Responsible Computer Use in a University Environment
Everyone in the university community shares the same computer network that provides access to e-mail and the Internet. It is a valuable, useful, but finite resource for students, faculty, and staff. We share responsibility to use the computer network appropriately so that it will continue to meet everyone’s computing needs.
Information Technology Services encourages everyone to practice responsible computer use! Some of the benefits of doing so are virus-free computing, a fast, uncongested network, and reducing the receipt of unwanted or offensive e-mail.
Attaching a computer to the NIU network in the residence halls
Whether attaching a computer via Ethernet or wireless, a process called Clean Access will require you to register your computer’s MAC address and verify that any computer running Windows has the latest security patches and updates. In addition, you must install the McAfee antivirus software provided free through NIU.
Attaching a computer to the NIU network outside the residence halls
Whether via wireless or community data ports, you are responsible for updating your own operating system and browser with the latest patches. In addition, you should install antivirus software and update virus definition files regularly. Failure to update your system may result in being blocked from use of the NIU network.
Practicing responsible computer use means:
- Know how to use the network appropriately. Review the Acceptable Use Policy at www.its.niu.edu/aup.
- Protect your account and yourself by making sure to log out when you finish working on a computer.
- Install the latest operating system patches and browser updates to make sure your computer is allowed uninterrupted access to NIU’s network. Microsoft Windows updates are available at update.microsoft.com
- Check regularly for viruses and keep virus scanning software up-to-date by downloading virus definition updates regularly.
- Disable file sharing settings on your computer. File sharing can make your computer act like a server allowing anyone on the Internet access to your computer’s hard drive. Not only does this activity harm the NIU network, you may be doing something illegal. The unauthorized distribution of copyright-protected material is prosecutable. For more information, see File Sharing.
- Do not send offensive or harassing e-mail.
- When working in public areas, be aware that others may see your screen and be able to view private, personal, and sensitive text and graphics.
- Do not send bulk or SPAM e-mail.
- Report all abusive, offensive, or harassing e-mail to abuse@niu.edu
