Texas Tech University

IT Security and Network Connectivity

Although convenient, public wireless connections are typically not secure. Your home or personal Wi-Fi system also may present security risks. TTUnet Wi-Fi service on campus is secured using industry standard and proven security practices. However, most public Wi-Fi available in retail stores, hotels, airports, and conferences are configured for convenience rather than security.

  • Public Wi-Fi Precautions:
    • Avoid using public hot spots for important transactions, such as transactions that require a login. You should not make financial transactions or use credit cards over public Wi-Fi.
    • Be sure to log out when you are done.
  • Home Wi-Fi Precautions:
    • Change the default password when setting up your home Wi-Fi.
    • Enable your Wi-Fi router's strongest security features, such as WPA2.
    • Disable remote administration (a feature on newer Wi-Fi routers that allows administration of the router from the Internet).
    • Make sure your home Wi-Fi access is password protected because "drive-by hackers" or your neighbors could gain access to your wireless network, steal your personal information, or participate in illegal online activities that could trace back to you.
    • Be selective about providing access to your home Wi-Fi to guests.
    • If a department wants to provide a supplement for employee's use of an employee's home network connection, they'll need to work with Human Resources and Administration and Finance.
  • Create and use strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
  •  Install anti-malware/anti-virus software on your computers and devices; For personal devices, we recommend using your operating system's built-in security features or an anti-virus product of your choosing. TTU-owned computers should be running Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MSDfE). Please contact your department's IT support personnel for assistance. 
  • Update operating systems, anti-malware/anti-virus software, application software, and mobile apps.
  • Institutional IT resources have been vetted to ensure compliance with mandated and best data security practices in order to protect institutional data and information resources. When a personal software tool or social media account is used for course delivery, student and TTU data may be jeopardized and the institution may be in violation of state and/or federal data protection laws. These tools may include Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and free or personal versions of vendor-provided tools that are already available through the university (e.g., Zoom, OneDrive, Adobe, etc.).
  • Use screen locks and passcodes on your devices.
  • Back-up your content.
  • Wi-Fi in Campus Parking Lots

Additional Information:

 

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