Operation Regulations

for the communication network of the University of Konstanz

(Network Operation Regulations NOR)

The University of Konstanz and its institutions operate an infrastructure for information processing that consists of data processing systems (computers), communication systems (networks) and further supporting devices for information processing.

The present regulations manage operation and utilisation of the university's communication network. They are aimed at guaranteeing a constant, smooth, efficient, secure and cost-effective exchange of digital data (e.g. characters, speech and pictures).

The information processing infrastructure is integrated into the German Science Network and is therefore integrated into the worldwide web. Internal communication in the university and information exchange with national and international associates require a reliable and secure local communication infrastructure. The following regulations aim at being able to guarantee a continuous and undisturbed utilisation of this infrastructure to all of the University of Konstanz' authorised users.

The resource "network" is not unboundedly available. Therefore, economical use and users' mutual consideration are to be kept in mind.

1 The Communication Network

1.1 The communication network of the University of Konstanz (hereinafter referred to as net) is a central infrastructural resource for communication needs. It is operated by the university's IT Service Centre (ITSC).

1.2 All communication channels, switchings and network plugs form part of the net as well as all other devices which - irrespective of the used technology and the resulting performance features - are essential for the guarantee of a proper operation of the net. In particular, all wiring rooms and connection devices to external networks form part of it. Computer and other devices, e.g. subswitches, as well as the dedicated device cables plugged into network plugs are not part of the net, they belong to the respective user and need to be procured, operated and maintained by the user.

1.3 The relative equipment for the power supply system as well as the building equipment, and - until further notice  - the telephone network are not part of the network.

1.4 Network access is provided according to the approved planning for an area-wide net, according to the particular resources at disposal and according to priority specified by the Senate, in co-operation with the Information Technology Service Centre, the building authorities and the affected organisational units.

2 General Operation Regulations

2.1 As the network operator, the ITSC is responsible for the development and operation of the net to the point of the network plugs. Standardised protocols needed for communication and interfaces with terminals are selected and specified by the EDP committee according to international standards and with particular consideration for functionality relevant for the area of science. Changes owed to advancements, required in the face of compatibility with advancing norms and standards in national and international science networks, will be given due notice by the ITSC.

2.2 The ITSC operates the central dial-up hosts into the net as well as the central external connections. In particular, it operates and supervises the connection to the BelWü- respectively DFN research network and therefore to the internet.

2.3 In case of hazard to network operation as well as unacceptable interference or disruption of network operation via an access point, the ITSC reserves the right to impose adequate and required conditions or put connection lines out of service to ensure network availability and security.

2.4 If subswitches are operated in the user's facilities, ITSC access has to be guaranteed - in case of an emergency even out of hours. This means that not only must the distributor cabinets be kept accessible but also the ITSC must be independent of outside help and therefore hold its own keys for the relevant rooms.

2.5 Connection data arising in network operation may - irrespective of further regulations due to other legal basis - be used for the purposes of planning and operation of the net.

3 Subnets

3.1 The net is segmented into subnets, which are generally associated to the University of Konstanz' organisational units. Besides load sharing, security aspects are to be considered for network segmentation (aggregation of systems with similar security requirements, possibility of failure containment).

3.2 Organisational units may operate a subnet on their own if a skilled staff member is appointed as Net Administrator (NA), who is permanently available as contact person for technical and operational questions.

3.3 Tasks like e.g. relocation or new connection of computers within the subnet may be delegated to the NA. Global network parameters (computer name, IP address etc.) are to be coordinated with the ITSC. The NA may set up local dial-up hosts within the subnet.

3.4 The NA is responsible for the duly operation of the subnet, in particular of dial-up hosts. The NA is also responsible for protecting the subnet from unauthorised access.

4 Services of the ITSC

4.1 The ITSC provides constant, reliable and secure network operation within the limits of the given technical and organisational possibilities; scheduled operation breaks are announced to users in time.

4.2 The ITSC advises users on selection of end devices and network cards as well as on questions about network utilisation.

4.3 If no NA is available to an organisational unit, the ITSC undertakes connection and start-up of the user's end devices. These end devices are to be procured after advice of ITSC by the user and configured according to global network parameters obtained from the ITSC.

4.4 The ITSC maintains a network fault-clearance service. During office hours, the service accepts failure reports and instantly carries out fault clearance. Error detection, error tracking and network administration may only be carried out by staff members or third party contractors which are particularly briefed on the task.

4.5 The ITSC provides an up-to-date documentation of the net and its applicability.

4.6 The ITSC assigns network addresses and keeps the university-wide address files. It is responsible for network management and ensures availability of network operation.

5 Users' duties

5.1 For any end device connected to the network, a responsible user has to be named to the ITSC in the network connection application.

5.2 Changes to the network - in particular changes of network addresses or computer names - are illegal and may be carried out by an NA only.

5.3 Users are obligated to immediately report noticed damages of network components as well as any failures or other irregularities of network operation to the NA or the ITSC.

6 Liability

6.1 The university is not liable for any damages to end devices resulting from connection to the network and its subnets. In addition, the university is not liable for any damages resulting from other network users' misuse.

6.2 The user is liable within the limits of statutory provisions and labour law provisions for all culpably caused damages resulting from breaches of the present operation regulation. Within the limits of this liability the user is obligated to keep the university free of third party claims for damages.

The present NOR was passed by the Senate of the University of Konstanz on February 18th, 1998.