Introduction

This guideline covers the usage of the Missouri Southern State University’s campus network by occupants of the university’s student residence halls. With the use of a network interface card (NIC) it is possible to connect computers in resident hall rooms to the campus network. Connections of this type allow access to Internet resources. For technical requirements of connecting a computer to the campus network please read the documents (Wireless Connection for XP, Vista, Wired Connection, Computer Requirements) or contact Information Technology Services Help Desk (Spiva 2nd Floor Circulation, ext. 4444).

Rights and Responsibilities

Computers and networks open many avenues to resources and exploration both on campus and worldwide. Such access is a privilege and requires that individual users act as responsible network citizens. Users must respect the rights of other users, respect the shared nature of the systems and related physical resources, and observe relevant laws, regulations and contractual obligations.

This Acceptable Use Policy is a dynamic document that will change as new issues arise or further clarification of topics is required. If questions on acceptable use arise that are not directly answered by this document, the user should be conservative and consider it unacceptable use until clarification, amendment, or exception to policies can be made by the appropriate university representative.

All users are responsible for the following regulations and policies:

1. All existing laws (federal and state) and university regulations and policies apply, including not only those laws and regulations that are specific to computer and networks, but those that may apply generally to personal conduct.
2. As part of the Missouri Research and Education Network (MOREnet) users accessing the Internet through MSSU’s networks are bound by the MOREnet Acceptable Use Policy in addition to other civil and university regulations. The current MOREnet Acceptable Use Policy is available for review at MOREnet’s Internet site: http://www.more.net/.
3. Unless given a written exception by the Assistant Vice President for Information Services for the safety and security of the MSSU information systems it is necessary to observe the following restrictions:
   1. The connection provided to the student is for one computer only. Devices or software intended to share this connection with other computers are not allowed. Examples of such devices are routers, gateways and Windows 98 Internet connection sharing software.
   2. ISP, WEBTV, BBS or other modem connections are not allowed
   3. Only Computer Center installed DHCP/IP, TCP/IP and IPX/SPX connections are permitted. NetBIOS and NetBEUI are not allowed.
   4. Peer-to-Peer networking through Windows or other methods is not permitted.
   5. No inbound TCP connections are allowed from off-campus locations.
   6. No UDP connections less than 1024 are allowed from off-campus locations.
   7. TFTP, RLOGIN, RPC/PORTMAP, NFS, REXEC, SYSLOGD, RWHO, UUCPD services should not be used.
4. Unless given written exception by the Assistant Vice President for Information Services for the equitable sharing of limited resources it is necessary to restrict the following activities for computers attached to the campus network. These restrictions prevent disproportional usage of network bandwidth and server resources.
   1. Playing of bandwidth-intensive multi-user network games (MUDs, MUCKs, etc.) on campus or through the Internet is strictly prohibited.
   2. Using mIRC and other CHAT type applications on campus or through the Internet should be used judiciously. No restrictions yet apply, although excessive demand of bandwidth may require limiting the hours they may be used.
   3. Serving as a FTP or other download site is not acceptable
5. If the user is found in noncompliance with this or other university policies, access to the information resources of the university may be suspended by the Assistant Vice President for Information Services. While not an exhaustive list, specific violations that may result in disciplinary action including loss of computer privileges are as follows:
   1. Sending unsolicited, annoying, threatening or obscene messages or mail.
   2. Fraudulent or abusive use of computer accounts, networks or other information resources.
   3. Intentionally and knowingly breaking U.S. Copyright Law and software licensing agreements.
   4. Damaging hardware or software belonging to others.
   5. Knowingly introducing or transporting a computer virus or other destructive program to computers on campus or on the Internet.
   6. Reading, attempting to read or examining another user’s files, data or mail without express consent to do so.

Disciplinary Action

Misuse of campus computing facilities shall be reported to the Assistant Vice President of Information Services. This administrator will impose restrictions on the offender’s computer access, and report the incident to the Dean of Students, the Vice President of Business Affairs, or the Vice President of Academic Affairs, whomever is appropriate.

Please be aware that violation of U.S. or MO laws may result in legal and/or civil action. Students may be referred to the Student/Faculty Hearing Committee Board if found in violation MSSU rules and regulations outlined in the Student Handbook. Prosecution under applicable laws will also be pursued.