Virus Utilities

Virus utilities keep out viruses (malicious logic) that can attack computer system software. This type of software is normally designed to prevent both "known and unknown viruses" from invading a system, and detects and removes those already present. What is a virus? you might ask.

A virus is a self replicating, malicious program segment that attaches itself to an application program or other executable system component and leaves no obvious signs of its presence. And just like any bacterial disease, it can spread from disk to disk.

Viruses take advantage of the sequential step-by-step process that the computer follows. The virus is read into the computer via a peripheral device (tape drive, diskette drive, communication device, and soon) from a previously infected software application. The virus then inspects the first few instructions of each program until it finds a program that does not begin with the same instructions as itself. Then it attaches a copy of its own instruction set to the front of the program being examined. The spread of the virus comes from inspecting and duplicating itself. Execution of programs may seem to appear normal until the virus strikes. A virus can destroy data files and programs, depending on its design. Be particularly careful about putting new software on your computer; if it contains a virus, it can infect your other programs and data, giving ^{you big problems.} Your ISSO and Naval Computer Incident Response Team (NAVCIRT) can assist you in the detection and eradication of the virus.

Processing AIS Service Requests

Your first task may be to receive jobs from users. Each job will have an AIS service request of some type. A typical AIS service request is illustrated in chapter 1 of Module 1 (figure 1-2). In looking over this form, you will notice that it provides you with all the information needed to run the job.

LIBRARY FUNCTIONS

As a librarian, your job encompasses many duties and tasks vital to the smooth operation within your ^{installation.} Usually, you will find that there are instructions and/or standard operating procedures (SOPS) to help guide you along in different areas of library procedure and toward establishing a highly functional library.

But what about you? What should you know or be aware of when working in the AIS media library? The answer to that question is the topic of our discussion: library functions. Put briefly, as a librarian, your job is to become as proficient as possible in the different areas of library management, by learning all the ins and outs, you might say. You will need to know how to receive, handle, maintain (condition, clean, and retire), store, issue, and transfer magnetic media. You will be working with a minimum of supervision and will have to work well with other people to provide the needed services in a timely manner.

As the AIS librarian, you can be expected to perform any one, several, or all of the following tasks:

. Keep an adequate supply of magnetic media (scratch tapes, initialized disk packs, diskettes, and cassettes) available in the library and/or in the computer area ready for use. 

. Retrieve and file magnetic media in accordance with command policy. 

l Maintain a current inventory of all magnetic ^media. Control tapes (save tapes, work tapes, and scratch tapes) on a rotational basis. 

l Test tapes for quality, and clean and degauss tapes and disks according to prearranged schedules or upon release by programmers and in-house users. 

. Ensure that all magnetic media is acclimated to the atmosphere in which it will be used for at least 24 hours before releasing it for use. 

. Inspect new tapes and install BOT and EOT reflectors if not provided by the manufacturer.

. File newly created tapes after checking the identification tape reel number against the tape strap number (if used) and verifying that the security classification on the label matches that on the tape reel. 

. Refile previously created tapes, being careful to scrutinize each as if it were a newly created tape. 

. Strip tapes (by removing the first 100 feet) when the error rate increases and replace the beginning-of-tape (BOT) reflector. If a tape has damage to its end, remove the last 100 feet and replace the end-of-tape (EOT) reflector.

. Keep all system tapes and disks in good condition at all times. l Maintain a record of tapes and disks that have been cleaned by stamping the Julian date on a cleaning label on the back surface of the tape reel or disk pack canister. 

. Clean disk pack covers according to schedule or as the need arises. 

l Maintain and distribute tape and disk error and usage reports. 

. Maintain control of certain required data files, program files, and various types of microforms (microfilm/microfiche). 

l File all library materials in a neat, organized, and uniform manner.

. Have a standard operating procedure (SOP) instruction manual, indicating all library procedures, readily available.

. Have an adequate supply of save (external) labels and classification labels available for the computer operators. Q Check all user submitted save labels with job/run request sheets to ensure they are correct. 

. Check save labels to ensure they indicate no more than a 90-day save request, and that only one 90-day extension is granted before the tape is copied to another tape. 

. Ensure all users annotate, initial, and return their weekly copy of the release report, indicating what tapes are to be scratched, cleaned, degaussed, stripped, or mailed off-site; or any other action they deem necessary.

. Collect a copy of the save labels from the operators for the tape library tape/disk database file (only if the site has an automated tape library control system) and supported software.

. Maintain off-site storage of tapes and disks for disaster recovery.

. Maintain a current list of all foreign (outside) tapes and disks received and return them on schedule.

. Ensure fire-fighting equipment in the library is maintained and inspected by appropriate personnel (fire department, damage control petty officer, and so on) in accordance with command policy.

. Update fire-fighting instructions as necessary..

. Maintain the correct temperature and humidity in the library.

. Maintain security requirements and access to the library area. 

. Ensure unauthorized persons do not remove magnetic media or related materials from the library. 

. Promptly report any and all problems to your supervisor, leading chief, or other appropriate personnel in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPS).

As you see by this list, there is a lot to do. In anyone day, you may perform one or many of these tasks.

Practice being a good communicator, and adopt orderly work habits.