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Attacks on Penn’s computer networks continue to increase in number and sophistication every year. As a result, we are continually working to strengthen our Information Security program and improve our ability to protect campus resources.
In October of this year, Penn will be deploying a campus firewall to help prevent network attacks and limit the number of computer compromises affecting PennNet. The new University Firewall will identify and block malicious traffic while allowing Penn’s desired in-bound traffic.
The first phase of the University Firewall implementation will take place over the next 4-6 weeks, as ISC works closely with IT staff from Schools and Centers across campus to test and configure the system and its advanced features. Upon successful completion of this validation phase in early October, the University Firewall will be activated, blocking network threats and providing real-time protections for PennNet users.
Note that this service will be deployed in a manner consistent with Penn’s commitment to open expression and electronic privacy. Because the University Firewall will only be blocking known-bad (i.e., unwanted or malicious) traffic when the service is initiated, PennNet users should not experience undue disruptions to their normal service.
To learn more about the University Firewall service, visit: https://www.isc.upenn.edu/university-firewall
For details about how the University Firewall is expected to affect your local network environment, please speak with your Local Support Provider (LSP): https://www.isc.upenn.edu/get-it-help
For additional technical details on the University Firewall, attend a Security Special Interest Group presentation on Thursday, September 22; for more info, see https://www.isc.upenn.edu/events/security-sig-campus-firewall-presentation
—ISC’s Office of Information Security
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