ARS Emergency Readiness

OCIO Technical Guidance for Business Continuity in Emergency Situations

The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) has determined that the following will be provided during an emergency situation.

• Remote access to networks and information systems (VPN)
• Technical support for systems and users
• Network functionality and maintenance
• Cyber/systems security
• IT connectivity (dial-up Internet Access)
• Government Emergency Telecommunications (GETS) cards

Remote access to networks and information systems (VPN)

Note: Access to ARS E-mail can only be completed via the VPN

Please Note: All information concerning OCIO technical guidance can be found via the ARS Intranet only. You are required to login when prompted to access the information.

• Virtual Private Network (VPN) Remote Access
• Cisco VPN PC Requirements
• VPN Client Installation Instructions for Dial Up Users
• VPN Client Installation Instructions for High Speed User
• Keyboard Shortcuts for a Remote Desktop Session

Technical support for systems and users

Please contact the ARS Help Desk for technical support.
ARS Help Desk
1-866-802-4877

IT connectivity (dial-up Internet Access)

Maureen Harris
Maureen.Harris@ars.usda.gov
301-504-1088

Government Emergency Telecommunications (GETS) cards

Maureen Harris
Maureen.Harris@ars.usda.gov
301-504-1088