Hello everyone.
A while back, I told everyone about UTIA IT0304P - Network Registration Procedures. The
procedures are for properly registering your Institute-owned IT assets so the
Network Registration (NetReg) database would have the assets’ correct
information. The database looks like we are doing a great job of registering
those devices, so I thank you so much.
I have noticed that once a device is
registered, it doesn’t get updated very often, if ever in some cases. The
information in the database is so helpful to me, Network Services, and Audit
& Compliance, but not if the information is incorrect. I would like for you
to keep this in mind and update for the following instances:
-
Your
computer has been reimaged with a newer version of operating system (e.g.,
Windows 8 to Windows 10);
-
A
computer is taken out of service;
-
You
are no longer the owner or user; and/or
-
You
change the location where the computer will be used, even if it is just the
room number.
Why is this information so important?
If Network Services sees a computer on the network that is exhibiting odd
behavior, they may need to know exactly where it is. I may get a call about a
computer and I need to track down the current user. Audit & Consulting may
use the data in NetReg when performing an audit. For instance, if they are
auditing a department and want to know how many Windows 7 computers are on the
network (there should be zero!), then they may use NetReg to pull a list of
what is showing there.
If you have a computer that you need
help changing the NetReg information, you can call the OIT HelpDesk at (865)
974-9900, and they can help. Or you can send me an email and let me know about
it. I’m always here to help you.
I have just two more quick things to
mention. First, if you are running a server (a computer that manages access to
a centralized resource on the network), definitely keep NetReg updated. We will
be doing server inventory on or around March 31 and September 30, on an annual
basis.
Second, there is a change coming to
the VPN. This Wednesday, OIT will be changing how we log into the VPN.
Authentication will change to the Central Authentication Service (CAS) that is
used by so many of our other apps, such as Vault, SUPER, Banner, Zoom, K@TE,
myIRIS, etc. You will find more information about the change here.
I can’t believe another month is just
about gone! I sure hope everyone is staying safe and healthy! J
Sandy