Introduction

The intent of this acceptable use policy is to provide rational guidelines for the appropriate use of the University of Windsor's computing and networking facilities, including both hardware and software. The policy recognizes that deliberate, malicious use of these facilities has been, and will likely continue to be, rare. The policy further assumes an attitude of co-operation, goodwill, and appropriate network "etiquette" on the part of university faculty, staff and students using our central facilities. The approach is therefore one of broad guidance rather than restrictive control.

Interpretation, application, and possible modification of this Acceptable Use Policy shall be within the sole provision of the University of Windsor. The University of Windsor will be able to provide better service for users of its computing facilities if this policy is followed.

General Principles

1. The Computing and networking facilities of the University of Windsor support instructional, research, public service, and other intellectual pursuits by students, faculty and staff that are consistent with the university's mission.
2. Since campus network services enable open scholarly communication on a world-wide basis, they are subject to the acceptable use guidelines established by regional and national networks (e.g. Onet and the Internet). Individuals who make use of these external networks should familiarize themselves with the application guidelines, copies of which are available from Computing Services.
3. Anyone using an external network, or an administrative system, requires a unique ID and password.
4. The holder of a computer ID and password is responsible for protecting campus computing facilities from unauthorized access by keeping the password confidential and by changing it regularly.
5. The holder of a computer account shall be liable for any misuse of campus computing facilities which takes place using that account.
6. Computing Services reserves the right to disable a computer account during periods of investigation and review.

Acceptable use

Generally, any computing or network communication activities which fall within these general principles are considered acceptable use of campus computing and networking facilities.

Unacceptable use

Confirmed incidents of unacceptable use will result in sanctions ranging from verbal warnings, to revocation of computing privileges, to expulsion and criminal prosecution. Unacceptable uses include:

1. Uses that violate federal or provincial laws, or university bylaws and policies such as those concerning information confidentiality.
2. Any uses that unduly interfere with the work of others or with the work of the host systems. This includes, but is not limited to: unauthorized use of a computer ID or password; seeking information about or attempting to modify the University's computer security system; knowingly propagating computer viruses or electronic chain letters; gratuitously consuming large amounts of systems resources, e.g. CPU time, or deliberately crashing the machine(s).
3. Unauthorized copying of proprietary software, publications or files.
4. Uses of commercial software that in any way violate the applicable licensing agreement.
5. Uses related to commercial activities including, but not limited to, distribution of advertising material, offering network information or services for sale or personal gain, and private enterprises.
6. Computer information that portrays either men or women or their body parts in a pornographic or derogatory manner.
7. Using the University's computing facilities as a staging ground to crack other systems.

Re-printed from the University of Windsor Acceptable Use Policy published by Computing Services. © University of Windsor.

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