Dear Campus Community,

The University of Memphis takes information security very seriously and is committed to appropriate actions that safeguard University data.  The following initiatives will strengthen our information security posture:

1. Enhanced network firewall controls – Effective November 12, 2018, the University will implement configuration changes to our network firewall to restrict unapproved externally-initiated incoming network traffic.  Most users will not be impacted by this change since most network activity is internally-initiated outgoing network traffic.  VPN access will still be allowed, and exceptions will be made for legitimate University network traffic.  To request an exception in advance, please contact the ITS Service Desk using the contact information below.
2. Expansion of multi-factor authentication – The University will expand multi-factor authentication (Duo) to all employees to provide an additional layer of security.  Beginning November 1, employees on-boarded will be registered for Duo and begin using multi-factor authentication.  All other employees will be registered effective February 4, 2019.  Employees may opt-in for Duo now.   Students may also opt-in for additional protection.
3. Expansion of IT Security Awareness Training – The University understands the importance of employee training in minimizing IT security risks, and we are expanding our IT Security Awareness Training program for employees.  Beginning November 1, new employees will be registered for IT Security Awareness Training.  All existing employees will be registered for training effective November 1.  Annual training will be available through February 1, 2019 for fiscal year 2019.

ITS will host an Information Security Fair on October 25, 10AM-2PM in the University Center in observance of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, and we hope you will take advantage of that opportunity to meet our staff and learn more about these initiatives.  Additional information about these initiatives may also be found on the ITS security website located at https://www.memphis.edu/its/security/initiatives.php.  For assistance, please contact the ITS Service Desk by phoning 901.678.8888, emailing umtech@memphis.edu, or visiting https://umhelpdesk.memphis.edu.

All of us have a role in protecting the University, and I appreciate in advance your cooperation and support on these initiatives.

Regards,

Robert Jackson
Chief Information Officer

The University of Memphis network upgrade project is proceeding according to schedule.  Building switches and existing wireless access points have been replaced.

Individuals should use the following appropriate wireless network:

• um – Primary wireless network for use by UofM students, faculty, and staff.
• um-guest – Temporary access for campus visitors that requires sign-in every 24 hours.
• um-devices – Connect wireless devices such as gaming consoles, wireless printers and streaming devices to this network.
• eduroam – Visitors to UofM whose home institutions participate in Eduroam can connect to this network using credentials from their home institution.

University employees and students should connect their smart phones, tablets, and computers to the um wireless network.  Accessing the um wireless network will require authentication with your UUID and password.

During the fall semester, ITS will continue to expand wireless network coverage by deploying additional access points, and testing will begin for implementation of the final phase of the network upgrade scheduled for winter break.

For additional information, please visit the webpage on wireless.  If you need assistance, please contact the ITS Service Desk at 901.678.8888.

ITS will implement a change in its Service Desk Call Center availability. Effective Sunday, May 6th, 2018, the ITS Service Desk will be available from 8:00 AM until 12 AM , seven days a week, excluding some holidays. Incoming calls after hours will be handled by voicemail services. If you require assistance after 12 AM, please leave a message or submit a service request. Messages will be checked daily and receive priority response the following business day. Thank you for your attention to this announcement and for your cooperation.

Daylight Experience is on the Horizon

Beginning May 5, 2018, eCourseware will have a brand-new look and feel. The Daylight user layout in eCourseware makes it easy to navigate courses. From the visual look and feel to how users interact with eCourseware, Daylight helps ensure a best possible experience. Whether you’re a Faculty member setting up a quiz or a student uploading an assignment, the process should be simple. Daylight makes it easy to find what you need so that you can get things done faster. With new fonts, layouts, and color scheme, Daylight makes a great first impression. Its design invites users to dive right into their eCourseware experience and is accessible to those using assistive technologies.

For training, videos and updates see our Daylight Page.