Acceptable Use of IT Resources (Network and Computing) Policy

Effective Date: July 1, 2007

Policy Statement

Columbia University requires that all individuals accessing University electronic information resources to abide by the standards of acceptable usage indicated within this policy.

The University is not responsible for information or materials residing on non-University systems or available over publicly accessible networks even if accessed via the University's network.  Such materials do not necessarily reflect the attitudes, opinions, or values of the University, its trustees, faculty, staff, or students.  

The University reserves the right to modify or amend this policy and to limit or restrict the use of its electronic information resources at its sole discretion. 

Reason for the Policy

Columbia University's network and computing technology provides information, data, and communication services. Responsible use of electronic information resources is necessary to create and maintain an open community of responsible users based on mutual respect and cooperation, commitment to the integrity of resources and data, and compliance with all University policies and federal, state, and local statutes.

This policy defines acceptable usage of Columbia University network and computing resources.

Primary Guidance to Which This Policy Responds

This policy is established under the provisions of Columbia University's Information Technology Security and Policy Program.

Responsible University Office & Officer

The office of Columbia University Information Technology Security is responsible for the maintenance of this policy, and for responding to questions regarding this policy.  The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is the responsible officer.

Revision History

This policy was established in July 2007.

Who is Governed by This Policy

This policy applies to all individuals who access, use, or control University electronic information resources.  Those individuals covered include, but are not limited to staff, faculty, students, those working on behalf of the University, guests, tenants, visitors, and individuals authorized by affiliated institutions and organizations. 

Who Should Know This Policy

All individuals governed by this policy should be familiar with it.

Exclusions & Special Situations

None

Policy Text

This policy establishes the expectations for all users of the University's electronic information resources and data.  It addresses the availability and integrity of resources in support of the University's missions, codifies appropriate usage, establishes the need for users to respect the rights of others and to be in compliance with other University policies, policies of external networks and resources, and all applicable federal, state, and local statutes.

The University's electronic information resources are provided to support the teaching, learning, clinical, and research missions of the University and their supporting administrative functions. Inappropriate use of these electronic information resources threatens the atmosphere for the sharing of information, the free exchange of ideas, and a secure environment for creating and maintaining electronic information resources.  

Appendix A provides a partial list of relevant statues regarding use of electronic information resources.   Examples to assist with interpretation and administration of this policy are provided in Appendix B - "Examples of the Acceptable Use IT Resources" at the end of this document.

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