Securing Desktop Environment
We have been working on a solution to combat the constant threat of viruses to the Clarkson University network. To create a secure environment and to help faculty, staff and students keep ahead of the challenge, we have implemented a package for all PCs and electronic equipment that access the campus network. The security program is designed to provide a reliable network for academic work. This is a three-part program:
- Symantec Anti-Virus Corporate Edition download
- Automatic Windows Update
- Network Registration System
Symantec Anti-Virus Corporate Edition is being offered free of charge to all campus constituencies. This anti-virus is managed but not intrusive. We use it to push virus definitions out to the user community.
Bundled with this program is an automatic configuration of the Windows Update process. As Microsoft updates Windows in response to Windows vulnerabilities, your system will automatically run those updates as they become available, often within 24 hours. Users of non-Windows operating systems need to keep their systems up to date as well.
The Network Registration System is a tool that provides contact information on owners of all electronic devices (desktop computers, laptops, printers, and wireless devices) that connect to the Clarkson University network. The campus network can be severely impacted by a single piece of equipment and it is important that owners be contacted quickly to resolve any issues. Information that is collected includes your operating system, web browser, username and MAC address. Unregistered systems will not be given Internet access. There is no limit to the number of systems you may register. You will be prompted to re-register annually.
We are increasing the emphasis on network security. Any student who connects hardware or runs software that significantly degrades the network will also be subject to fines and/or loss of network privileges. Practices which negatively impact the network include but are not limited to the following: incorrectly setting up a network firewall or wireless access point, spamming, originating a denial of service attack, failing to keep anti-virus updated, failing to keep your operating system updated (Microsoft Windows, Linux, MAC OS X, etc.), disproportionate use of network bandwidth and any other activity that is in violation of the Acceptable Use Policy found on Clarkson’s web page: http://www.clarkson.edu/studentaffairs/regulations/ix.html#F.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact the HelpDesk at xHELP or at helpdesk@clarkson.edu.