Policy:

As it is the purpose of INST to facilitate research, and the Systems Administration Unit wholly supports this mission, appropriate software titles will be provided on a case-by-case basis providing that the software is relevant to ongoing research or administration.

Procedure:

1. All software installed on INST hosts shall be purchased with the authorization of the Systems Administration Unit. No unlicensed or “pirated” software will be allowed on INST hosts.

2. No INST software or other licensed material will be allowed on computers not owned by INST without the express written consent of the Director.

3. Requests for software installation or purchases are to be sent to the Helpdesk via e-mail to help@inst.msstate.edu. Requests are to include the manufacturer and title of the software package as well as the number of licenses needed.

4. Software purchases will not be carried out without the approval of the Systems Administrator and Business Manager.

5. The Systems Administration Unit will carry out all software installation. Users are strictly prohibited from installing software without the knowledge and consent of the Systems Administrator.

6. Acceptable Use Guidelines of Mississippi State University and INST govern the use of INST software as well as computer systems and other assets.

Compliance:
Any employee found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.