Endpoint Security and Cisco Umbrella
Endpoint security is the practice of securing desktops, laptops, and mobile devices from being exploited by malicious threats. This is an important part of securing Auburn University data and access to Auburn data. It is easy to believe that the average employee does not have data worth protecting, but this is far from true. Data security is vital and protecting electronic resources is important whether you are at work or at home.
Auburn secures data in many ways, including secure passwords, 2Factor authentication, DNS Security, antivirus software, and more. For this article, we will focus on Cisco Umbrella.
DNS Security – Cisco Umbrella
Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-hosted DNS solution that protects users by blocking connections to non-Auburn websites that have been reported as malicious. It is a first line of defense against websites which could be the source of phishing scams, malware, ransomware, or other cybersecurity threats.
How do I install Cisco Umbrella on my Auburn device?
Cisco Umbrella is pushed to your device by OIT or, in some areas, by your departmental IT team. It is what is called a “silent install” and will run in the background so that it does not disrupt your work.
How can I check to see if Cisco Umbrella is installed and running on my Auburn University device?
On a Windows device, click Start > Type "Services," then look for Umbrella Roaming Client.
Windows:
*On a Windows device, it only shows in the system tray if it is installed manually. When installed silently by your IT staff, the icon will not be displayed.
Mac:
When Umbrella is pushed to a Mac computer by your IT staff, it runs in the background and will only put an icon in the system tray if the app is opened from the application folder in the Finder. Otherwise, it runs in the background and will not display in the system tray.
DNS Security – Cisco Secure Client
Throughout 2024, OIT is in the process of migrating systems to the Cisco Secure Client instead of the Cisco Umbrella Roaming Client. Below are screenshots of how the Cisco Secure Client will appear if installed on a device:
Windows:
Mac:
Frequently Asked Questions - Cisco Umbrella:
I do not see Cisco Umbrella installed on my Auburn computer. How do I request an install?
Contact the OIT Service Desk or your departmental IT Provider.
How will this affect my browsing?
It should not affect your browsing. You would only notice a difference if you happened to browse to a site with malicious content.
Will Cisco Umbrella block access to a legitimate website?
Cisco Umbrella might initially block access to new domains or websites to prevent potential malware from exploiting them to avoid detection. However, if these domains or sites are legitimate, they are reviewed and unblocked within 24 hours. If not, please report them to the OIT Service Desk.
How will I know if I attempt to access a website that Cisco Umbrella is blocking?
Depending upon your browser, you will see one of the following notifications:
How do I request a domain or site be unblocked?
All Newly Seen Domains are automatically unblocked after 24 hours. If you need quicker access to a domain, you may submit a request via the "Report an incorrect block" link on the block page. Alternatively, you may request to have a domain put on the Allow List here: https://aub.ie/domainallowlist
Will Cisco Umbrella slow my computer?
No. You should not notice a change to the speed of your computer.
Can I install Cisco Umbrella on my home or personal device?
Visit https://www.opendns.com/home-internet-security/ to learn more about options for personal use.
Who do I call if I need help or have questions?
Contact the OIT Service Desk or your departmental IT Provider.