The Historical Perspective

In the past, due to the impact of viruses and worms on the NIU network:

• The resources at the ResTech Helpdesk were stretched to the limit by the sheer volume of infected computers that needed disinfecting
• The ResTech Helpdesk’s ability to provide a variety of high-quality technical services and support to residents of the halls was diminished
• Viruses destroyed information on student computers and compromised other computers on the NIU network
• Hundreds of residents’ computers have been so severely infected that they have been removed from the network for days or even weeks
• Network services for many users was interrupted

Why Clean Access?

• As a state institution, NIU is obligated to manage its resources in accordance with industry best practice guidelines and external audit recommendations. The NIU network is one of those resources.
• Cisco’s Clean Access (and similar products) is designed to address critical network management and security issues; such products are already in use on many campuses.
• Cisco Clean Access enables residents to keep their computer updated with the latest Windows security patches and to install and update anti-virus software (free through NIU).
• Clean Access helps residents get on-line and stay on-line, getting the most out of their high-speed Internet connection.

How It Works

• Requires authentication to the network for all persons living in the residence halls.
• CCA performs the following checks:
• Microsoft Critical Updates
• AntiVirus Software Installed
• AntiVirus Definitions
• Enable Windows firewall amd Automatic Updates
• Mac and Linux must authenticate by logging in via a web page.
• CCA is scheduled to re-certify personal Windows machines every 30 days at 5am.
• CCA is scheduled to re-authenticate Mac and Linux every 30 days at 5am.

As always, the ResTech Helpdesk is available to assist residents with computer issues.

Please contact us at (815)753-6267 if you are having problems with Clean Access or any of the services available to you.