In an effort to assist students in keeping their software updated while maintaining a virus free computer, the university’s Information Technology department has adopted Cisco Systems’ “Clean Access” program.
Operating for the 10th year, Clean Access was designed to ensure that computers being operated by students, faculties, and staff, possess the minimal security requirements needed to maintain a healthy and efficient software system. Through the program, students are provided the opportunity to acquire free anti-virus, anti-spyware, and frequent Microsoft updates.
Thomas de Q. Jefferson, director of user services and information technology services, said, “When you make an investment in a personal computer, you certainly want to protect that. Computer viruses are a huge issue, not only in academia, but in all walks of life. We want students to gain knowledge about what it takes to maintain a good computer. The significance of this program lies within the fact that it gives students a preview of what to expect and how to deal with software issues so that they can take what they’ve learned here and apply it to their future endeavors.”
Beginning its first year here at PVAMU, the Clean Access program was implemented after it was mandated by the federal government and the state of Texas. With 34 new computers placed in Farrell Hall’s computer laboratory, and 120 new computers placed in Coleman Hall, the need to install Clean Access was important so that new and old computers can be updated and run effectively.
Another aspect of the university’s decision to undergo changes in IT, deals with the growing market of cyber crime. Cyber crime, as Jefferson explains it, is any type of malicious intrusion into a network or computer for the purpose of breaking laws or invasion of privacy. Actions linked to cyber crime range from password hacking to identity theft. Ways to avoid cyber crime are safe surfing, frequent changes of passwords, and password protection.
Jefferson and his colleagues also advise students to avoid all SPAM that comes through the inboxes of e-mail accounts. In many cases, these messages are the ones that ask for usernames and passwords, which no legitimate institution practices. In addition, students should also avoid downloading applications that may allow outside users access to the inner workings of their software system. Ares and Lime Wire are two of the main applications that are examples of these potentially threatening programs.
Luis-Pablo Grijalva, chief information officer for SunGard, said, “In reality, this tool (Clean Access) is for the students’ own protection and benefit. It makes sure that your computer isn’t experiencing security issues, while keeping the system up to date with software.”
According to Sally J. Stevenson, SunGard’s director of academic technology, schools nationwide have already resorted to utilizing Clean Access, including the University of Notre Dame, the University of Michigan, and Southern University in Baton Rouge. Grijalva, Jefferson, and Stevenson believe that the new program is the best solution for software related issues. Students seeking to take advantage of new software updates should visit www.pvamu.edu/pages/5875.asp.