Self-Service Resources

Connecting to the Harvard Network
All computers must be registered for use before they are able to connect to the Harvard network. The registration process differs based on the type of connection you are trying to access. Registering a Computer for Wired Network Access We recommend our...

Mapping (Connecting To) a Departmental Network Drive
Windows 11: 1) Click on the folder on the bottom bar 2) Click This PC 3) Click on the Computer tab 4) Click Map Network Drive 5) Enter the path to your department share. This may be on Dss10 or fas-depts For example, \\fas-depts.ad.fas.harvard.edu\cgis...

Backing Up Locally
The term local backup refers to copying your important data to devices directly connected to your computer. There are many different kinds of devices that can be used for local backups, but the most popular device is an external USB hard drives (or flash...

Backing Up Remotely
Remotely backing up your data involves copying your important files to a location that is not attached directly to your computer. Generally, this means copying your data over a network to a location on a file server. The University provides many options...

Scanning for HRCI
All Harvard computers systems must be scanned annually for sensitive information. For CGIS affiliates, IQSS/HMDC is using a software package called Identity Finder to assist in confidential data scanning. You will automaticly receive Identity Finder...

Transferring Files Securely
Confidential information must be encrypted whenever it is sent over any network. Never send confidential information unencrypted in e-mail, even if the connection to the e-mail server is encrypted. High-risk confidential information may be sent only...

Disposing Of Systems, Portable Storage, and Media

Whenever a system, storage device, or storage procedure is disposed of, assigned to another client, or repurposed, it must be cleaned to eliminate Harvard confidential information (HCI) data. To remove data securely from your laptop or desktop use one of...

Virus Protection
We provide virus protection software and services, as well as virus removal assistance in cases of infection. There are many avenues that viruses and other malicious software (malware) can use to infect your computer. No computer attached to a network is...

Securing Remote Access
We recommend the use of the FAS VPN whenever connecting to Harvard from public networks. Set up instructions can be found here. HUIT Networking Operations offers customized firewall services for administrative and research purposes. Network firewalls...

Safe Computing
Practicing Safe Computing One form of attack that is growing rapidly is the use of social engineering to infect your computer, or to gather sensitive information from you. These attacks can take the form of professional built, legitimate looking fake...

Secure Systems
The Desktop Support group supports clients in setting up and maintaining systems that are secure for use with confidential information. Consistent with University policy, all University laptops and all desktop systems with access to file services must be...