Air Force Network Migration to affect Offutt domain users

  • Published
  • By the 55th Communications Group
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  Major changes will be coming to Offutt's computer network as part of a larger project that will streamline cyber operations across the Air Force.

The project, titled the "Air Force Network Migration," will combine all stand-alone network environments into a single, integrated Air Force network structure. In November, Offutt is scheduled to become the next installation within Air Combat Command to migrate its users to the AFNet. This will affect all Offutt organizations and tenant units who login into the Offutt domain.

So how does it affect you? The most noticeable change for users will be the format of your e-mail address. The migration formally replaces the old first.last@offutt.af.mil e-mail address with a standard first.last@us.af.mil address. E-mails sent to your old address will automatically be forwarded to the new address; so there is no need to worry about lost messages. Regardless of the base or organization assigned, this new address will remain with the user for the duration of their employment or affiliation with the Air Force.

The project, which is being implemented by the Air Force Network Integration Center and 24th Air Force, will centralize services and improve network security. Over the years, unique mission requirements and operational concerns drove major commands and various other organizations to stand-up and operate individual e-mail and network services. This approach to networks lacked standardization, adequate security, and was expensive to operate and maintain. A single network standardizes the cyber environment, eliminates redundant systems and services, and reduces costs. More importantly, the new approach provides centralized management of the network under the operational control of a single commander.

Users will also appreciate the convenience of a single network. As more bases join the AFNet, airmen will be able to log into their accounts from any AFNet base without requesting and creating an additional account, allowing easy access to the network during deployments, temporary duty or permanent change of stations. Sites such as the Air Force Portal, Air Force Personnel Center and Defense Finance & Accounting Service will also remain easily accessible, regardless of duty location.

Another major change will involve the migration of multiple customer service help desks into a single help desk called the "Enterprise Service Desk." The ESD is designed to serve as a "one-stop" shop for the resolution of common user problems. Computer issues or problems with user accounts can easily be reported to the same help desk, no matter where an Air Force member is in the world.

As Offutt approaches the migration, a team of technicians from the Air Force Network Integrated Center and 55th Communications Squadron will be preparing equipment and resources to facilitate the migration of all Offutt domain users. To ensure a smooth transition to the AFNet, Offutt domain users are encouraged to look for future electronic advisories that will provide additional information related to the migration. Offutt users can also visit the AFNet Migration SharePoint site at https://offutt.eim.acc.af.mil/55thWing/AFNET_Migration/default.aspx for more information.