Travel Consultation
Planning to travel? Please meet with a technician to discuss technology best practices, how to safeguard your data, and answer your questions and concerns.
If you plan on working while travelling internationally the SoN IT Service Desk has specific steps to ensure your data and the equipment you are working on are secure.
Features
- Enhanced Security: Ensure your devices are secure with up-to-date antivirus software and proper configurations.
- Device Protection: Record and store the serial numbers of your devices to ensure easy device tracking and recovery.
- Secure Access: Learn how to use the Husky OnNet VPN to encrypt your data traffic, ensuring secure access to university systems.
- Prevent Data Theft: Get data blockers to protect your devices from data theft and juice jacking when using public USB ports.
- Proper Device Management: Determine if a specially configured travel work computer is needed and understand the process for returning.
Availability
- Students
- Faculty
- Staff
Cost
- This service is part of the offerings provided by the SoN IT Service Desk.
Supported Platforms
- This service operates independently of any platform.
International Travel
Important Notice for International Travel:
- For security and operational reasons, employees must use a specially configured loaner work computer for international travel instead of their assigned work computer or personal device. Please schedule an appointment with the SoN IT Service Desk at least two weeks prior to your departure.
Next Steps:
- (MANDATORY) Book a travel consultation appointment (UW NetID Required) with one of our technicians 2 weeks before you travel.
- You will receive a loaner computer with specific security configurations.
- Only use the loaner computer for work abroad. Do not use personal laptops or previously assigned work computers.
- (MANDATORY) Return the loaner travel computer immediately upon return from travel to SoN IT Service Desk to be wiped and examined.
- Please review the general tips.
Secured Loaner Laptop
To ensure the safety of school work and data, a highly secure loaner laptop may be required. This laptop includes enhanced security features such as:
- Automatic Screen Lock: Devices lock automatically after a period of inactivity for security.
- Encrypted Drives: Protection of sensitive data through encryption, preventing unauthorized access.
- Secure Data Management: Automatically clears browser sessions and deletes locally stored files.
General Tips
- Use the Husky OnNet VPN (UW NetID Required) to encrypt all traffic when accessing university systems and data.
- Only access/process the minimal data set necessary to do your work.
- As much as possible, store your data on OneDrive and only download what you need to the local computer.
- Use a data blocker when charging or using USB ports while at airports or other public places to avoid your data getting stolen and/or juice jacking (Borrow a blocker from SoN IT here)
- Once returned from Travel, we recommend changing your UW NetID password and any other passwords for the university systems you used while traveling.
If you have any questions or need help, please contact the SoN IT Service Desk.
View the linked resources below for training guides.
Q: Can I use my personal laptop when traveling abroad?
A: Using a personal or existing work laptop for university tasks abroad is not allowed due to security and operational reasons. UW devices have the necessary security measures, comply with university policies, and ensure data integrity. They also allow the SoN IT Service Desk to assist more effectively. This helps protect both personal and university data, ensuring a secure and efficient work environment while traveling.
Q: Why can I not store files on the loaner laptop?
A: A local file is stored on your device and accessible offline but can be lost if the device is damaged or files are deleted for security. Travel laptops provided by the SoN IT Service Desk are configured to delete all local files automatically every time the laptop is closed for security reasons. A cloud file, stored on remote servers, is accessible from any device with internet, and offers better security, automatic backups, and easier sharing. Keeping files on the cloud ensures they are safe, secure, and always accessible.
Q: If traveling domestically, will I need a loaner laptop or to book an appointment with the SoN IT Service Desk?
A: You will not need a loaner laptop, continue to use your assigned work device for university work, do not use your personal device.
