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Computing HelpDesk

Hours:
Mon-Thu: 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 3:00pm - 9:00pm
(when classes are in session)

Exceptions:
Follows JMU's schedule for inclement weather. 
Exceptions for Academic Year 2011-2012

Remote Access Best Practices

Following is a list of “best practices” for Windows users. We recommend WindowsXP for all remote Windows users.
The RUNSAFE site (http://www.jmu.edu/computing/runsafe) provides additional detail and instructions to help make your computing experience as safe as possible.

  • Use the NTFS File System

  • Keep your operating system patched

  • Apply security patches for other software such as Office, instant messaging software, etc.

  • Run the JMU-provided Symantec AntiVirus software that auto-updates itself, is supported, and is provided for free

  • Require a password to use the computer; set password policies and enable account lockout

  • Do not share passwords between accounts or people

  • Disable password caching

  • Disable remote login to administrator account

  • Disable any unnecessary accounts on the computer (e.g. Guest)

  • Create strong passwords for all local and remote accounts including shares (especially accounts with administrator-level privilege)

  • Use a firewall (either hardware or software)

  • Configure Windows to show full file names with extensions

  • Set up Internet Explorer so trusted sites are in the trusted zone and set the security level for the Internet zone to high

  • Setup and use a non-privileged account on the computer for general work

  • Disable file and printer sharing

  • Turn on auditing and increase security event log size

  • Keep important files backed up

  • Ensure you are complying with the Data Stewardship Policy for any JMU data you access (http://www.jmu.edu/JMUpolicy/1205.shtml)
    Keep computer turned off when not in use

  • Be cautions about entertainment and shared use. Children and other users should have restricted accounts. Entertainment and non-business use should be    minimized (music, streaming media, games, etc.) This is particularly important if you access sensitive information (e.g. elevated privilege accounts, confidential student/employee information, critical processes like payroll)

  • Under no circumstances should remote access to sensitive accounts be performed from computers whose security, maintenance, or installed software is unknown (kiosks, labs, internet cafes, hotel computers, neighbors, etc.)

  • Downloaded software, utilities, enhancements, patches, etc. should only be installed from trusted vendor and distribution sites