The University of Pittsburgh community requires reliable, highly available, and robust technology. Computing Services and Systems Development delivers the core services and infrastructure to support teaching, learning, and research at the University.

This page is designed to provide deans, directors, department heads, managers, administrators, and IT specialists with an overview of CSSD's technology services and solutions. You can also explore this Web site by using the "View Information For" filtering tool in the right-hand column and setting the affiliation to "Your Department". As you navigate the site, all information will be customized to your needs.

Network Infrastructure

PittNet, the University's high-speed, multi-service network, provides access to University computing resources, the Internet, and research networks. In addition, wireless service is available campus wide, including a special service for guests on official business. The University of Pittsburgh also hosts a number of centers engaged in computational science and focused on multidisciplinary collaborations in computational research.

Information Security

CSSD employs sophisticated security technologies and services and continuously monitors the University's computing environment to protect it against hackers, malicious software, and other cyber threats. The Enterprise Security Controls solutions provide core technologies for departments, including email, firewall protection, and hosting official University Web sites. Per the Enterprise Security Controls guideline, all University schools, departments, and units must use these services. Optional server hosting is also available at CSSD's Network Operations Center.

All individuals in the University community share the responsibility of protecting sensitive University information and resources. The Secure Your Data community, available in the my.pitt.edu Web portal, provides a step-by-step guide to assist faculty and staff in implementing the necessary security controls to protect their computing resources and sensitive information.

Central Account Management and Directory Services

All University students, faculty, and staff are provided with a University Computing Account that enables single sign-on access to all enterprise-wide services. Enterprise Central Directory Service (CDS) is a series of systems that manage University Computing Accounts and authorize access to various University-wide computing services. CDS provides the convenience of single sign-on access to most University-wide systems. Departments may choose to participate in the Enterprise Active Directory to leverage the University Computing Accounts in CDS and expand single sign-on to their departmental technology services. Each University Responsibility Center has one or more Responsibility Center Account Administrators who manage faculty and staff accounts.

my.pitt.edu

The University's Web portal is the single point of access for important information and online services. The portal consists of communities (Web pages) with specific purposes, such as access to Webmail, faculty services, the PeopleSoft Student Information system, Emergency Notification Service subscription, Secure Your Data, and many more.  Subscribe via the portal to the University's Web Conferencing service, a secure and convenient online solution for faculty and staff to host virtual meetings and collaborate with colleagues across campus or around the globe.  CSSD can also create specialized communities to meet the needs of faculty and staff.

Software

The University's Software Licensing Services provides software at significantly reduced prices. Some software is available at no cost through the Software Download Service. Special programs for acquiring departmental and faculty software are offered, including the Microsoft Campus software.

Telephone Services

CSSD supports the University's telephony needs, including phones, voice mail, voice conferencing service, cell phones and mobile devices, and other advanced voice services.

Support

Surrounding these technologies is a comprehensive array of support services designed to help students, faculty, and staff make the most of the resources that are available to them. These support services include a 24-hour Technology Help Desk, Academic and Departmental consultants , support for both residential and commuting students, and the Expert Partners program that helps IT professionals throughout the University keep current with changes in CSSD's services.

Departmental Contracts

CSSD can arrange a departmental support contract for University departments that are interested in receiving dedicated, onsite information technology support and services.

Policies, Guidelines, and Governance

This site provides information on University policies, key federal regulations, and CSSD operational standards and guidelines. University Committees that guide the direction of CSSD are also highlighted.

For More Information

The Technology Help Desk provides more than end-user support. Should you need more information or have a question about any CSSD service, please call 412-624-HELP [4357] or submit your request online. The Help Desk staff will answer your question or direct your inquiry to the appropriate CSSD staff member.

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