Information Technology & Networking Services (ITNS)
Approved Systems and Applications
This Approved Systems and Applications document is intended as a policy for ITNS approved technology utilizing the VIMS network. Within this document, the term “client” will be used to represent VIMS Faculty, Staff, and Students. Further ITNS information and policies can be found at http://www.vims.edu/itns/policies
ITNS must approve all information technology purchases. ITNS has defined standards for system configurations in order to meet client needs and minimize the ongoing support costs. Clients may consult with ITNS on their particular needs and requirements and ITNS will provide solutions to meet those needs. As technology advances, this document will be revised to meet the current ITNS standards.
Operating Systems
Below is a list of operating systems that ITNS supports.
- Macintosh
- Mac OSX 10.7 and newer
- Windows
- Windows 7 Enterprise (recommended OS)
- Windows 8.1 Enterprise
- Windows Server 2012 r2 (recommended Server OS)
- Linux (special use cases)
- Red Hat 6 and newer
- Ubuntu Server/Desktop 13 and newer
Software & Applications
ITNS has a Campus Agreement for the Microsoft Office Suite and Microsoft Outlook with Exchange ActiveSync is the standard email client. Sophos is the standard anti-virus software and must be installed on all VIMS owned computers.
System Requirements
ITNS recommends that you plan your budget for ensuring that you have current hardware and software configurations. Once hardware systems are out of warranty, or operating systems and applications are end of life, ITNS cannot guarantee the same level of service, but will provide one year of additional support; afterwards the system will need to be sent to surplus. All systems need to be ordered with at least a three year warranty; however, it is recommended to order the maximum warranty available to extend the life of the system.
ITNS is certified to provide warranty repair on Dell systems covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. ITNS will assist with Apple computers; however, depending on the problem, support may need to be handled by an outside Apple Authorized vendor.
ITNS requires a local administrator account on all VIMS owned computers.
ITNS has defined work-class systems as the standard and currently supports the following hardware systems:
- Dell Systems
- Optiplex (desktops)
- Latitude (laptops)
- Precision (workstations)
- Macintosh
- iMac (desktops)
- Mac Pro (desktop)
- Macbook (laptop)
- Panasonic
- Toughbook (ruggedized field system)
- Microsoft
- Surface Pro 3 and newer (tablet)
ITNS Service
ITNS is not responsible for any data lost while the computer is in ITNS care. While we take every precaution to retain user data, problems can occur and it is up to the end user to ensure they have a viable backup before bringing any VIMS owned or personal systems in for service or configuration.
Mobile Devices (i.e. Cell Phones & Non-standard Tablets)
ITNS offers limited support on mobile devices other than the approved hardware. Mobile devices are allowed access on the VIMS guest wireless network. VPN and several other resources behind the firewall may not be available at this time.
Personally Owned Systems
Contact ITNS in order to connect a personally owned system on the VIMS network.
Printers
ITNS has several large multi-function copier/printers strategically located around the VIMS campus. It is more cost effective to utilize these printers, especially for large print jobs. For small desktop print needs, ITNS has standardized on Hewett Packard (HP) printers. Paper and toner is the responsibility of the department owning the printer. ITNS will assist with diagnosing a problem; however, HP printer repair support must be obtained through an outside vendor.