Computing Software Copyright (D-43)

Original Implementation: July 27, 1999
Last Revision: July 21, 2009

Purpose and Scope

Most software on computers at Stephen F. Austin State University is protected by federal copyright laws. In addition to the copyright laws, there usually is a license agreement between the software seller and the purchaser to protect the software. Educational institutions are not exempt from legislation covering copyrights. The university's policy is to adhere to the copyright protections given under federal law, and to adhere to the conditions of the license agreement. The following policies and procedures apply.

Policies and Procedures

Software provided through the university for use by faculty, staff, and students shall be used on computing equipment only as appropriate to the specific software licenses.
Licensed software shall not be copied on university equipment except as specifically permitted by the software license (to create a backup copy, for example).
Faculty, staff, and students may not use unlicensed or unauthorized copies of software on university owned computers, or any computer connected to the university network.
The individual who normally uses a specific computer is responsible for ensuring and documenting via license agreement or proof of purchase that the software used on that machine is licensed. An appropriate designated assignee is responsible when the same machine is used by several persons.
For a multi-user computing system, the director of the organizational unit owning the system, or the manager responsible for its operation, shall document licenses and inform users of licensing conditions and take reasonable actions to ensure compliance.
It is a violation of university policy to knowingly use or attempt to use software which is not authorized for use under normal operating procedures.
The university may audit software on university owned equipment at any time, with or without notice to the designated users. The university may request permission to audit software on non-university equipment that is connected to the university network as a condition of approval to use such equipment on the network.

Sanctions for Policy Violations

Unauthorized or unlicensed use of software is a serious matter. Faculty, staff, and students should bring known or suspected violations of these policies to the attention of supervisors or other responsible persons such as the director of Information Technology Services. Any individual violating these policies is required to take immediate remedial action, e.g., remove the unlicensed software from the machine. Persons refusing to do so are subject to university disciplinary procedures.

Cross Reference: Computer and Network Security, D-8.1

Responsible for Implementation: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Contact for Revision: Director of Information Technology Services

Forms: None