Computer Network Access and Security
Network Access Information
All network connections at the ALS are provided through ALSnet, a local area network (LAN) which is connected to LBLnet and to the Internet. The ALS provides support for IBM compatible, Apple, and Sun systems. If you are using a different system, or have any specialized computer requirements, consult the ALS Network Contact before you arrive at the ALS.
Connection Costs
Connecting to an existing user area subnet (i.e., making soft changes, such as assigning
IP numbers) is free. If new hardware is needed or new lines must be run for the connection, there is a one-time
charge that is generally less than $500 (exact prices depend on media type and user equipment).
Local Area Networks (LANs) Supported
Consult the ALS Network
Contact or LBLnet Services for more information about the
following local networks available to ALS users:
- Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) LANs are supported for controls, beamlines, and user areas such as offices.
- LocalTalk/PhoneNet LANs are available by special request.
Protocols Supported
- AppleTalk Phase 2 (for Macintosh connectivity) and EtherTalk
- DECnet Phase 4 & 5
- Novell Netware IPX (for IBM PC connectivity)
- OSI CLNP (GOSIP)
- TCP/IP and DHCP
Suspected Problems with ALSnet or LBLnet
If you need immediate assistance with network problems, telephone LBLnet Services (ext. 4559); if your problem is not
urgent, consult Reporting Trouble and Planning Info Web pages for additional contact
information.
LBNL Computer Support
For technical help with hardware or software on Berkeley Lab-owned computers,
telephone the Computing Infrastructure Support Center (ext. 4357) and be prepared
to give an account number. A request for assistance can also be filled out
on-line at Computing
Infrastructure Support (Computer Help Desk).
User-owned
computers must be serviced privately.
- What: Computer Network Access and Technical Support
- Who:
-
Paul Molinari, ALS Network Contact (Ext. 4953), email: p_molinari@lbl.gov
for ALSnet access
-
LBLnet Services (Ext. 4559), email: lblnet@lbl.gov,
for network technical
support
-
Computing Infrastructure Support Center (Ext. 4357), on-line help request form at: Computing
Infrastructure Support (Computer Help Desk), for technical assistance
with all desktop computing issues (hardware, software, etc.)
Computer Security
Computer Protection Agreement
All users must read and sign Berkeley Lab's Computer Protection Agreement before they will be allowed acess to the lab's computers. The form details security and access regulations for safeguarding the use and protection of computers at the ALS and Berkeley Lab. For additional information see Computer Protection Program at Berkeley Lab.
Network Security
- Use a separate password for ALS systems. Use different passwords for systems of different security levels. For example, passwords to UX5, LETS, and Oracle should NOT BE THE SAME as passwords you use on ALS systems.
- Take actions that will ensure that your password is not exposed to the network. If you access remote systems with telnet, rlogin, rsh, pop, or ftp, and it asks you to type a password, this password travels unencrypted over the network, visible to unscrupulous sniffer programs. Obtain and use programs that avoid placing your password on the net. Be especially careful of passwords for more secure systems (systems critical to ALS operations or experiments) and privileged accounts. Examples of these tools include Secure Shell, S/Key, APOP, and properly configured Rhosts files. These tools are site licensed or free, so take advantage of them. For details consult your system manager or check out the ALS Computer Security Home Page
Data Security
Virus protection is critical for data security and to protect other users of
ALSnet. Current versions of virus protection software are available from the
ALS Network Contact. Virus information and virus-protection software also
are available through Berkeley Lab
Computer Security Information. If
you discover a rogue program, such as a virus or worm, or if you are aware of
a network security violation, contact
the Computer Protection Program Manager.
Hardware Security
For information about securing LBNL-owned computers against earthquakes or theft,
review the information at Berkeley
Lab Computer Lockdowns and Earthquake Securing.
The safety of user-owned computer hardware is the responsibility of the user.
- What: Computer Network, Data, and Hardware Security
- Who:
-
Computer Protection Program Manager, for
matters relating to network and data security
Information about computer lockdowns is available at Berkeley Lab Computer Lockdowns and Earthquake Securing.
Privacy and the Use of Web Cams at the ALS
In order to ensure everyone's right to privacy, users and staff intending to use a web cam anywhere on the ALS experiment floor must post a notice that a camera is in use in the area.