Workstation Remote Management Guidelines

IT Services has software tools which will allow us to remotely manage and access Microsoft Windows or Apple Macintosh computers. Remote Management software automates tasks such as software updates, and can provide computer configuration information to IT Services. Remote access software allows our staff to view the client computer as if we were physically present. We can use these capabilities to find and install software, perform updates, repair problems, and assist clients with their computers. Since secure computers are essential to the efficiency and security of the data network, we ask for our clients' full cooperation in maintaining these tools. If these security tools are compromised or removed, IT Services may remove network access until the situation is corrected.

IT Services staff will remotely access client computers under certain, specific conditions. The guidelines for the Computer Labs are somewhat different than those for faculty and staff computers. Both are outlined below.

Faculty and Staff Computers

The remote management and access products installed on faculty and staff computers are installed to provide a means for better service to faculty and staff customers of IT Services.

• The client software may be installed on any faculty or staff computer owned by the university.
• To assure that only IT Services administrators will connect to workstations, the client software is configured to use the most secure method of establishing credentials available.
• When possible, the remote access client is configured to present indicators that an administrator is attempting to connect. The remote management client may not present indicators as it is designed to work with minimum obtrusiveness.
• The remote access software is configured to indicate to a person viewing the client computer monitor that an administrator is connected.
• The client computer can be managed and, if necessary, accessed without physical user intervention at the computer being controlled.
• The remote access software will be used only for the following:
  • Resolution of service requests such as software problems or software installation.
  • Remote assistance.
• On computers where IT Services administrators can connect without client approval, only permanent IT Services staff will be able to remotely connect. On computers where the client must approve the remote connection, IT Services permanent staff and student employees may be able to remotely connect.
  

Lab Computers

The remote access products are installed on computer lab workstations managed by IT Services. They provide a means for better management and maintenance of lab computers.

• Remote access is secured so that only authorized faculty at a teacher's station in the lab or IT Services staff can gain access remotely.
• There may be no indication to a person viewing the client computer monitor that an administrator is connected.
• The client software is installed such that the lab computer can be remotely managed and accessed without physical user intervention at the computer being controlled.
• The remote access software will be used only for the following:
  • Lab workstation maintenance and repair
  • Remote assistance
  • Furthering student instruction

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Last modified: July 07, 2008