Tech Guides :: Connection :: Wireless Access :: Wireless Security :: FAQ
Wireless Security FAQ
What are you looking for?
The Client Security Agent (CSA) will scan your computer, looking for the following things:
- An up-to-date Operating System
- Operating System patches
- Anti-Virus Software (with up-to-date patches)
What information are you collecting?
- Operating System
- Operating System patch level
- Anti-Virus Software
- HSU User Name
- MAC Address
Are you looking at my personal files?
No. The CSA is only looking at what operating system, patches, and anti-virus software you have. It also gathers your HSU User Name and MAC address so we know that you are already registered the next time you try to connect.
What are you changing?
The CSA file is downloaded to your computer. Once you register successfully, the file is deleted. We do not change any of your files or settings.
How often will I get scanned?
You will be required to register and have your computer scanned at the beginning of each term and after any major Academic breaks (Spring and Thanksgiving). A scan may also be initiated if there is a widespread security vulnerability.
What happens if I fail the scan?
If your system does not meet one of the requirements, you will be notified on a web page. Your computer will be quarantined, and you will be provided with a web page that will allow you to download required updates or anti-virus software for your computer. Once you have updated your system or installed required software, reboot your computer then re-run the CSA.
I've passed the scan, but I end up at the registration web page. What do I do?
It takes 30-60 seconds after you get a "success" message for your computer to be able to access the network. If you have waited and still can't connect to the Internet, reboot your computer. If you still can't connect, visit the Help Desk in Library 120B.
What's required?
For security reasons, it's always a good idea to keep your system patched and protected. Keeping your operating system current and protected by anti-virus software (Windows users only) will help protect you both on campus and off.
A Current Operating System
In order to pass the security scan, you will be required to have one of the following operating systems (minimum Service Packs or Patch Levels are also indicated):
Windows*(How can I tell?)
- 2000 (SP 4)
- 2003 Server (SP 2)
- XP (SP 2)
- Vista
* Newly released Windows Service Packs will become required after 3 months.
Macintosh**(How can I tell?)
- 10.2.6 (Jaguar)
- 10.3.6 (Panther)
- 10.4.7 (Tiger)
- 10.5.0 (Leopard)
** OS X patch level must be within 3 recent releases (e.g., if the highest patch level for OS X 10.4 is 10.4.11, you could have 10.4.9, 10.4.10, or 10.4.11).
Linux
- All Distributions
Handheld Devices
- All models with wireless capabilities
Current Patches
Make sure that your Operating System has received the most recent software patches. Windows machines must have ALL "Critical" Updates, including the Geniune Advantage Tool. Newly released Windows Service Packs will become required after 3 months. OS X patch level must be within 3 recent releases (e.g., if the highest patch level for OS X 10.4 is 10.4.11, you could have 10.4.9, 10.4.10, or 10.4.11).
If your system isn't configured to update automatically, here are some links that will help you get going:
Current Anti-Virus Software
Windows users will also be required to have anti-virus software installed. We've compiled a list of anti-virus software packages that work with our system. Most are configured to download updates automatically. Check to ensure that you have the most up to date anti-virus definitions.
How can I stay protected
Make sure that your Operating System has received the most recent software patches. If your system isn't configured to update automatically, here are some links that will help you get going:
Make sure that your anti-virus software gets virus definitions automatically. See your software's "Help" files for instructions on how to do this.
