Computer and Electronic Usage Policies

Computer Networks Acceptable Use Guidelines 

Access and use of computing and networking resources at Hofstra University are privileges extended to members of the Hofstra community. Access to Hofstra computing and networking resources is limited to authorized users and is for approved purposes only. The Computer Networks Acceptable Use Guidelines provide a list of responsibilities for all Hofstra computer and network users, information about the acceptable use of the Hofstra network, World Wide Web guidelines and procedures for all Hofstra University computers, and restrictions on use of bandwidth. 

Students are responsible for adhering to all acceptable use guidelines. Violations of the acceptable use guidelines can result in loss of Hofstra University computing privileges, disconnection from the Hofstra network, fines, prosecution under applicable civil or criminal laws, and University sanctions as outlined in the Code of Community Standards. 

To review Hofstra’s Computer Networks Acceptable Use Guidelines, please visit hofstra.edu/computeracceptableuse.  

Copyright Infringement 

All students should be aware that unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, may subject them to civil and criminal liability. 

Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under Section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement. 

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or "statutory" damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For "willful" infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, at its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys' fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505. 

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. 

For more information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office at https://www.copyright.gov/, especially the FAQ at www.copyright.gov/help/faq. 

Students who engage in illegal downloading or unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material may also be charged with failure to comply with the Acceptable Use Guidelines in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Code of Community Standards, and may be subject to loss of Hofstra University computing privileges, disconnection from the Hofstra network, and additional University sanctions as outlined in the Code of Community Standards.   

Portal and Email Accounts 

All Hofstra students receive an online portal account. Students can use the Hofstra portal account to access various University computer services, such as to connect to the wireless network, access email, print documents, and store files on the Hofstra network. Faculty and school administration regularly communicate important information to students via their Hofstra email account. Therefore, students are responsible for accessing their Hofstra email account on a regular basis to check for important communications. 

Use of the Hofstra network and email account and all other Hofstra computing facilities is subject to Hofstra University’s Computer Networks Acceptable Use Guidelines, which are available at hofstra.edu/computeracceptableuse.