Security

Repurposing or disposing of old computers

Computers that have been used by UT faculty or staff are likely to contain institutional data and require a little extra care.

If a computer is being repurposed for a new employee or new use, it must be reimaged.  You can request this be done by submitting a service request.

Computers that are being sent to surplus must have their hard drives removed and brought to the ITS Helpdesk at FAC.  See http://www.utexas.edu/its/hddestruct/ for more information.

In addition to computers, any computer media like floppy disks, tapes and CD's should be carefully reviewed before throwing away.  If there is any possibility that it ever contained Category 1 information or if there is any doubt or concern, then the media should be brought to the FAC for destruction.

Exceptions to both of these requirements can be considered on a case by case basis.  Submit a service request if you would like to request an exception.

Software Security Settings

With an increase in viruses coming from the web, staff and faculty were having to stop their work and let IT fix their computer.

To protect your work and your time, we have configured computers managed by ITG to not run software unless it is specifically allowed or you decide you want to run it.

For more information, contact the ITG Service Desk.

Password Policy and Tools

Most Cockrell School of Engineernig systems use your UT EID and EID password.  You can manage this password using the EID Self Help Tools

Never share this password with anyone and only use it for UT systems.  There are frequent attempts to trick you into giving this password.  Typically you will receive a "phishing" email urging you to change your password to continue using your account.  Do NOT click on the link or provide your password.  Just delete the email.

Local Administrator Policy

Use a standard account when operating a computer on a daily basis. A standard account is an account that has ONLY the authorizations you need to do your work while protecting you from malware.