University of Nevada, Reno

Technology Support

Computing & Network Use Agreement

Standards for Using the Computing and Network Resources of the University of Nevada, Reno

Improper Conduct

Improper conduct regarding the use of University computers falls into three categories:

  1. Academic Dishonesty
  2. Disruption and Destruction of Computer Facilities
  3. Violation of Licenses and Copyright Agreements, University Policy, and State or Federal Laws

Academic Dishonesty

Dishonesty is not allowed. Examples of this type of behavior regarding computers includes, but is not limited to:

  • Submitting another person's programs, documentation, or program results as your own work
  • Obtaining or attempting to obtain unauthorized access to information stored in electronic form
  • Submitting false results of a program's output or falsifying the results of program execution

Disruption and Destruction of Computer Facilities

The disruption or destruction of computer facilities is prohibited. Examples of this type of behavior includes, but is not limited to:

  • Using computers or networks in a fashion that causes harassment, abuse, or intimidation of another person
  • Damaging or stealing University-owned equipment or software
  • Sending or printing patently offensive mail, documents, or images
  • Causing false computer system messages to display
  • Maliciously causing computer system slowdowns or rendering systems inoperable and denying access to users
  • Changing, removing, or destroying any data stored electronically (or attempting the same) without proper authorization
  • Gaining or attempting to gain access to accounts without proper authorization
  • Putting viruses or worms into a computer system
  • Sending or receiving large files on a sustained and frequent basis that negatively impacts the network

Violation of Licenses and Copyright Agreements, University Policy, and State or Federal Laws

Most software used on University computers is covered by copyright, license, and/or nondisclosure agreements. Violation of these agreements puts the University of Nevada, Reno/NSHE and the individual in jeopardy of civil penalties. Examples of such violations includes, but are not limited to:

  • Making copies of copyrighted or licensed software without proper authorization
  • Using software in violation of copyright, license, or non-disclosure agreements
  • Using University computers for unauthorized private or commercial purposes

Usage Agreement

In addition to agreeing to abide by the Standards for Using Computing and Network Resources of the University of Nevada, Reno, and the Appropriate Use of the Internet, I agree to the following statements:

  1. I understand that networked computing is a cooperative effort and will make every attempt to be prudent and considerate in my use of University computers and network resources.
  2. I will not willfully destroy, damage, tamper, alter, steal, misappropriate or use without permission any system, program or file of the University and Community College System of Nevada (NSHE).
  3. So that others may not use my account, I agree to use my account for my own work and to keep my password confidential. I agree to report the use of my account by others to the appropriate Network Systems Administrator.
  4. I understand that while the University of Nevada, Reno/NSHE makes every attempt to preserve the integrity of my data and files stored on the system, if a conflict arises between keeping the system operational and maintaining the integrity of my data, keeping the system operational takes precedence. The University/NSHE is not responsible for any loss of data.
  5. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the University/NSHE, its employees, and agents from any claim, demand, liability, cause of action, suit judgment or expense (including attorney fees), arising out of my breach of this agreement.
  6. I understand that I do not own my computing account, but do have exclusive access to the account under normal circumstances. The University/NSHE owns the account and gives me the privilege of using it. The University/NSHE reserves the right to access the account if an incident occurs that affects service or threatens the protection of the rights or property of the University/NSHE. This access is solely for correcting service or a threat.
  7. I understand and agree that each time I access the the University/NSHE computing network that I am bound by these terms of the agreement, along with any changes or additions to this agreement, and the terms of all the University policies that are in effect at the time I access the system.
  8. I understand that violations of this agreement may result in the revoking of all my computer and network access privileges.

I agree and acknowledge that any infractions will result in disciplinary action from the University and appropriate local, state and federal agencies. Nevada Revised Statutes 205.473-205.491 (Unlawful Acts Regarding Computers) and applicable statutes in the Appendices are fully enforceable. By using my account I agree to all of the above sections.

Appendices

Faculty and Staff Appendix

  • Faculty: Academic dishonesty and the disruption or destruction of computer facilities is covered in Chapter 6.2, "Prohibited Activity," of the NSHE Code.
  • Classified Staff: Dishonesty and the disruption or destruction of computer facilities is covered in Section 284.650, "Causes for Disciplinary Action," of the Nevada Administrative Code.

Student Appendix

 The Student Judicial Code, University of Nevada, Reno defines academic dishonesty and the disruption or destruction of computer facilities in Sections I, II and III.  Reference the General Course Catalog for your matriculation year. 

General Public Appendix

Dishonesty, theft, unauthorized use of computer facilities, as well as destruction, modification, and similar computer crimes are detailed in Nevada Revised Statutes 205.473-205.491 (Unlawful Acts Regarding Computers).

Last updated: February 2012