The Consortium for Research and Education Networking (CREN) is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to supporting over 220 universities, colleges, and research institutions. Governed by a 12-member Board of Trustees, CREN provides strategic IT knowledge services, robust communication tools, and specialized digital certificate services, positioning itself as a vital resource for the higher education and research community.
CREN’s Mission
At the heart of CREN’s operations is its mission to empower higher education and research institutions through strategic IT knowledge services and communication tools. By addressing the unique IT challenges faced by academic and research organizations, CREN ensures its members are equipped with innovative, practical, and future-proof solutions.
Specialized Services Provided by CREN
CREN’s services are diverse and tailored to meet the evolving needs of its members. These services can be broadly categorized into Digital Certificate Services, Strategic Knowledge Services, and Communication Tools.
- Digital Certificate Services
Digital security is paramount in today’s interconnected academic and research environment. CREN offers a comprehensive suite of digital certificate services, enabling institutions to secure their digital communications and data exchanges.
- CREN-Signed Campus Certificates:
Institutions with a significant need for web server and client certificates (e.g., 15 or more web server certificates and over 500-1000 client certificates) can benefit from CREN-signed campus certificates. These certificates empower institutions to issue secure certificates for their campus community. - Web Server Certificates:
CREN provides certificates specifically designed to secure communications between web servers and campus web applications. These certificates are essential for safeguarding sensitive data in a variety of campus services, such as student portals, research platforms, and administrative tools. - Client Certificates:
Through its internal cren.net service, CREN issues client certificates validated by a campus-designated registration contact. These certificates facilitate secure communication with vendors, federal agencies, and collaborators.
By leveraging CREN’s digital certificate services, institutions can enhance their cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring secure data exchanges both within and beyond their campuses.
- Strategic Knowledge Services
Recognizing the need for informed decision-making in IT, CREN offers knowledge-sharing platforms and resources designed to foster understanding of emerging technologies and their applications.
- CREN TechTalks:
This series of bimonthly webcasts features insightful discussions with leading experts in higher education IT. The interactive format allows participants to engage in live Q&A sessions, gaining valuable perspectives on technological trends and strategies. - Strategic and Practical FAQ Series:
For quick and practical guidance, CREN publishes a FAQ series covering core concepts of emerging infrastructure technologies. These guides are tailored to IT professionals, campus leaders, and academic committees, offering actionable insights to navigate complex IT landscapes.
By providing these knowledge services, CREN equips its members with the tools and information necessary to stay ahead in an ever-evolving technological environment.
- Communication Tools
Efficient communication is essential for collaboration and innovation in higher education and research. CREN offers advanced communication tools to support its members in managing their networks effectively.
- ListProc:
As the premiere UNIX-based mailing list management software, ListProc enables members to efficiently handle large-scale distributed mailing lists. Organizations like Lucent and Prodigy have relied on ListProc for its robust features and efficiency. CREN members benefit from 24/7 technical support for ListProc version 8.2.09 during their membership.
By offering dependable communication tools, CREN fosters seamless information sharing among its members, enhancing collaboration and productivity.
Business Alliances
CREN extends its support through strategic business alliances with leading technology companies, including Blackboard Inc., Microsoft, Adobe Systems, Cisco, Dell, Apple, and IBM, among others. These alliances provide CREN members access to cutting-edge solutions and services, amplifying the value of their membership.
Engagement Opportunities and Resources
CREN actively encourages its members to explore the range of services and resources it offers. Key engagement opportunities include:
- Digital Certificate Test CA Demo:
Members can request a CREN Test CA ‘Signature and Authentication Certificate’ and use it to interact with engaging features like the classic game of asteroids or a questionnaire on their experience. - TechTalk Archives:
Members can access an extensive archive of past CREN TechTalks, offering a wealth of knowledge on IT trends and strategies. - PKI Pilot School Insights:
Early adopters of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) can explore how digital certificates are being used in innovative campus applications. - Certificate Authority Updates:
Members can subscribe to email updates to stay informed about the latest developments in CREN’s certificate authority services. - ListProc Evaluation:
Members interested in CREN’s communication tools can download an evaluation copy of ListProc to explore its features firsthand.
Becoming a CREN Member
Institutions interested in joining CREN can explore the membership benefits on the organization’s website. Membership provides exclusive access to CREN’s digital certificate services, strategic knowledge platforms, and communication tools, backed by 24/7 technical support.
Conclusion
CREN is a vital partner for higher education and research institutions, offering a comprehensive suite of IT services, communication tools, and strategic resources. By addressing the unique challenges of its members, CREN empowers them to achieve their goals while staying at the forefront of technological innovation. Institutions seeking to enhance their IT capabilities and secure their digital communications will find CREN an invaluable ally in their journey.
For more details about CREN’s services, membership, and resources, visit the official CREN website and take the first step toward transforming your institution’s IT strategy.
