How funny that I was willing to say that government employees should be forced to use free software before learning of the July 17th memorandum from Sean O'Keefe, "Leadership, Responsibility and Authority for the Security of Louisiana State University's Information Technology Infrastructure." My fear of such force is that it could be used to strip users of their freedom and force use of commercial software. So, the very next day, I seem have my worst fears confirmed.
These are some questions I had about the new policy: Is it true that that Active Directory gives central IT complete control over the host computer? ?Can software can be installed without user permission and can the user's information be searched, modified or destroyted without further notice? ?Is it also true that this program decides which Microsoft OS may connect to LSU networks? ? Has LSU's Public Safety Office, which includes Police, Parking and other Offices been given an exemption? ?If so, why? Will other operating systems like GNU/Linux and OSX be allowed to connect to LSU networks? ?Will administrative control of them also be demanded? Will students be forced to participate if they want to use LSU networks? ?Can this program make it difficult for free software users to access other services offered through LSU's network?
