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Appropriate Use

Appropriate Use Policy for DirectConnect

The following are some policies applicable to all users of the campus network through DirectConnect.

While this is not an inclusive list, you are NOT allowed to...

  • ...operate any wireless device or provide a pass-through your equipment to your assigned connection for other users for any purpose. 
  • Run a business or organization for profit or non-profit purposes.
  • Monitor data on the network by means of any monitoring or "sniffer" software.
  • Provide a pass-through site to other campus or off-campus users (for example, web servers) or provide remote login (e.g. file sharing especially for music, FTP or Telnet access) on your computer for others than yourself.
  • Provide information to others on the Network such as Newsfeeds, and Anonymous FTP site, BBS, UUCP site, etc.

Forgery or misrepresentation of ones identity via electronic or any other form of communication is a violation of Student Conduct Code.

Unauthorized entry or modification of any computer system and its contents is a violation of State and Federal law. Violations will be referred to the Student Conduct Code and the County Attorneys office.

The network is a shared resource. Use of applications which inhibit or interfere with the use of the network by others is not permitted. This includes applications that use unusually high portions of bandwidth for extended periods of time or causes someone else's computer on the network to malfunction. Users may be instructed by a DirectConnect or UM's Information Technology Office (ITO) administrator, to cease any system activity that causes problems on the network.

The University of Montana's network services and wiring may not be modified or extended beyond the area of their intended use. This applies to all network wiring, hardware and in-room jacks.

In accordance with University guidelines and/or court orders, files and transmissions may be subject to search and examination by system administrators or employees as required to protect users and the integrity of computer systems such as those that are suspected to be involved in unauthorized use or misuse, or that have been corrupted or damaged.

We are unable to offer refunds for interruptions of service that are not the result of technical failures with The University of Montana network or its systems. This includes the disabling of a student's network connectivity as a result of intentional or unintentional violations of University computing policies. Furthermore, in no circumstance will refunds be available for past unused service.


In-room network connection services from the Residence Halls is provided in support of the educational mission of the University. It is intended to be used to accomplish academic course work.

Using the network at The University of Montana is a privilege

Use common sense and ethical behavior when using the network and this privilege will not be revoked.

Just as it is illegal to enter someone's house without permission (whether their door is locked or not!) and/or steal their belongings and/or trash their house, the same holds true for computers, computer accounts, and computer networks.

Just as it is illegal to take someone's keys from them while on the street, or steal their packages or mail, the same holds true for capturing passwords or data on the network not meant for you.

All users must act responsibly and in compliance with all laws and regulations dictated by the University, local, State and Federal agencies.