CERI Computer Services

The primary purpose of CERI's research computing resources is to enhance and support the educational and research mission of CERI, CERI's affiliated or partner organizations (including the local branch of the U. S. Geological Survey, the Mid-America Center, and others) and the University of Memphis. Access to the CERI's computing resources is a privilege granted to CERI students, faculty, staff, and approved guests. These resources include hardware, software, computer accounts, local area networks as well as connections to other computer networks via the Internet. Everyone using these resources is responsible for using them in an effective, ethical and lawful manner.

All users must refrain from the following activities:

1.) Using computing facilities to violate any university policy or regulation, or federal, state or local law;

2.) Entering, without authorization, into any account to use, read, transfer or change the contents in any way (see note below);

3.) Impersonating/misrepresenting another individual's computer account or e-mail username;

4.) Granting another individual access to your computer account (certain exceptions may apply with appropriate authorization);

5.) Using computing resources to interfere with the work of other students, faculty or university officials;

6.) Using computing facilities to send obscene, abusive, threatening, defamatory, or harassing messages;

7.) Using computing resources to interfere with the normal operation of university computing systems and connected networks including, but not limited to, introducing viruses, flooding the network with messages, sending chain letters, or unfairly monopolizing resources that results in the exclusion of others;

8.) Using university computing resources for profit or commercial purposes.

Intentional failure to comply with this policy will result in action which may include suspension of user privileges or other disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from the University or termination of University employment. In addition, violations may result in referral for prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

NOTE: files stored on CERI's computing facilities are University of Memphis property. As such, the advisor or supervisor of the computer user has access rights to the user's files, as do the director and associate director of CERI.

Computer accounts are normally terminated the computer users end of employment, academic studies, or other involvement at the University. Normally the advisor or supervisor of the individual is given the opportunity to take full ownership of all computer files at that time--otherwise, the files will be removed. However, the computer user and/or the advisor or supervisor may request that certain computing privileges be extended for 90 days (e.g., for a graduate who is in the process of beginning a new career and still requires email). The extension can be renewed once. Normally, no privileges will be renewed beyond 180 days from termination.