Information Technology uses a Network Access Control (NAC) system, SafeConnect by Impulse. Computers connecting to the network in the residence halls and from anywhere on the wireless network are required to authenticate through the SafeConnect system. This product provides many enhanced capabilities we believe are essential to helping keep our IT environment safe and secure.

A registration process and policy key installation is required for all Windows and Mac OS computers connecting to both the network in the residence halls as well as the wireless network across campus. The SafeConnect Policy Key is part of the university's effort to help you keep your computers as free as possible from viruses, spyware, and operating system security holes. Machines protected in this way generally perform much better and experience much less downtime due to damage caused by malicious software. The result is a more secure, reliable, and predictable IT network infrastructure that is easy and cost-effective to maintain.

The SafeConnect system checks your computer to ensure that the operating system is up to date. IT recommends you automatically download recommended updates and install them. Operating systems and software applications on all platforms may have vulnerabilities which, when exploited, can enable viruses and worms to infect your computer and spread across the network.

In addition, you should have an anti-virus software package installed, running, and updated with the latest virus definitions. IT also recommends you install one of the several anti-spyware software applications available. Spyware can compromise your computer enabling other people to gain access to your personal information.

Certain types of devices do not use a policy key and will require authentication, such as gaming consoles and mobile devices. Guests on campus will not install the policy key or authenticate to the wireless network.

A list of frequently asked questions is linked to the left. For additional assistance, please contact the IT Help Desk (online: webhelpdesk.valpo.edu, email: it.helpdesk@valpo.edu, or phone: 219.464.5678).

You can read more about the SafeConnect system and Impulse at their website, impulse.com.