for the following reasons:

  1. Its hard drive is not serviceable and Microsoft does not offer a “Keep Your Drive” warranty option like our other standard computers.
  2. It can only be purchased online from Microsoft, making returns and exchanges more difficult.
  3. It must be to be mailed away for warranty repairs.

We spent a significant amount of time investigating alternative Windows tablet options from Dell and Lenovo that provided “Keep Your Drive” warranty options, could be acquired through standard procurement processes, and could be repaired on site.

Due to lack of viable alternatives that provided the same experience and functionality of the Microsoft Surface Pro, the Microsoft Surface Pro was selected as the standard.

What do I need to know if I want to buy one?

In order to ensure your Microsoft Surface Pro meets data security and privacy standards, you must:

  1. Ensure your device is encrypted using enterprise encryption.  Your local support person or the Computer Help Desk can help you ensure this is the case.
  2. Ensure data is securely erased before your device is mailed away for repairs.  Your local support person or the Computer Help Desk can help you ensure this is the case. (Note that this may not be technically possible depending on the nature of the failure, so encryption is still the best practice.)

How do I buy one?

Follow the instructions on the Technology Solutions Centre website, or contact your Desktop Support Analyst.