Purpose
The goal of this policy is to maintain a secure network environment for Teachers College by preventing the spread of malware and other security breaches. A fully updated operating system on all computers is necessary to help accomplish this goal. A fully updated operating system means that all security updates have been downloaded, installed, and the computer restarted. Until computers are restarted, updates are not installed, and computers remain vulnerable to security threats.
Scope
This policy applies to all TC-managed computers used by faculty, staff, and students.
Policy
Typically, Microsoft releases updates once a month. These updates are installed remotely by TCIT on a monthly basis. In order to successfully install and apply critical updates, TC-managed computers require a restart. In order to ensure updates are applied in a timely manner, TC-managed computers will be automatically restarted remotely by TCIT on the last Thursday of each month from 11 PM until 6 AM the next day (Friday).
On the occasion a highly critical security patch is released outside of its regular release cycle that addresses an unexpected, widespread, and destructive exploit, TCIT will expedite the update deployment process. Once deployed, TC-managed workstations (desktops and laptops) must be restarted by the user within five days. After the deadline passes, TC workstations will be automatically restarted in order to install the updates.
In the event that a machine cannot be updated for any reason, it may be removed from the TC network and assessed for repair/replacement.
Responsible Office: Teachers College Information Technology
Effective Date: June 15, 2020
Last Update: June 15, 2020