Pitt Digital will upgrade the University's Domain Name System (DNS) Monday, August 10, from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m.
While we do not anticipate any disruptions during this upgrade, it is possible you could experience brief, intermittent unavailability of some University applications and websites — for up to 5 minutes — between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m.
This upgrade will enable University systems to automatically direct devices along the fastest, most secure path, whether you're connecting from on or off campus. We have communicated to our IT Partners in schools and departments that action will be required on their part before and after the maintenance window.
We appreciate your patience as we work to enhance the security and performance of University network services.
Before the Upgrade: Freeze Period for DNS Changes
To ensure the stability of the DNS environment, Pitt Digital will place a moratorium on DNS record additions, modifications, or deletions beginning Thursday, August 6, at 10 p.m. through 10 p.m. on Monday, August 10. If you are planning a DNS change (for example, adding a new device to the network or launching a new website), be sure to submit your DNS change request before August 6.
After the Upgrade: Test Systems and Applications
After the upgrade, test your department's systems and applications to ensure they are working as expected. Pitt Digital recommends you test internal application access from campus, remote access via PittNet VPN, public-facing department websites and services, cloud-hosted resources, and any applications with hardcoded DNS settings.
Because computers and browsers cache DNS settings, some issues may not immediately surface. Please continue to monitor your systems through Monday, August 17, for issues that may arise after cached DNS entries expire.