Who is affected?

Users with Java installed and enabled in their browsers. The Java browser plug-in is necessary for UW users to access the Banner student information system, for instance.

More details:

There is a major security risk in Java 7. Java 7 is used with many Internet browsers that are accessing UW web pages and the Banner student information system. The risk exploits the security vulnerability that can allow remote attacks on computers.

IT recommends that you upgrade to the latest version of Java 7. In many cases, after a reboot, Java will try to automatically update the software on your computer. We recommend rebooting your computer and accepting (click “Yes”) if you are prompted with the update question. You can also manually download and install the latest version at java.com, and click on the Free Java Download button. Follow the instructions for your computer.

If you are later browsing to public, non-UW sites after you upgrade the software and Java asks you to accept any changes to your computer, decline the changes. This is an indication malicious software is attempting to run on your computer.

Problem resolution:

If you experience problems with your web browser while using UW web sites and applications, please contact the IT Help Desk at 307-766-4357 (6-HELP), option 1 or email userhelp@uwyo.edu. They will help determine what is causing the problem and provide a solution.

In general, IT recommends updating both your web browser and Java to the most recent release. Users who access Internet Native Banner (INB) and who run Imaging’s WebNow software require Java version 6.

If you use any of the following methods, you are accessing Internet Native Banner and should run Java 6:

1. https://wyoinb.uwyo.edu/welcome-index.html and then use the Production Database_[BNRPROD] link.
2. Through WyoWeb and then using the My Banner link (not the “Banner Self-Service” link).
3. https://wyoinb.uwyo.edu.

If you are accessing Banner by any other means then you are going into Banner Self-Service and you should update to Java 7, Update 13. To uninstall version 7 and install version 6, follow these instructions.

Users should be aware that there may be legitimate non-UW web sites and applications that require Java 6. If you encounter problems accessing or running software after upgrading to Java 7, Update 13, IT recommends uninstalling version 7, and installing version 6. Some users may have unique situations where they need a mix of browsers and Java versions. Your IT consultant can customize your software to meet those needs.

If you encounter any problems or have any questions in regards to updating browsers and Java, do not hesitate to contact the IT Help Desk at 766-4357 (6-HELP), option 1, or email userhelp@uwyo.edu.

Information Technology apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause you. Please contact your departmental consultant, call the Help Desk at 766-HELP (4357), option 1, or send an email to the Help Desk (userhelp@uwyo.edu) if you have any questions.