The Division of Information Technology will be installing routine security updates to our servers and network infrastructure from 1:00am until 7:00am on Friday, January 28th. Systems that cannot be safely updated through this automated process will be manually updated by IT personnel during staff hours. The Banner Student Information System will also be down for maintenance. Users working on documents stored on the “P-Drive” should ensure they save their work and close those files before updates begin Friday morning.

As a reminder, performing monthly security updates on our systems is a requirement under USG IT Handbook Section 5.11.1 (Software Patch Updates). These updates are an essential defense against hacking, tampering, data exfiltration, or related cybersecurity threats because they fix flaws in software that are either prone to exploitation or actively being exploited across the Internet.

We would also like to encourage everyone to take a few minutes this weekend to review their laptops, phones, tablets, and other devices to ensure they’re up to date with the latest security fixes. Consumer routers also require security updates to provide the best Wi-Fi service to your home and protect your devices from hackers and malicious software. Check the device manufacturer’s support website for specific instructions and how-to guides for updating your device. You can read more about updating and securing your router in the following Consumer Reports article:

https://www.consumerreports.org/digital-security/ways-to-boost-router-security/