Computing Policies for Students

Email Policy

Refer to Student Email policy.

Network Policy

Refer to UW's Knowing the Rules. The guidelines, policies, and laws referenced on this page are intended to help you to use computing and networking resources appropriately.

Use of the UW computing network is made available to those who work and study at the UW and also to those who are a part of the UW communitiy. We welcome authorized use of the UW systems for research, learning, teaching, administration, and outreach to the community.

Authorized use carries with it the responsibility to know the rules that govern the use of UW computers and networks. Many of the laws and policies are as you would expect. Note, however, that the UW also has some restrictions that apply to us as a state agency.

Do not share your UW NetID or your NT Logon passwords

Each person at the UWB has his or her own UW NetID and NT Logon and password. It is against policy to share yours with someone else. For more information about UW policy, refer to Ethics in Computer and Network Use.

It is also important that you do not share your passwords inadvertently:

  • Do not send passwords in email, even when using "secure" email programs. Many such programs only encrypt the password used in making the connection, sending the bulk of the message as clear-text.
  • If you enter your UW NetID or your NT Logon password into a Web site, be sure you exit all open Web browsers when you are finished.
  • Avoid saving your UW NetID password in telnet, ftp, Web, and email programs. The problem with saving the password is that it will be written into a file on your hard disk. Intruders may find and retrieve this password file, giving them full access to read, write, or destroy your files.

Electronic Devices in the Classroom Policy

A Joint Resolution of the UW, Bothell EC and ASUWB - November 18, 2003

  1. An instructor can choose to ask students to switch off cell phones,
    pagers, laptops or similar electronic devices if they are disruptive to the
    classroom experience.
  2. Students may use laptop computers in the classroom to take notes or
    do work that is relevant to the class. Checking or sending e-mail, playing
    games and surfing the web are considered disruptive activities when the
    class is in session.
  3. Per the Student Conduct Code (Chapter 1, Section 2, Part III)- An
    instructor has the authority to exclude a student from any class session in
    which the student is disorderly or disruptive.

Hardware Support Policy for Personal (Non University-Owned) Computers

The Information Technologies Helpdesk generally does not perform hardware maintenance or provide specifications for privately owned computers or peripherals. The Helpdesk does provide support for access to UWB delivered services, but is unable to make recommendations for non-university service providers or maintenance technicians. The Helpdesk can also help in determining a customer's need and recommending an appropriate combination of hardware and software solutions. In cases where the customer identifies critical need, the Helpdesk may provide "how-to" assistance or data recovery services for issues related to academic or administrative goals of UWB.