Information Technology

The Department of Information Technology (IT) is here to help plan, implement, serve, secure, and support the technology needs of the Institute and facilitate creativity in teaching, learning, and communication for cadets, faculty, administration, and staff. The goal and intent of the VMI information systems is to enhance educational and research work and to facilitate administrative processes in a secure manner to protect the information of a sensitive nature, such as social security numbers, bank account and credit card numbers, and intellectual property like cutting edge research.

Services

The Department of Information Technology (IT) provides email, word processing, spreadsheets, database management, and a variety of other software for its cadets, staff, and faculty. IT also provides VMI faculty and staff with Help Desk support, hardware and software recommendations as well as installations, troubleshooting, and training on classroom equipment. IT is responsible for the VMI local area network, and can provide access upon request. VMI furnishes a significant number of computers for cadet use in academic buildings and the Barracks Study Room, and provides personally owned computer support for cadet-owned laptops.

Access to computer systems and networks owned or operated by Virginia Military Institute impose responsibilities and obligations upon users. For more about user responsibilities, review General Order 50.

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Resources

Cadet Computing

Cadets are allowed to bring only laptop computers to VMI. Desktop computers are not permitted. VMI has recommendations for the types/brands of laptops that Cadets should use.

Network Passwords

Network account passwords should be maintained by using Self Service Password. This method is the only alternatives. Do not call the IT office to request a password change unless you are experiencing a problem with SSP. The Help Desk will answer questions over the phone, but your password cannot be changed without the proper verification/documentation.

Wireless Network

VMI has high-speed wireless networks available on-Post to allow access to the VMI network and the Internet. Wireless technology gives users the freedom to access the Internet and network resources without the limitations of being physically connected to the network infrastructure via wires.

Restricted Web Content

In accordance with the General Order 50 – Acceptable Use Policy [PDF], IT has implemented enhanced web content restriction to improve security and legal compliance. In some cases the user is warned about the content, and may continue to the site. In other cases content is restricted and the user may not access the content without documented requirements.