Sessions about Systems and Networking

So many network devices and so little time. Learn how the LSU AgCenter monitors network devices and desktops using various monitoring tools. Gain knowledge on Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI). Get acquainted with OpManager, by AdventNet, which monitors servers, routers, switches, wireless access points, and compressed video equipment. In addition, see graphical representations of ports on routers and switches that can be made into a web site that monitors bandwidth and network traffic. Learn how the AgCenter receives network alerts and events using cell phones, text messaging and email. See a demonstration of a remote desktop session to a server from only a cell phone.

NC Cooperative Extension is in the business of generating and sharing knowledge and information for both internal and public consumption. Our previous computing infrastructure, a Linux terminal-server based solution, limited our county extension offices’ ability to “do the business” of the organization. It was time for a change. This session explores the methods and processes that were implemented to drive the transition of the county computing infrastructure from a Linux platform to a Macintosh platform. Changing computer platforms is always a challenge, even more so when budget constraints require a drastic deviation from the primary working model. This session also explores a shift in focus from a technology-driven solution to a problem-driven solution. We discuss how addressing the problem, as opposed to the technology, helps to clarify the real purpose of a project. By answering the question, “What problem are we trying to solve?” we were able to rethink the situation and provide our users with a computing solution that fit. In addition, we were able to overcome obstacles created from the budget constraints, overcome our tradition model mindsets, and eliminate some of our traditional tedious tasks.

Come share with us! A round-table discussion of IT policies will have something for everyone. Some topics of discussion include: who makes your policies, where and how you share them with your users, how your organization approves, reviews, and works with new and current policies. Have you had any policies that caused major controversy? Have you had to revoke or amend any policies? This will be an opportunity to share resources and ideas to keep your organization's policies current.

Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) staff support nearly 100 servers in 73 locations for a variety of tasks. The 66 that are physically remote from our operations center add extra complexity to our "care and feeding" processes. We'll share the tools we use from Microsoft & Dell and processes we've developed to manage these resources.

Review the development of a new training session for county educators. Also, share some assessment results from the initial classes. HELP. Our Internet is down and ICT Support asked me to go to our "network closet". What do all those different pieces of equipment and wires do? We don't have a "network closet," do we? What's a router? This workshop will help you understand your network and what to do when you lose network connectivity (no Internet or email). We will discuss the various network equipment and how each piece fits together to provide Internet connectivity to your office. We'll present general information applicable to all offices, then review participant network pictures.