IT Update

Fall 2011 Issue

A Message from the CTO:

Since the last IT Update, significant enhancements to the IT infrastructure at Troy University have occurred. We hope you enjoy reading through the Fall 2011 issue. The statistics, accomplishments and future plans reveal meaningful insight into the work of your IT support staff. The OUCH! newsletter is particularly timely safety tips and suggestions are offered regarding social networking.

The 2011 IT Summit was well-received. Over 300 colleagues participated at the event and 831 viewed sessions through the webcast. Your participation in the event serves several purposes; significant among which is the feedback from forums and surveys. Those elements are instrumental in our annual planning process and constant effort to improve service offerings. We look forward to the 2012 IT Summit.

In the coming year, additional infrastructure projects will emerge, new email system enhancements will be deployed, new interfaces to current systems will be tested and significant changes to the Troy web presences will be revealed.

New technologies emerge constantly; contact IT if you need assistance in reviewing devices and/or software before purchasing. The current hot technology is ultra-mobile computing. Many employees have purchased the devices, believing that they are a suitable replacement for laptops or desktop computers they are not, at least not in the current form. The devices have yet to mature for the business environment in most cases, synchronization with a traditional computer is required, and, due to limited storage and interfaces to pervasive, traditional technology, the devices are not suitable for everyone.

In this issue, we have a link to a security publication, OUCH!, published by SANS. The Troy IT department is a participant in the project, Securing The Human, as the SANS institute; a benefit of our participation is free distribution of the OUCH! security newsletter. The current issue details best practices regarding the use of Social Networking.

As always, continue to practice safe computing habits: do not share login credentials or personal data via email, do not leave applications running on an unattended PC.

Thanks.

W. Greg Price


University Wide News

OUCH! Newsletter

This is the latest issue to a security publication, OUCH!, published by SANS. The Troy IT department is a participant in the project, Securing The Human, as the SANS institute; a benefit of our participation is free distribution of the OUCH! security newsletter.

Click HERE to read the OUCH! Newsletter

IT Summit

Dr. Dew Speaks during the Opening Session of the IT Summit

The Troy University IT Summit was held July 18-19 2011 at the IT Facility in Troy, Alabama. The Summit's intent was to update and educate the TROY community about the resources and solutions offered by TROY IT and to engage in best practices with departments to capitalize on IT resources. More than 300 end-users were in attendance during the two-day event, which focused on "Deploying Cutting Edge Products and Services," "Technology Workforce Development," and "Emerging Technology." In an effort to save travel cost and assist those who could not leave their offices, sessions were streamed live for the first time. There were 38 sessions and 831 end-users who tuned in live via the web. Many of these end-users would not have benefitted from the training if it was not for the live video streaming.

Thank you for your continued support of IT and our technology endeavors - we look forward to 2012.

Opening session of IT Summit
>> IT Summit Photo Gallery

Additions to the Parature CRM

Technical Services have added new divisions to our CRM, Parature helpdesk.
During the Summer Academic Student Services, Marketing, and IRPE were added. Angel is working with several of the Student Services division; Records, Admissions, and Non-Academic Student Services.

The addition of Records, Admissions, and Non-Academic Student Services will allow students to place requests regarding various issues within these areas.

Chat Live with Support

The chat feature has been deployed for many of the University Support areas such as, Information Technology, Blackboard, Remote Proctor, and Instructional Design.

The IT department has also extended the chat hours until 7:00PM on Monday and Wednesday nights. Please feel free to log on and chat with a Technology support rep.

You may use the chat feature by going to the helpdesk website at: https://splash.troy.edu/go-to/helpdesk/index.html and clicking the chat button.

Online Training Portal

Technical Services continues to offer the MS Office and Windows 7 training sessions through the online learning portal. In addition to the standard offerings, Angel Johnson has added all the training sessions held during the 2011 IT Summit to the online training portal as well. These sessions were an enormous success; IT hopes to add additional session throughout the year. If your department would like to add a training guide, please contact the IT department.

The implementation on new online training includes: Word 2010, Excel 2010, PowerPoint 2010, Outlook 2011, What's New in Office 2010, EchoSign, HR Harassment and Discrimination Prevention, Anti-Virus and Malware, Blackberry 101, Digital Measures, Document Imagining, Basic VPN and Datatel, IT Compliance, Identity Theft, Security Essential, and SOS/Emergency Alert.
Please continue to review the online IT Training Portal for new training sessions.
https://forms.troy.edu/cgi-bin/downloadAD.pl?training/online_training/index.htm


Dothan Campus News

Training Sessions

Chris Williams conducted numerous training sessions for faculty and staff at the Dothan Campus. Training covered equipment installed in the new instructor stations installed in 30 classrooms. The instructor stations centralized the teacher resources including: computer with monitor, Elmo document camera, DVD/VCR Combo, and sound system.

IT Summit

The Dothan IT staff presented sessions at the Troy IT Summit including Microsoft Word and 21st Century Classroom.

Ft. Rucker Computer Lab

The Ft. Rucker computer lab has been upgraded and a second computer lab established in the newly assigned 2nd floor classrooms in the Admin building. Additionally, computers and document cameras have been added to selected classrooms. Internet access is also provided by extending the wired and wireless networks to the second floor.

Dothan Campus Computer Lab Upgrades

Two Dothan Campus computer labs have been upgraded with new computers and a fresh installation of software applications to allow faculty and students an enjoyable computer lab experience.


Montgomery Campus News

Upgrade to communication closet

Upgrade to Building 136's communication closet began. Relocation of Ethernet panels and recertification of all 1000BaseT communication outlets, combined with a centralized and enhanced Cisco switching fabric, improves communication speeds, consolidates switch management, provides redundancy and a foundation for a future VoIP implementation. Two of the three floors' convergence is complete; the third floor will be completed by the end of November.

Cisco wireless network expansion

Our Cisco wireless network continues to expand with additional Access Point installations. 3 APs were recently added, 5 more are planned in the next quarter. Cisco switch upgrades in each campus building are facilitating support of 802.11n connectivity and Gigabit Access Point support.

Nursing Computer Lab Upgrade

IT recently replaced the computers in the School of Nursing lab and upgraded the software to Windows 7 and Office 2010.

Gunter Annex Shutdown

Operations at the Gunter Annex have been shutdown and computer/network equipment is being integrated into the downtown network.


Phenix City Campus News

Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) Implemented

Phenix City IT has installed Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to allow local distribution of OS patches and updates to campus computers. This removes the requirement for each computer to download patches from the Internet but instead allows updates to be downloaded from the campus network saving bandwidth and time. WSUS also allows IT to control updates that are applied to the computer.

Phenix City Lab Updates

The Phenix City School of Business labs available for general student use were updated to Windows 7 and Office 2010 in preparation for Fall semester course content. Other software updates were applied as necessary. The labs were also setup to pull updates from the local WSUS server.


Troy Campus News

Telecommunications - Quarterly Report

  • Maintained telephone service at a service level of 2 reports per hundred stations.
  • Responded to trouble reports within 24 hours or less and to service requests within 48 hours or less.
  • Installed message boards in the dorms.
  • Installed wireless Internet connections for IT in various buildings.
  • Completed relocation to Bibb Graves Hall.
  • Assisted in installing fiber for CGI in the Stadium Tower.
  • Completed installation of Emon monitors for physical plant.
  • Assisted IT with security camera installation.
  • Assisted City Utilities with the installation of a pipeline.
  • Consulted with Whaley Construction on the Quad Project.
  • Passed fire inspection in the switchroom and fiber room.
  • Finalized wiring specifications for the new arena.
  • Provided fiber connections for Harris Security.

IT Network Distribution Upgrades

IT Network Division is currently replacing EOL networking equipment across the Troy Campus. Buildings currently completed are as follows: Wright Hall, ELC Building, Softball Building, Tennis Complex, Mitchell Hall, Physical Plant, Bus Shop, Grounds Shop, Alumni House, Sartain Hall, Football Pressbox, Davis Field House, Baseball Pressbox, Baseball Office Building, Soccer Building, Natatorium, CollegeView, Adams Center, MSCX Building, Alumni Hall, Trojan Village 100, 200, 300, and 400, Clements Hall, Honors Cottage, Shackleford Hall, Gardner Hall, Hamil Hall, Cowart Hall, Alpha Gamma Delta, Phi Mu, Alpha Delta Pi, Kappa Delta, Chi Omega, Hillcrest Hall, Paden Hall, Malone Hall, and Student Rec Gym and Adams Administration. The only remaining buildings to complete are Pace Hall, Wallace Hall, and McCartha Hall.

Confucius Institute

IT Network Division has now completed setup and installation of additional equipment and has turned up network services in Bibb Graves Hall for the Confucius Institute. The project consists of wired and wireless connectivity in all Confucius areas.

Bibb Graves Renovation Project

IT has completed all networking projects associated with Bibb Graves Hall including wired and wireless installation, Department moves and printer assignments.

Dining Hall Project

The Troy University Dining Hall has now been completed. IT has installed more than 35 Access Points in the dining areas for 100% coverage for wireless coverage. This includes seating areas outside the building as well.

Network Distribution Re-alignment Project

IT Network Division has now completed the realignment of fiber so that each of the distribution points for the network across campus now has a direct fiber optic feed back to the network core inside Bibb Graves Hall. Previously, several distribution points "daisy-chained" off each other, potentially creating information bottlenecks inside the network.

Network Authenticated Login

Troy IT and Impulse have now implemented the Troy University Intranet "Landing Page" for all Alabama, Georgia and Florida campuses. The Intranet page will be for internal information to be disseminated to entire groups on a quicker scale. Also, users can get assistance with common Network Authentication issues by visiting https://it.troy.edu/networking/nac.html . Feel free to check out the FAQ section as well.

Digital Signage

IT Network Division assisted other areas of IT in providing many Digital Signage devices around campus. These displays can be updated and maintained across the University network from a remote location at any time.

RESNET Bandwidth Upgrade

Troy IT completed the upgrade and deployment of additional bandwidth from AT&T to the RESNET network. The upgrade increases the RESNET bandwidth from 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps.

Online Knowledgebase

IT has been utilizing the Parature Helpdesk for some time now. The network division has been working on some "Self Help" Q&A that has now been posted in the "Knowledgebase" section inside https://splash.troy.edu/go-to/helpdesk/index.html . Please make sure to visit and check this out and feel free to forward us what you think may be addressed as issues that would make self troubleshooting better for everyone.

Department of Human Services

Technical Services completed new PC set-ups for the Department of Human Services, Rehab and Social Work. Three of the old PC's from that department have been reconfigured and will be recycled at Troy University Group Home.

Classroom Technology and Labs

Technical Services updated IT instructions for technology classrooms in COE, GAB and SCOB, also updated the software that is used in all classrooms on campus. This included how to turn on and off all technology equipment in the classroom, how to use the Elmo document camera, and changing video sources and display modes. Faculty and staff will benefit greatly with the instructions and will help them to be more proficient in their teaching environment.

Art & Design MAC Lab

Technical Services reviewed and updated MAC's within the Art and Design lab. Also, updated firmware, checked RAM, and explained to Lab Administrator about lab maintenance and up-keep the lab.

Nursing Lab

Technical Services configured new PC's and monitors for the Nursing Lab.

Library Laptop Trial

Technical Services configured 6 laptops to be used in testing status for the library. These laptops are for student use and have all Microsoft Applications installed.

Payroll Division

Technical Services configured loaner laptops for payroll staff to use after hours for inputting data in Datatel in order to meet end-of-month deadline.

Interpreter Training Program

Technical Services set up mini laptops for Interpreter Training Program in an effort to enhance their technology.

Biology Lab

Technical Services completed a new Biology Lab consisting of 25 PC's and monitors. This will enhance the labs with special equipment in order to use websites and other software during class time. Also, configured Deep Freeze software on the PC's in order to help improve the security of each unit from viruses and malware.

Computer Works Lab

In order to provide students with the best technology possible, Technical Services completed the setup of 41 new PC's for Computer Works Lab. Computer Works is in the process of updating additional labs with new desktops and printers with new technology as well.

Recycled Desktops

Technical Services recycled 7 desktops from ESL Lab in an effort to provide newer and better computers to other staff/faculty members in the International Department in Pace Hall. The ESL Lab received new computers in July and will recycle the old PC's for staff that has outdated equipment.

Admissions

Technical Services set up new laptops for new and existing staff for the Admissions Office.

ESL Lab

Technical Services setup 18 new PC's for the ESL Lab. The old PC's will be used in other labs and for office staff.

Digital Displays

Technical Services completed a digital display project during the Summer. The displays were deployed in high traffic areas in an effort to provide our end-user with up-to-date information and alert notifications.

The alert notification system will displays a message on the screen regarding the type of alert as well as an audible alarm, so student in the dorm rooms can be alerted of any alerts such as bad weather.

Displays have been deployed in the following building.

  • Adams Admin
  • Trojan Center
  • Hamil
  • Gardner
  • Shackleford
  • Pace
  • Cowart
  • Clements
  • Bldg 400
  • Bldg 300
  • Bldg 200
  • Bldg 100
  • Alumni

Projects are underway to deploy displays in Bibb Graves Hall and locations at the Montgomery campus as well.

Bibb Graves Instructional Technology

Technical Services work with the College of Business and Howard Technology in an effort to get all instructional technology classrooms complete prior to the re-opening of Bibb Graves. The instructional classrooms are equipped with the following technology.

Bibb Graves Classrooms
PC with Windows 7
Office 2010
Adobe Flash Player
Java Runtime
Adobe Reader
SPSS 19
Document Camera
Speaker System

Bibb Graves "large" classrooms (all tiered rooms or capacity greater than 40)
Wacom Interactive Tablet

Bibb Graves "standard" classrooms (not tiered, capacity 40 or less)

Interactive whiteboard


Global Campus News

PAETEC Intrusion Detection and Prevention System

In June the Atlantic Region signed an agreement with PAETEC to provide T1 lines and various security products. PAETEC provides a professionally managed MPLS VPN service that uses the latest MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) technology to provide the Atlantic Regions employees with secure access throughout the Atlantic Region network.

PAETEC's IDPS (Intrusion Detection and Prevention System) consists of a set of quadruple-redundant, geographically diverse Intrusion Prevention Sensors (IPS) in line with PAETEC's Network Firewall located at each of PAETEC's eight major internet peering points. A centralized, redundant event correlation engine retrieves information from the IPS, correlates the information, and alerts the PAETEC Security Operations Center, which actively monitors the IDPS service 24 x 7 x 365.

PAETEC's web filtering and reporting product is a McAfee developed product that is maintained through a web interface. The web filtering product will also assist in blocking sites that are deemed malicious such as infected with malware or phishing.

The final phase of this project will take place over the next few months and we are looking forward to working with PAETEC in the future.


University Wide Upcoming Projects

E-mail System Upgrade

Storage enhancements and new calendaring functions will be deployed.

Datatel User Interface

A new web-based interface to the Datatel Administrative system will be tested in the coming months.

Web Redesign

Troy IT is working with Marketing and Communications to develop a new web presence for Troy.

Wireless Re-Distribution Project (Troy Campus)

IT Network Division has been working with the City of Troy on installation of Wireless Security Cameras around the perimeter of campus. These cameras have been installed to assist both Troy University and the City of Troy Police Department in providing additional security features for campus.

Credit Cards for Concessions (Troy Campus)

IT Network Division assisted Sodexho in installing credit card machines in all of the football stadium concession stands. Each concession has at least 1 credit card machine and more are on order. IT and Sodexho are communicating about installing POS cash registers in the concession stands by next fall.


Statistics

24 Hour Days Worked by IT Staff

Time Period Days
Since January 2011 27

Web

Server Average Hits Per Day Unique Visitors Successful Page Hits Total Visits for 2011
www.troy.edu 54,504 838,677 4,866,084 6,218,529
it.troy.edu 1,019 14,311 124,279 49,236
library.troy.edu 1,693 21,861 206,138 190,094
trojanweb.troy.edu 167,106 199,362 20,387,053 1,185,883
wa3test.troy.edu 72 37 8,816 174
admissions.troy.edu 4,542 106,947 554,153 212,140

* Tracking on the Admissions server was activated on May 18, 2011 so the yearly total doesn't include visits that would have occured prior to May 18, 2011.

E-mail

Description Total for 2011
E-mail Messages In/Out 200,187,000
E-mail Viruses Blocked 31,363
Spam Blocked Due to Content 146,480,000

Security

Description Total for 2011
Server Vulnerablility Probes 11,458,153
Completed Security Investigations 41
Troy Electrical DR Tests 19

Intrusion Prevention

Description Total for 2011
Anonymous FTP Attempts 911,175
FTP: Bad Login Attempts 5,159
Spyware Blocked 66,629
Backdoor Trojan Attempts 991
Phishing Attempts 372
FTP: Root/Administrator Attempts 2,045
SSH Login Attempts 1,131,106

Helpdesk Stats

Region ***Total***
Alabama Campus 8,895
Dothan 899
Montgomery 854
Phenix City 535
Troy 6,381
Unspecified 226
Atlantic Region (Troy Assist) 387 387
Southeast/Western Region 2,150 2,150
Pacific Region (Troy, Al) 19 19
Total 11,451 11,451

SOS - sos.troy.edu

Category Total for 2011
System Notices 42
Safety Alerts 23

Video Streaming

Category Events Streamed Hits/Play Minutes Viewed Bandwidth Usage (MB)
Commencement 1 181 2,984 10,393
Convocation 1 466 18,678 67,367
Lecture N/A N/A N/A N/A
Other N/A N/A N/A N/A
Total 2 647 21,662 77,760

2011 IT Summit Video Streaming Stats

Date Description Hits/Play (Total)
7/18/11 Kick-Off 57
7/18/11 IT Roadmap 29
7/18/11 Blackberry - Smartphone 14
7/18/11 PeopleAdmin 16
7/18/11 Datatel-Web U14 28
7/18/11 Visix - Digital Displays 16
7/18/11 MS Word 2010 38
7/18/11 New Employees Orientation 19
7/18/11 EchoSign 19
7/18/11 Google Analytics 49
7/18/11 MOX 22
7/18/11 Adobe 35
7/18/11 HR Harassment and Prevention Training 33
7/18/11 Retention Alert 37
7/18/11 Document Imaging 15
7/18/11 eRecruiter, Student Recruiter 15
7/18/11 MS Outlook 2010 22
7/18/11 iPad 19
7/18/11 eRecruiter, Student Recruiter 12
7/18/11 WebEx 21
7/19/11 Microsoft Live@edu 25
7/19/11 Enrollment Strategies 13
7/19/11 PeopleAdmin 11
7/19/11 Identity Theft 8
7/19/11 Retention Alert 5
7/19/11 Entrinsik, Datatel Reporting 6
7/19/11 New Employee Orientation 37
7/19/11 Enrollment Strategies 19
7/19/11 WebEx 20
7/19/11 21st Century Classroom 26
7/19/11 Email Enhancements 17
7/19/11 Adobe 18
7/19/11 Virtual Desktop 24
7/19/11 Datatel - Web UI4 13
7/19/11 Datatel Forum 23
7/19/11 MS Excel 2010 18
7/19/11 Active Admissions 13
7/19/11 Entrinsik, Datatel Reporting 19
Total 831