Loyola Netreg
Every semester all user registrations will be deleted in preparation of the start of the next academic term. Everyone will need to re-register any wireless connected device. Additionally, students living in the dorms will also need to re-register every device they plug in to the network.
How does it work? The NAC system provides a small program that is run on your computer. The program either runs once and erases itself. If the program detects that your system is not up to the appropriate standards, you will not be allowed on to the network until you fix the identified problems with your system.
What standards does it look for? The NAC program is checking to make sure that you are running a current operating system, that you have installed certain identified security patches, that you are not running certain peer-to-peer software programs. If you are running a Windows system, it also checks to make sure that you are running antivirus software and that yourt antivirus definitions are up-to-date.
What is Network Access Control? Network Access Control (NAC) is a way to control what devices are allowed on Loyola's network. This helps to ensure that Loyola's network is used to serve the University's instructional, research, health care, administration and public service missions.
Why does it check for peer-to-peer software programs? Peer-to-peer software programs use up a significant amount of Loyola's network bandwidth. While certain programs, such as BitTorrent, have legitimate uses, most are used to download copyrighted materials without the permission of the copyright holder. Those programs which have no legitimate uses are banned on Loyola's network, and a computer running any of those programs will not be allowed on the network until the program is uninstalled.
What peer-to-peer programs do you check for? Currently we check for LimeWire and Ares. Additional programs may be added as they become problematic. BitTorrent will be allowed because there are legitimate uses for it. However, this does not mean that all BitTorrent downloads are legitimate. It is up to you to ensure that what you are downloading via BitTorrent is something that you are legally allowed to download.
Are you scanning my machine for personal information about me? No. We are only checking to make sure that your computer meets certain minimum security standards, and that it is not running certain peer-to-peer software programs. Some information about your computer (such as the operating system that you are using and what antivirus program you are using) is collected, but no personally identifiable information (such as your Social Security number) is collected. The program also does not collect any information about your Internet browsing habits or what files or programs you are using.
STUDENT SUPPORT: Students needing assistance with Loyola Netreg should contact the department of ResNet. ResNet is free "Best Effort" assistance available for students to provide support with their personal computers and electronic devices connecting to the university network and to assist students resolve computer related problems.
