We recognize that Google Drive has quickly become a popular way to store and share files at Simmons, and that the widespread adoption of this tool can make it difficult to keep track of what files you’ve uploaded and with whom you’ve shared them.

To help keep our data safe, Simmons Technology will deploy a solution called CloudLock to monitor sensitive data in Google Drive beginning November 15th. While Google Drive meets our security requirements and is FERPA compliant, there are certain kinds of data that should not be stored there, including credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, and student financial information. Many members of the Simmons community also access Google Drive on various mobile devices from non-Simmons WiFi networks, which increases the possibility of sensitive data being made available outside the Simmons network.

That’s where CloudLock comes in. It programmatically identifies certain data that appear to match these types of sensitive information, and if found, alerts you by email. This automated process does not require Technology staff to view or monitor files in Google Drive, and it directly alerts you to the presence of any sensitive data so that you can remove it.

Prior to the rollout of CloudLock, we will send an email to all faculty and staff detailing how you will be notified and what action you can take to remove sensitive data. In the meantime, if you have questions about CloudLock or keeping your Google Drive files compliant, please contact David Bruce, Director of Infrastructure & Online Services.

If you are a faculty or staff member who uses SPSS for statistical analysis, you can now download the newest version of SPSS to your personal computer.

To get started, make sure you’re connected to the Simmons network using the Simmons Virtual Private Network (VPN), and then follow the instructions here.

If you have questions about the download, or would like to install SPSS on a Simmons-owned computer, please contact the Service Desk at 617-521-2222.

On Tuesday, October 22, Apple released their newest Mac operating system: OS X Mavericks (10.9). The new operating system was immediately made available as a free download for current Mac owners. Mavericks is a completely new version of OS X and requires a reinstall of the entire operating system. Because Mavericks has just been released, we are asking anyone with a Simmons-owned Mac to continue using their current OS until the Service Desk has verified that Mavericks works with all applications commonly used at Simmons.

To find out more about Mavericks, please visit the official OS X webpage here.

Simmons Technology has opened a new support venue in Lefavour Hall, just in time for the Fall semester. The Technology Support Center (TSC) provides a variety of services focused on student workers supporting other students. The TSC provides assistance with personally owned computers, mobile phones, tablets, and the various Simmons online resources, such as Simmons Connection, Google Apps, and Simmons Moodle. The TSC is located in LEF-331, conveniently positioned upstairs from Beatley Library and is open Monday-Friday from 8am-6pm. The TSC operates on a first come, first served basis and, while the focus is on helping students with tech questions, our student workers are available to assist faculty and staff as well.

In addition to the TSC, technology support is also available at the Beatley Library reference desk. Technology staff will be there to assist with any computer or printing difficulties in the Library and can also direct you to the TSC for assistance with more complex issues. Technology staff are available in the library Monday-Friday from 8am-6pm, with extended hours as needed.

For additional information on this and other Technology services, please visit the technology support page on our website.