Coming Back to the Office? Here are a few things to consider and a few steps you can take to address some of these considerations.
Prior to joining any UTexas Network:
If your machine is not managed by CNS IT, please consider asking CNS IT to set it up for management. This reduces your need to "harden" your system(s) to meet the minimum requirements needed to navigate the UT network. You can also start by installing our Nessus Agent (so just curious, is there a particular reason to put these on Box? I can and dont mind, but the installers are available here: https://security.utexas.edu/nessus-agents#automating-deployment.This app sends user and system vulnerability information to the campus Information Security Office. It also helps identify any systems that might need extra attention to ensure they are not compromised or suffer ransomware attacks while on the UT network. If you are using a personal machine, we advise that you work with your department to obtain a University-owned device. If you are an instructor, you may request a system from CNS-IT via our help form: https://cns.utexas.edu/help. Please note that this is limited to one machine per requestor. The system is replaced every 4-5 years depending on the state of the system.
Joining any UTexas Network:
If you have been out of campus for a while, chances are you probably need to reconnect to the utexas wireless network. Steps to connect to the network are here: Connect to utexas Wireless Network
Some buildings have now employed what is called General Networks. This service acts similar to wireless in that it requires that you sign in with your EID. Once this process is completed, your system is then inventoried against your EID.
Mac: Connecting to General Networks: macOS
Windows: Connecting to General Networks: Windows
Alternatively, every port activation now requires that you identify details for the machine to be connected. Please be sure to supply everything from the list below when submitting a port activation request.
Department:
Building:
Room:
Wall port:
Type of device (computer, phone, printer, instrument, microscope, etc):
Operating system:
UT Tag if available:
Are other devices connecting to it (if so please detail):
Do you need remote access from on/off campus to this system:
Is this for research or administrative use:
If this is a computer, will this be dedicated to a single-user, multi-user, or will it not have a defined user?:
This detail should be sent to help@cns.utexas.edu
Hardware Replacements:
ATTENTION: Please note there are significant manufacturing delays with technology at the moment so the sooner you get your order/request in, the better your chances are at having that system up and running for Fall 2021.
Is your hardware older than 6 years? Consider a hardware replacement!
University Data:
Employees should make an effort to utilize UTBox (https://utexas.box.com) to store all University Data. There are so many benefits that can easily improve workflows and help units organize and take control of data.
https://box.csod.com/LMS/catalog/Welcome.aspx?tab_page_id=-67&tab_id=-1
Alternative to UTBox: Microsoft OneDrive:
Backups:
Every UT employee should make the effort to ensure they have a backup of their critical university data. The University utilizes Code42 (UTBackup). Managed machines have the app installed but there are many factors that can prevent a backup from running. Always make sure to review whether or not you have a current backup.
Find out which macOS your system is using:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201260
OS Min Requirements
The University of Texas at Austin’s network access Minimum OS requirements:
Steps to take with an Upgrade:
Before performing any upgrade, it is best practice to check that your hardware is doing ok. Most failed OS updates occur because the system is having technical issues that need to be addressed. You can perform some of these steps on your own. NOTE: If you run into errors, please submit a ticket to CNS IT and supply the error messages you have received.
Steps to Check if your Hardware is having Technical Issues:
Steps to Upgrade your system:
ALERT
Always verify your critical applications are compatible with the OS you intend to install. NEVER upgrade unless this step has been completed!
♦ I can't upgrade and am not in compliance. What's next?
There are certain instances that qualify for exceptions. If you feel strongly that you cannot proceed with these steps and must have an exception filed for you, please submit a ticket so that we can facilitate the process for this.
TICKET: https://cns.utexas.edu/help
Campus Tool Updates
Tools are always getting minor updates and changes. To see the latest, click here: