In this edition of OIT’s Technology News, we highlight the results of the 2017 Student Technology Needs Assessment, how machine learning is defending campus systems, the positive impact of Microsoft Certifications for staff, protecting yourself from hard drive failure with CrashPlan Pro, plus much more. Continue reading OIT Technology News: Spring 2018 Summary
New Ordering Site for Tech Purchases Coming Soon
Each year, several hundred computer orders are processed across campus. This process involves coordination between the Purchasing department and OIT. In reviewing the ordering experience as well as the time delays for some orders, we decided to make some major improvements.
Early next month, we will launch a new technology ordering site. This site will allow you to order computers, tablets, monitors and a few accessories for departmental purchases. Below are some of the key improvements to the ordering/installation process: Continue reading New Ordering Site for Tech Purchases Coming Soon
Windows 10 Deployed to Classrooms This Summer
Windows 10 is already the standard OS for faculty and staff computer deployments. However, we have maintained Windows 7 as the standard throughout all labs and classrooms this past year to provide a consistent experience for faculty and students in these spaces. We are no longer able to purchase computer hardware that will run Windows 7. As a result, all managed computer labs and classroom instructor stations will be upgraded to the latest OS this summer. Continue reading Windows 10 Deployed to Classrooms This Summer
OIT Helps Physics Researchers
When some Physics researchers needed a few dedicated computers for running experiments, they reached out to OIT Customer Service Director Rachel Mulry to see if she could help. The requirements for the computers were minimal compared to current university standards but had to be stable enough to run their experiment and priced within their small budget. Within 24 hours, several laptops were found that could be donated to meet the needs of the ATLAS experiment. Continue reading OIT Helps Physics Researchers
Protecting Campus from Malware with Machine Learning
CylancePROTECT was introduced to the SMU campus in 2016 as a way to further secure SMU systems against viruses and malware. As the University became regularly inundated with malicious files, employees could not be expected to keep up with the volume and complexity of these new threats. As the threats evolved, so did our method of protection – machine learning. Continue reading Protecting Campus from Malware with Machine Learning
