NSF Computer Security Policy

Updated: October 2006

Introduction   |   Update   |   Planning your visit to NSF
While at NSF   |   Prerequisites for Wireless Access   |   Questions and Feedback

NSF Visitors and Panelists:

Beginning in August 2006, every computer that connects to NSF's External Network (Visitor's Network) will be automatically screened to ensure it meets NSF's IT Security safeguards. NSF's convenient new automated system not only simplifies the screening process (eliminating the need for a manual computer scan), but provides faster access to the network, and ensures a safe and secure IT working environment.

Introduction

The following tips will help you prepare for your trip to NSF. We are committed to providing you with the proper tools and resources during your visit to the Foundation. Our new automated computer scanning process allows you quick and convenient access to NSF's External Network, which includes the Interactive Panel System (IPS) and the Internet.

Planning your visit to NSF

All computers connecting to the NSF External Network are required to follow proper NSF IT security safeguards. Taking time to prepare your computer prior to your visit will:

• Streamline the verification process upon arrival.
• Minimize threats to IT security.

Also, be sure your computer:

• Meets or exceeds the operating system minimum requirements for Windows, Macintosh, and Linux.
• Has all current operating system service packs and security patches installed.
• Is equipped with current, licensed anti-virus software.
• Has current virus table updates/patches ("datfile").
• Has been fully scanned with virus detection software within one week of your visit.
• No quarantined (virus infected) items resident on the computer.

NOTE: Completing these conditions prior to your visit will ensure you complete the automated computer scan quickly. Not completing these safeguards may impact your wait time for accessing the network.

TIP: To help expedite this process, review the instructions for configuring Automatic Updates for the Windows XP Operating System. This link also includes links to the Norton and McAfee sites for anti-virus software update information.

For your convenience, we have prepared instructions for configuring Automatic Updates for the Windows XP Operating System. This link also includes links to the Norton and McAfee sites for anti-virus software update information.

Wireless Access

You must contact NSF staff at IT Help Central (Room 357, Stafford I) to manually configure your computer to access NSF's wireless network. IT Help Central may be reached (Monday - Friday, 7 am EST to 9pm EST) by:
Phone: (703) 292-HELP (4357)
Toll Free: (800) 711-8084
Email: ithelpcentral@nsf.gov

While at NSF

We appreciate your assistance and cooperation in working with us to make your visit productive while also maintaining a safe IT-working environment. Follow these steps upon arrival to NSF to begin the automated scanning process and get connected to the network:

• Obtain a visitor's badge at the NSF Information Center, Lobby Level of the North side of the NSF building (Stafford I).
• Once you reach your designated conference room, connect your laptop using the External Network jacks (light blue icons above network ports located on the wall). In most cases, a network cable will be provided on the conference room table.
• Open your web browser. You will be automatically redirected to the NSF External Network login page.
• Click the "Enter Here" button (left side of login page). This launches the automated scanning process.

If your computer meets NSF IT Security standards, you will have instant access to the Internet. (Including FastLane and Interactive Panel System)If your computer does not meet NSF IT Security standards, you will have limited network access. You will receive instructions to update your computer to satisfy NSF Security standards.

Questions and Feedback:

If you have any questions about this process, contact IT Help Central (Monday - Friday, 7 am EST to 9pm EST) at: Phone: (703) 292-HELP (4357) Toll Free: (800) 711-8084 Email: ITHelpCentral@nsf.gov, or call toll free at 1-800-711-8084, 7:00 A.M. EST through 9:00 P.M. EST,