[489] in Resnet-Forum
Re: Computer Lab Security
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Leo D. Geoffrion)
Fri Feb 17 21:20:23 1995
Date: Fri, 17 Feb 1995 20:56:47 -0500
To: LitherlandCJ%DFE%USAFA@dfmail.usafa.af.mil, resnet-forum@MIT.EDU
From: ldg@skidmore.EDU (Leo D. Geoffrion)
At 5:05 PM 2/17/95, LitherlandCJ%DFE%USAFA@dfmail.usafa.af.mil wrote:
>On the question of 24 hour computer lab security:
>
>I echo the suggestion for some kind of controlled entry to record arrivals
>and departures. A recent theft trend we have heard is RAM SIMMs being
>stolen from computers. Components of computers are hard to secure or
>alarm, but some form of recording who was in the room might discourage
>thefts. We are going to a card controlled access to our buildings and
>keypad entry to offices, because it eliminates keys along with the
>associated accounting and unauthorized duplication problems. These new
>systems record time and identity. They also have the advantage of
>allowing more access (controlled) to areas after hours. Our locks are a
>natural follow-on of our card identification systems now used for library
>check-out, equipment issue, etc.
We tried a card-entry system in one of our clusters back in the mid-80's
and found it a dismal failure. Too many students would just prop the door
open, or open the door for friends (where "friends" = anyone who looks
student-like). At the very least, one logged entry could correspond to
three or four people entering the room, all of whom may leave at different
times.
We never replicated the experiment in other clusters and eventually
abandoned the electronics in the initial room. Unless you're prepared to
"educate" your students about proper security behavior, card-entry or
key-entry will offer a very false sense of security. You still have no
idea who's in your rooms.
=============================================================
Leo D. Geoffrion, (518) 584-5000 Ext. 2919
Associate Director ldg@skidmore.edu
Center for Information FAX: (518) 584-3023
Technology Services
Skidmore College,
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
=============================================================
Responsibilities: User Services Unit, Curriculum Support Unit
