Enhanced Security Service for Safer Web Browsing

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the security of our users’ daily working and learning experience, UIS has deployed an enhanced version of its secure internet gateway service. The new service is called BloxOne Threat Defense and it helps you navigate the web more securely and confidently with protection from malicious sites, which could be the source of phishing scams, malware, ransomware, or other security risks.

Those of you with Georgetown-managed computers or those of you on the Georgetown network may see a small addition to your computer system tray or you may see a message alerting you that a particular website or link is blocked. There’s no cause for alarm, it’s just UIS at work protecting you and your data.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is BloxOne Threat Defense?

BloxOne provides secure access to the internet and usage of cloud apps everywhere.  It acts as a domain-inspector that provides the first line of defense against threats on the internet, protecting Georgetown users from accessing malicious sites, which could be the source of phishing scams, malware, ransomware, or other cyber security risks.

How did it get on my computer?

UIS pushed the BloxOne client to Georgetown-managed computers so that their internet-bound traffic is protected from wherever they are. The deployment method was coded as a “silent install” so that it would run in the background not disrupt your work or computer operations.

How does it work on my computer?

The BloxOne client displays as a small cloud icon in your computer’s system tray and it is designed to have virtually no impact on your computer’s speed, performance, or computing power.

Protected Your device is fully protected against malicious attacks by BloxOne.

Unprotected Your device could become vulnerable to malicious attacks.  Contact the UIS Help Desk

Once you attempt to visit a known malicious, compromised, or infected website from the Georgetown network, BloxOne will prevent you from reaching that destination and display a warning message to you alerting you to the issue.

How do I get a site unblocked?

If you reach a site that has been blocked as malicious, you can request that UIS review the site and allow network access. After receiving your request, UIS will examine the site to confirm that no threat or vulnerability exists, and the site can be released from the restricted list in a matter of minutes. You can select “Report an incorrect block” on the warning message and follow those instructions. *Not every request will be accommodated if there is an actual threat identified

Can I get it installed on my personal computer?

The client is currently only deployed to Georgetown-managed computers. Contact the Help Desk for assistance if you have questions about your device.

Am I protected if I work from a computer that doesn’t have the client?

Yes. UIS has implemented “roaming” protection to include any internet-bound traffic that is managed by the Georgetown wired and wireless networks, whether it’s from a managed computer or not.

Who do I call if I have more questions?

Contact the UIS Service Desk at help@georgetown.edu with your BloxOne questions.