The information and guidelines on this page can assist you to purchase, use, and secure Apple iOS devices.
For general information about all mobile devices (smart phones and tablets) at Towson University see the Mobile Device Support web site.
IMPORTANT: iOS devices (iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch) are NOT secured with a password when purchased. iOS device owners are advised to set a password immediately to protect your device and data, see number 3 below for details. All iOS devices that connect to the university Exchange email system will be required to set a password.
1. About iPads
The iPad is a personal computer device and is convenient in terms of ease of use and portability. However, there are limitations including: don't run standard software such as Microsoft Office; the absensce of Flash player (common web application);; and they require additional configuration to connect to university products and services such as your H: and O: drives . Generally, iPads are currently seen as supplemental computing device that do not replace primary desktop or laptop computers. As the lines between laptop and tablet computers shrink and functionality increases, tablets may eventually become a viable option as a primary computer for faculty and staff. OTS will continue to monitor the development of mobile devices.
The iPad and iPod Touch are designed as personal devices used by a single person. Sharing iPads in a classroom or group adds some complexity that requires management of the devices. The Towson University iOS Deployment Guide outlines considerations and resources necessary for a successful implementation.
3. iPad Security and Best Practices
As a portable device, iOS devices are particularly susceptible to loss or theft (30% of mobile devices are lost or stolen). It is essential that you protect your iPad and yourself by following the best practices below.
A. QUICKLY Configure Apple iOS devicesfor Towson University Resources
You can quickly configure your iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch to connect to the tu-secure wireless network and the university e-mail server; and enable a passcode (password) on your device by going to the software downloads page below and selecting the For Faculty and Staff Only section to download and install the configuration file at: http://www.towson.edu/adminfinance/ots/downloadsforms/softwaredownloads.asp (use your NetID to log on)
B. Manually Set Passcode: to manually set a passcode (password) on your iPad to prevent unauthorized access. Without a passcode, anyone that powers on your iPad will have access to everything on it including your e-mail and calendar.
It only takes a minute to set a passcode on your iPad by following the procedures below:
Power on the iPad and go to Settings>General>Passcode Lock
A. University Purchases: to assure that you purchase the device that best suits your needs and is properly processed as a university asset, call the Faculty/Staff Help Center at 410-704-5151, select menu options 2+2+2 or fill out Web Support Request to request a brief consultation. Staff will assist you through the purchase process.
Shared iPads: If you are purchasing an iPad/s that will be shared in a classroom or group setting, there are a number of additional considerations necessary to manage the shared iPads. The Towson University iOS Deployment Guide outlines considerations and resources to manage iOS devices.
C. Wi-Fi + cellular data option:
iPads rely on wireless network connections to connect to the Internet and will work on campus without the optional cellular data option. If you travel off campus and need Internet connections you will likely want to purchase an iPad model that includes a cellular data option. To enable the cellular data service, you purchase a monthly or longer contract with a provider, for details see http://www.apple.com/ipad/.
Apps for iOS devices (iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch)
To add functionality to your iPad, there are numerous apps available for the Apple iPad online. University p-cards can be used to purchase apps for university academic, research, or business needs. The university also has established an App Store Volume Purchasing Program (ASVPP). For details on purchasing Apple products software see:
A. Primary assistance for iPads is provided by Apple on their Web sites and iPad forums. For more information see Apple�s iPad Home Page: http://www.apple.com/ipad/
