Base prepares for AFNet migration

Published Sept. 13, 2011
By 21st Communications Squadron

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Peterson Air Force Base is scheduled to start migrating to the Air Force Network Oct. 3. The transition is expected to take 11 weeks to fully implement. The AFNet migration is part of an ongoing service-wide effort transforming cyber operations and establishing a centralized Air Force Network under a single commander's direction.

This migration does not include NORAD, NORTHCOM and ARSTRAT networks. Their operations will remain as-is.

During the migration, user impacts will be minimal and in most cases transparent. The most visible change will be the designation of a new email address that all military, civil servants and contractors will keep for the duration of their career, employment or affiliation with the Air Force. The migration will replace the old first.last@yourbase.af.mil email address with a standard first.last@us.af.mil email address, allowing central management of these accounts.

Another recognizable change will be the around the clock access to email and network services such as the Air Force Portal, Air Force Personnel Center, Defense Finance Accounting Services, and any other sites requiring authentication. Through the use of a common access card and static email account, Airmen who are TDY, deployed or in PCS status can communicate and manage personal information through an Air Force CAC enabled computer. AFNet migration also eliminates the past practice of deactivating and creating accounts when personnel change bases. This change will immediately make Airmen more productive and effective when they arrive on station.

In preparation for the migration, the communications squadron recommends users reduce the size of their mailbox by deleting unnecessary files and moving others to personal folders. For assistance, contact the Peterson Communication Focal Point at 554-COMM or your local CSA.

This transition facilitates a standard network "freeze" prior to all Air Force migrations which will occur at Peterson beginning Sept. 19. During this period, Air Force network experts will be scanning and "blueprinting" the network as Peterson prepares for the transition. All network changes will be paused until users migrate.

Each organization will be receiving specific AFNet migration information as their transition date approaches. Squadron commanders, CSAs and each user will receive email and desktop alerts notifying them of their upcoming transition.

For additional information on the Air Force's AFNet migration, contact the Peterson Communications Focal Point at 554-COMM.