The continuous operation of the IT infrastructures and data of all branches of the Department of Family Medicine is essential to minimize stress and maximize productivity and open communication. Therefore, we must take steps to prevent the epidemic of worms and viruses we’ve seen in the past. The disruption to the department, the clinics, the staff and the students from these attacks is significant, and the computing industry predicts the attacks could get worse. In order to prevent further occurrence in the future, the IT Department will develop a strategic plan to migrate systems from Windows platforms to open source platforms running OPEN OFFICE . This will eliminate the need to buy Windows and anti-virus licenses along with regular updates released from time to time.

Anti-Virus Software
In the meantime, before the migration to open source, virus detection software must be installed, regularly updated, and used to scan computers and media for viruses. All files from any external source must be checked for viruses before use on any computer. The IT department will aid anyone unsure of whether their computer is equipped to monitor for viruses.

Software Licenses and Copyrights
All software installed on any system must have a valid license. Copying or duplicating licensed software goes against the software’s original licensed agreement, and such misuse of the software undermines the department’s credibility. The IT department asks that this policy of respecting software licensing agreements be respected, and that one only copies or duplicates software if the action is explicitly permitted pursuant to the license terms and conditions.
No programs from an external source whether licensed or not, are to be personally obtained and/or installed on any computer equipment, whether owned or leased, unless first discussed with the IT department or involved in a process that has been approved by the IT department.
Original license documents must be available for inspection on request.

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