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Don't reboot at your own risk!

As we all know by now, a library patron using a public computer can leave behind all kinds of problems or changes to that computer. These problems or changes to the computer may or may not have been intentional. Nonetheless, it is very important to ensure that the next patron who sits down at that computer is given the same reliable service as each patron before. This includes preventing viruses and objectionable adult information or pictures to be seen or experienced by the next patron.

Deep Freeze is a security program designed to provide this type of protection for your patrons. Every time a computer protected by Deep Freeze is rebooted, it is restored to its original condition, and any problems or changes disappear.

It has come to my attention that a few libraries may NOT be enforcing the very simple "Reboot Before Use" policy on Deep Freeze protected public computers. If your library chooses not to enforce this policy, you may be opening yourself up to a whole lot of problems and complaints.

Following the "Reboot Before Use" policy will help protect your library and the whole library system from:

  1. VIRUSES - Allowing patron introduced viruses to remain on public computers will put ALL computers and computer users in your library at risk, and the virus could also spread to other libraries on the OWLSnet network. (That would not be a good thing.)
  2. OBJECTIONABLE MATERIAL
  3. UNAUTHORIZED INSTALLATION OR REMOVAL OF PROGRAMS
  4. MALICIOUS CHANGES TO COMPUTERS

Following the "Reboot Before Use" policy will protect your computers, your patrons, your employees, and OWLSnet.

Please remember that every library has a responsibility to follow policies that protect the security and integrity of the network. Also remember, that when several libraries are in need of assistance, there is an incentive for OWLS to give priority to the libraries that accept their responsibility and do their part.

Contributed by Dave Bacon

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