BYOD Info: Students

BYOD

We're pleased to announce that all students at Hunterdon Central have the option to join the guest network and bring their personally-owned devices to the high school. We're calling this BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Please read through this page and take a look at the resources, to help you understand what this all means. Hunterdon Central will continue to make classroom computer devices available.

WHY MY DEVICE?

  • You're more comfortable on your device. It has all your applications installed and all your files right there. You also get to use a device that you prefer.
  • eBooks. They're lighter than textbooks. You can take notes in them - and you'll never forget them at home.
  • Even when you're not at Central, you'll be able to access all of your usual network resources 24/7. You can even sign up for the late bus while brushing your teeth at home!
  • When you have the internet at your finger tips, you'll be a more engaged learner. Your teacher will bring up a topic, and you can have facts ready by the time they're done with the intro!
  • Do you have a study hall or some free time during Unit Lunch? If you bring your own computer, you can surf the web from wherever you choose to eat your lunch.
  • All Microsoft Windows PCs and Macintosh computers are required to have a policy key installed to operate on the HC wireless network. Then, it's just like connecting from a coffee shop.
  • If you want to use a District "virtual desktop," you will have to download and install VMWare (select the VMWare Installation & Use Guide link on this webpage.)

SO YOU WANT ACCESS?

This all sounds great and you want access, right? It's a quick, easy process, if you prepare yourself ahead of time. Here's what you have to do:

  1. Make sure you have antivirus software installed, activated and up to date. Check out the A Quick Note if you have any questions about this process.
  2. Once on campus, browse for open wireless networks and connect to "HCW-Guest."
  3. Open up a web browser and connect to an internet website.
  4. Login with your school username and password.
  5. Microsoft Windows PCs and Macintosh computer users are required to have a policy key installed to operate on the HC network. Our SafeConnect appliance will prompt you to download and install the agent. Click the "Yes, I will install the SafeConnect Policy Key Client and accept the terms and conditions for Internet Use" hyperlink. Click "Run" and select "Yes." This is a one-time install.

A QUICK NOTE

Before you attempt to connect to the District wireless network, make sure you have antivirus/security protection installed. It's imperative that all computers are adequately covered, so that no viruses or security threats are transmitted across our network. Regardless of whether you have a Mac, Windows, or Linux-based computer, viruses are a real threat to everyone, and our SafeConnect appliance will verify that your computer device is adequately protected and meets current HC security standards. Often times, anti-virus software comes packaged with your Internet Service Provider. They will be able to provide you with a link to download their licensed copy. If you'd prefer to purchase your own, feel free. As an alternative, there are many robust, free anti-virus software packages available for download. Please see the Resources list on this webpage links to them.

FAQ

What is SafeConnect and why is it being used?

SafeConnect is a network access control (NAC) device that helps ensure those individuals who are connecting to the HC network meet our minimum security standards. SafeConnect accomplishes this by requiring that all Windows and Macintosh devices install a small security Policy Key Agent on the computer after authenticating with your HC username and password. Before authentication and policy key installation, all internet access will be restricted to the HC homepage and whitelisted sites, until you to meet the current HC security standards.

Do we have to use the SafeConnect Policy Key?

Yes, All Microsoft Windows PCs and Macintosh computers are required to have the policy key installed to operate on the HC network. This requirement helps ensure a safe operational environment for all who use the HCnetwork. Currently, phones and Linux machines are not required to install the SafeConnect Policy Key, but will still be required to authenticate.

What about my privacy?

Of course, your privacy is of the utmost importance, along with providing you the ability to experience a safe, productive and enjoyable work and learning environment. The SafeConnect Policy Agent scans only for what is needed on your computer to meet the current HC network security standards. For example, this may include various Windows updates, running services, antivirus, malware and anti-spyware software. Your HC authentication credentials, MAC address, client IP and related information is collected for proper system function and client protection; however, no personal user data is being stored or collected by the SafeConnect system.

What does the SafeConnect Policy Agent actively do on my system?

The SafeConnect Policy Agent continuously validates that your system meets the minimum security standards currently in place on the HC network.

RESOURCES

We want to make sure you're set up right. Take a look at the links below, if you want to install recommended software on your machine.

*Don't download or install any software without your parents' permission. Research each application prior to installing. Hunterdon Central does not provide warranties on any software distributions.