SafeConnect Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the benefits of the SafeConnect Policy Key?
The SafeConnect Policy Key is part of the college’s effort to help you keep your computers as free as possible from viruses, spyware, and operating system security holes. Machines protected in this way generally perform much better and require much less downtime due to damage caused by malicious software. Also, the SafeConnect Policy Key can help to ensure that the average user has the fastest possible browsing experience while connected to the school's network.
Do I have to use the SafeConnect Policy Key?
Yes. All Microsoft Windows and Mac computers are required to use the SafeConnect policy key to ensure a safe computing environment for all and it is required for network access.
How often do I have to authenticate?
SafeConnect requires authentication once per academic semester for most users. An extended period of inactivity over several months will require re-authentication. Faculty and Staff on Windows machines will need to authenticate more often so SafeConnect can verify computer is current on all updates.
What happens if I uninstall the SafeConnect Policy Key?
You can uninstall the SafeConnect policy key at any time; however within minutes you will then be unable to access the Internet. You will be required to reinstall the policy key as if you are a new user to gain Internet access.
How do I know the SafeConnect Policy Key is running?
On Windows machines, you can right-click any blank space on the task bar at the bottom of your screen and select the option "Task Manager". When the Windows Task Manager appears, click the "Processes" tab and look for the process "SCClient.exe". Mac OS users can open the Activity Monitor located in the Utilities folder. From the Activity Monitor, look for the process policy key.
Is the SafeConnect Policy Key compatible with my system?
Yes. The SafeConnect policy key is compatible with and required for both Windows and Macintosh computers.
What if my system is not up-to-date?
If your system has been determined not to be up-to-date, a web browser will open and you will be warned of non-compliance. If you require assistance in updating your computer, please call the IT Service Desk at x4357.
What devices does SafeConnect support?
Android
Apple ipad
Apple mobile
Blackberry
Linux
Media
Microsoft Gaming device
Nintendo Gaming device
Nokia mobile
Palm
Sony Gaming device
Windows mobile
*Others may be supported that are not listed here. Our recommendation is to plug in and follow installation instructions to allow SafeConnect to try and recognize the device.
What does the SafeConnect Policy Key actually do?
The SafeConnect policy key continuously validates that your system meets minimum security requirements and is up-to-date per the school's acceptable use policy.
What are these selected applications?
Once the SafeConnect policy key is enabled, we will require that your Windows Automatic Updater is running. You must also have antivirus software installed and running with the most current definitions available.
What am I allowed to access when quarantined?
Antivirus Software and Internet sites such as Microsoft Windows Update Services, along with other on-campus resources you may need.
When I run Windows Update Services, I get a message stating that the product key used to install windows is invalid. Why?
Windows Update will fail if your Windows Operating System is not properly licensed. You must have a legal copy of the operating system to connect to the university network. Please contact Microsoft or your PC manufacturer with questions.
What if my system is not up-to-date?
If your system has been determined not to be up-to-date, your computer will be "quarantined." While quarantined, you will still have access to academic resources such as online learning tools and online registration, as well as to update servers for your operating system, anti-spyware and anti-virus software
What about my privacy?
Your privacy is important to us. The SafeConnect Policy Key scans only for Windows update services compliance and anti-virus software. No user data is collected or stored. The SafeConnect software cannot take a snapshot of an entire system and cannot identify all the programs, file or folders on a given computer.
SafeConnect is telling me that I need to install antivirus software, but I already have an antivirus program installed. Why?
Currently SafeConnect has the ability to detect: Sophos, McAfee, TrendMicro, EZ Antivirus, Symantec, AVG, Authentium, Microsoft OneCare/Security Essentials/Forefront, Symantec Corp, McAfee NA, McAfee 45, TrendMicro Corp, Panda, AVGuard, Avast, Bitdefender, Kaspersky and SpySweeper AV. If you are running some other antivirus software, you must uninstall it and install one of the detectable programs.
It is critical that you have only one antivirus program installed on your computer. Having multiple anti-virus programs installed will result in false readings and prevent you from using the network.
I've been asked to login more then once. Why?
Though the Resnet system is configured for a one-time login, you may be asked to re-authenticate periodically. The most common reason for this is if your computer has been off the network for some time and has lost its IP address lease.
I've already installed the Policy Key and it is running, but I am repeatedly asked to download and install it. Why?
Something is preventing the policy key from communicating with the SafeConnect server. The most common cause is a firewall or antivirus program denying access. You'll need to make an exception from your firewall configuration to allow Internet access for SCClient.exe and SCManager.sys.
Another possible cause is if you are connecting multiple computers behind a router. If one of the computers does not have the policy key running, it can cause the system to think that the other computers do not have the policy key. Routers are discouraged in Resnet, but if you are going to use one you should register each computer by directly connecting it to the wall outlet before using the router.
If I am abroad using VPN, will I still be able to access certain software files?
There will be no changes to how the VPN works today so you should still have access to software files while using VPN; however keep in mind that many software programs such as SPSS rarely work properly using a VPN.
If you have a question that is not listed here but you think would be helpful to others, please go to webhelpdesk.conncoll.edu and select “SafeConnect” to submit a new FAQ.
