The University of Nevada, Reno is saying goodbye to Google.
Some current students and alumni may need to get some files off their account before it's too late.
UNR originally told students their university email would be for life, but that's not the case anymore.
They'll be switching to Microsoft fully after all these years.
Currently, the university is operating with two email systems.
The students use Google, while the faculty use Microsoft.
So, merging them together, they say, will make it easier to share and communicate.
They also say a big reason is it just got too expensive.
"Maintaining multiple environments is expensive, and then it also increases the threat surface so when you look at all that from that perspective, I'm confident this will give a more positive student experience," said Sasi Pillay, Vice President for Information Technology Services, UNR.
Pillay said the university pays $80,000 a year for the Google Workspace, on top of paying for Microsoft.
In the past, Google didn't charge the university, so that's how they were able to provide the "Email for Life" program. But they're looking to cut down on costs.
Another benefit for making the switch, according to Pillay, is the cyber security is stronger with Microsoft.
Their IT department can better manage and supervise phishing to protect students' information.
"I would say very often I get emails from students who have been victimized through phishing in the Google environment and that environment is not managed or supervised by us, where the Microsoft environment is," Pillay said.
May 24 is the deadline for students and alumni to move their files off their account.
Alumni were also sent emails on how to transfer their files.
Not everyone is happy with this decision, but the university says it's what's best.
"As you know, a certain percentage of people are not happy with the decision. We are not happy with the decision either," Pillay said. "At the end of the day, we want to preserve as much financial resources for the betterment of our current student community."
Some current students don't seem to mind the change.
"Mostly what I use Google for is just Google Docs anyway," said James Moore, Student at UNR. "So, as long as I can use some sort of word processor or sheets with Microsoft, I think it should be alright."
Current students have access to their Microsoft account and can use it freely, but the university wanted to give the students time to move their files and not disrupt them in the middle of the semester.
For alumni, if you need help accessing your email and/or maybe forgot your password, you can reach out to their IT department in the link below.
