CACR Computing Policies

This is a list of general computer usage and security policies that apply to all users of CACR resources.  All holders of accounts on CACR systems are advised to retain a copy of this document for reference.

Computer Use

Computers, software, and communications systems provided by CACR are to be used only for CACR-approved work (as determined by the CACR Director or his/her authorized representatives). Misuse or unauthorized access is prohibited, and is subject to criminal and civil penalties. Accounts on the CACR machines are for the exclusive use of the individual user named in the account application. Users should not share passwords or accounts with anyone. If evidence is found that more than one person is using an account, that account will be disabled immediately.

Passwords

Passwords should be at least eight (8) characters long and contain embedded punctuation marks and/or digits and a mix of upper and lower case characters. The password must be changed as soon as possible after an unacceptable exposure or suspected compromise.

Software Use

All software used on CACR systems must be appropriately acquired and used according to the specified licensing. Possession or use of illegally copied software is prohibited. Likewise, users shall not copy copyrighted software or materials, except as permitted by the owner or the copyright.

Acknowledgments

Papers and publications resulting from work done using CACR resources, or with the assistance of CACR staff, must acknowledge this with an appropriate credit line*. In addition, a hardcopy of the final paper or publication must be mailed to CACR Techpubs, Caltech, Mail Code 158-79, Pasadena, CA 91125, or an electronic copy (ps or pdf file or URL) must be supplied to: techpubs (at) cacr.caltech.edu. Contact techpubs (at) cacr.caltech.edu if you have questions on how to cite CACR, or if you would like your paper linked to the CACR publications and/or research web pages.

* Examples of possible credit lines:

“Access to the (list which system) computer, located at the California Institute of Technology, was provided by the Center for Advanced Computing Research.”

“This research was performed in part using the (list which system)  computer system operated by the Caltech CACR. Access to this system was provided by (list the organization).”

“The authors would like to thank  the (list system or resource) support staff at the Caltech CACR for their assistance.”

CACR personnel and users are required to address, safeguard against and report misuse, abuse and criminal activities. Misuse of CACR resources can lead to temporary or permanent disabling of accounts, loss of allocations, and administrative or legal actions.

last updated 2008/01/08