Before Connecting a Server to the Mason Network

A systems administrator (sysadmin) is an individual responsible for maintaining a multi-user computing system. Typical duties include: setting up user accounts; installing software (sometimes available system wide); allocating storage space to user accounts; and patching software. The following information sources have been compiled to assist Systems Administrators at Mason with their security duties.

• Join Mason's Systems Administrators Leadership Team (SALT) listserv and attend meetings
• Understand your job responsibilities by reviewing the University Policy Number 1301: Responsible Use of Computing Policy
• Before connecting your server to the internet, make sure you have installed the latest patches and verify that all ports and services that are not needed are disabled or closed
• Create strong, hard to break passwords, for administrative account and user accounts
• Do not use the same password for multiple devices
• Configure system to create logfiles
• Physically secure your computer(s)

After Registering & Connecting

• Monitor your log files at least daily
• Backup important data
• Ensure that only authorized individuals have access to your systems
• Limit your use of admin privileges; only use when necessary
• Know what steps to take if you suspect a security incident
• Follow the trends and stay current with latest threats and updates
• Configure system settings to close unused ports and unused system accounts. Deny access to known bad sites
• Develop a recovery plan in the event you are on vacation and the hardware fails, your system gets hacked, or something just happens
• Maintain professional development: develop a plan with your supervisor; attend classes, seminars, conferences, and workshops; use Mason's license with SkillPort to take online courses - anytime, anywhere