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Important Changes Coming for Mainframe Users

In order to meet State and USM security requirements it is necessary to make changes to the way that users connect to terminal sessions (i.e. green screens) on the university mainframe (the computer that runs applications such as SIS, FRS, and ARS).

Starting on Friday, July 28, 2006, users will no longer be able to open a "green screen" terminal session unless using one of two secure methods:

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN) software

   VPN software can be downloaded from the Office of Information Technology (OIT) Help Desk and installed on users computers. When activated, this software creates a secure tunnel between the computer and a VPN server in the OIT Data Center. With a secure tunnel in place, the mainframe can be accessed using the terminal programs with which users have become familiar, such as Hummingbird or tn3270.

   While VPN software has been available from OIT for some time, an additional VPN profile (called UMapps) is now included that will provide encryption for communication with systems in the OIT Data Center without impacting other network uses.

   Due to a recent security bulletin affecting previous versions of the VPN client, all users are encouraged to download and install the version currently available from OIT.

   VPN software can be obtained from http://helpdesk.umd.edu/vpn.

2. UM3270 Web based terminal emulator

   Users unable to install or use VPN software can securely access the mainframe using a Web based program hosted on http://um3270.umd.edu.

   The UM3270 program allows a user to simulate a green screen terminal session within a Web browsing window. Advantages to using the Web program include the ability to point-and-click at menu selections and form fields. The disadvantages include a slower response than in a native terminal session and certain capabilities (such as cursor action) do not operate in exactly the same manner on the Web requiring user adjustment. Based upon user feedback, a number of local enhancements have been made to this product since its first announcement to make it more functional in the UM environment.

   Both methods of accessing the mainframe meet state audit requirements requiring the restriction of direct access to the system and the encryption of sensitive data.

Users are encouraged to start using these methods immediately to ensure no interruption in service on July 28.

For more information, please call the OIT Help Desk.