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Computer Policy for the Geological Sciences Department

  • Windows and Mac computers coming onto the network must have the necessary anti-virus programs installed upon them, have the latest updates and have the system set up to automatically update the system software and the virus definitions. To complete these steps, the user must
    1. remove all anti-virus softwares other than the current version of Brown's current anti-virus software.
    2. For Macs install Clam XAV. For Windows install MS Security Essentials. These packages can be downloaded from http://software.brown.edu/dist/index.html . There must be daily automatic updates of the virus definitions on the computer.
    3. manually update the system's critical patches and service packs. On Mac OS X systems the program is under the apple in "Software Updates." On Windows XP it is "WindowsUpdates" located above the "Start" button; and
    4. set the system updates to automatically update daily. For Macs, go under the apple to "System Preference"/"Software Update". Check "Check for updates: Daily." For Windows XP go to the "Control Panels"/"Automatic Updates." Check "Automatic (recommended) - Automatically download recommended updates for my computer and install them" choosing "Every day," and set a time for regular daily updates.
  • All computers will have the strictest firewall definition possible while maintaining the full functionality of the machine necessary for the users' work.
  • Before going on the network all computers will be registered in the Department's computer database maintained by Margaret Doll. The user should email Margaret Doll with the type and model of computer they are using, the computer's operating system, the room in which it will be used and the mac ethernet id or Windows hardware or physical address of its ethernet card.
  • Before going on the network all Windows and Mac computers will be checked out by Departmental Computer Coordinator, Bill Collins, to see that they have met the first three requirements. Unix computers other than Macs will be checked out by the other Computer Coordinator, Margaret Doll.
  • Read the the computing policies and for acceptable use of computers at Brown University.
  • Read Departmental Computer Security Statement