Host on Demand (HOD)

Java v1.6 Update 6 incompatibility issues and risk management

The recently released Java v1.6 Update 6 does not work with all HOD client types. You might not be able to use HOD if you upgrade Java to this version and have not installed the HOD Cached Client.

Install the HOD Cached Client

We recommend you install and use the HOD Cached Client with the Java v1.6 Update 6.

The HOD Cached Client will work with Java v1.6 Update 6.

Future upgrades of the HOD system may require a removal and reinstall of the HOD Cached Client.

Security risks in older versions of Java

Older versions of Java pose a heightened risk of compromise. To mitigate this risk to some degree, we recommend:

1. Do not retain sensitive or regulated data in an unencrypted form on their machines. If you must retain sensitive or regulated data on their machines, contact your IT Node support for advice.
2. Be extra vigilant and careful about the web sites you visit. Periodically, legitimate websites have been compromised with Java scripts that attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in Java. These scripts may be used to gain access to sensitive data on your computer.

HOD may work with Firefox and Netscape

Some customers have reported that the HOD Download Client and the Java v1.6 Update 6 do work within Firefox v2.0.0.14 and Netscape v7. The HOD Download Client and Java v1.6 Update 6 do not work within Internet Explorer v6 or v7.

If you've upgraded already

If you upgrade and are not using the HOD Cached Client, you will be able to login to HOD. When you try to start your Display Session you may see the following error message at the bottom of the Display window:

Failed to connect to server/host ubibm.buffalo.edu and port 1001. 

If you have already upgraded to Java v1.6 Update 6 and you cannot use the HOD Download Client within Firefox or Netscape, please install the HOD Cached Client.

Support

If you have problems or questions regarding HOD, please contact your Departmental Node IT Staff first. If you do not have Node IT support, contact HOD Support at hod-support@buffalo.edu