ITS Help Desk
Have technology questions or problems? The ITS Help Desk is here to help. Please stop by or email (helpdesk@denison.edu) or call (740-587-6395).
Security Alert! Java Information from Denison’s Information Security Office
As you may be aware, the Department of Homeland Security recently issued a warning about the software plugin Java. Attackers are using Java tools to take control of computer systems.
Java is a programming “add-on” that allows your local computer to do things so that the system you are using/visiting doesn’t have to do those things for you. This makes some web experiences run faster and look “smoother” than if all that traffic had to go back and forth between your computer and the web site. Unfortunately, Java has a long history of vulnerabilities and flaws.
Homeland Security recommended removing the installed Java tools completely, but this is often not possible or practical. For example, here at Denison, folks that access our Banner and Blackboard must have Java installed and enabled to use the system. Denison’s Information Security Office provides the following recommendations based on the type of computer you are using…
- University-owned computers: If you have a university owned computer, we do not recommend that you update Java yourself. There are known compatibility issues with Java and the products that use it, including Banner and Blackboard. The ITS staff will automatically provide updates, including security updates, to both Windows and Mac computers as they are tested and verified. If you upgrade manually, you may encounter problems with software applications.
- Personally-owned computers (students, faculty, staff): There are steps you can take to reduce the risk associated with Java. These range from removing Java entirely to enabling it in only one browser that you use only for sites/services that require Java. For details, please see “What is this Java thing anyway?” [pdf].
New "How Do I...?" resource
Having trouble connecting to the DU network or campus printers? Not sure how to do something in Blackboard? We've collected all our online guides & documentation and made them available together in our "How Do I...?" area. Note that this content will move to the new MyDenison in the summer of 2013.
Windows 8 Support FYI
In light of the recent release of the Windows 8 operating system, we want to set appropriate expectations regarding support.
ITS will be evaluating this new operating system to determine if there are any compatibility issues. Therefore, students with Windows 8 should be aware that certain network functionality may not work properly.
Faculty and staff should not upgrade their Denison-owned computers to Windows 8. ITS will not support this new operating system until a complete and thorough evaluation and testing period is completed.
How to Change Your Password
To change your BigRedID password or Self-Service PIN using the links provided, you must know your current BigRedID password. If you have forgotten your password:
- Students: please visit the ITS Help Desk during business hours (see Help Desk hours and locations) with your Denison ID. If you are off-campus, please call 740-587-6395 Monday to Friday between 8:00AM and 5:30PM.
- Faculty: please call 740-587-6395 or visit the ITS Help Desk in Fellows 100A (see Help Desk hours and locations).
BigRedID Password
Your BigRedID password is used to sign in to MyDenison, Denison Apps, Novell and other online Denison resources.
Self-Service PIN
Your PIN is used to sign in to DU Self-Service for access to timesheets, class schedules and rosters, etc.
Change Your Self-Service PIN
Visit How Do I...? for online guides & tutorials on how to: