JOG Report, January 1999
Last updated
September 8, 2009 11:36:50 AM PDT
This UCSD report to the UC-wide Joint Operations Group (JOG) and to the Communications Planning Group (CPG) summarizes key computing and communications issues for the past four months. For more information please refer to the Blink Technology pages.
Computing
- Data Center services were substantially improved by increasing availabiliy hours for online systems, and enhancing system performance. As part of this process, we implemented ATM network connections to all our servers (including the mainframe) and discontinued all SNA services.
- Employeelink 2.0 has several major new enhancements, including dynamic general queries based on a variety of user-provided selection criteria. We're in the final stages of implementing the Java-based version of the timekeeping system and were successful in creating PDF files with dynamic data to provide user-friendly printed output.
- With recent enhancements to Studentlink students can review their Financial Aid information and even buy Parking Permits!
- Recent FinancialLink enhancements include a state-of-the-art Cost Sharing subsystem, an Account code validation routine, and an Early Index Inactivation process. FinancialLink use is constantly expanding and several campus departments have decided to drop their internally-developed shadow systems in favor of FinancialLink.
- Contracts and Grants data is now in the campus Data Warehouse (DARWIN) and available to authorized campus users. DataLink expansion includes examples of standard queries which authorized users can execute or modify to their needs.
- The CBT courses continue to be very popular. We're increasing the pool of courses from 300 to 525.
- "Did you get what you Wanted?" buttons, added to the various Link Family products, facilitate customer feedback and improve services.
Communications
- Attacks on UNIX systems, particularly Linux systems, continue to plague the campus. We now cut a Linux box off the network as soon as it shows signs of being hacked. A group of system managers are working together to monitor and report on probes. We acquired the ISS vulnerablity scanning package and will use it to identify vulnerable systems campuswide. We're still recruiting for the security guru to coordinate campus activities in this area.
- The fee-for-service dial-in modem pool was upgraded to V.90 during the holidays. We also added 70 more modems to the service.
- 4000 out of the 5500 students who live in the dorms are now actively using the residence halls network.
- Upgrades to the ATM switch/ router, connecting the campus to the outside world, accommodates increased traffic requirements.
- A new proposal for a communications funding model is being discussed with various members of the campus community.
- Cellular phone service coverage improved after several vendors placed their antennas on top of Tioga Hall.
- A different Cable TV service provider was selected and services were successfully transferred.
