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New Student ResNet Guide
New Student ResNet Guide
Students new to campus or the residence halls should use the following guide to connect their personal computer to the internet. This guide explains what to bring, what to do before you come to campus to secure your computer, and how to connect your computer to the network upon arrival. Check out the information on our computer centers even if you are going to bring a computer to campus to see the software and hardware we offer.
Please note: These directions do not apply to incoming Orchard Downs and Ashton Woods residents. Please see the separate technology pages for more information.
Computer Needs
In order to make sure you can connect to the internet, there are certain requirements your computer needs to meet. These are:
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Virus Scanner - downloadable for free from CITES WebStore. It is important to install the virus scanner on your computer BEFORE coming to school to ensure you do not get infected with a virus and then quarantined.
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Latest OS updates - downloadable for free from Microsoft or Apple. It is essential to have the latest OS updates for your computer in order to improve system reliability and to protect it from known security vulnerabilities. Windows XP should be updated to Service Pack 3, and Windows Vista should be updated to Service Pack 1. If you were never on the internet at home, your computer will not have any of these critical updates, so you will need to install them immediately after installing a virus scanner.
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User Password - In order to prevent your computer from attacks make sure you ALL usernames have a PASSWORD.
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Fight Spyware - If your computer was on the internet at home, it likely has some spyware on it. Spyware can slow down your connection and give out personal information. There are many free spyware programs available online, but it is recommended that you install Spybot or Ad-Aware because we can verify that they are safe programs. These programs will also rid your computer of pop-up ads and browser hijacks which may break your internet connection.
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Hardware Requirements- If you would like information on what type of computer is recommended for use you can see our Recommended Computer Systems page.
What to bring
Besides the obvious response of "a computer!" here are a few other important things to bring:
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Drivers & Operating System Disks- These disks came with your computer when you first purchased it. They are often labeled with words such as "application CD," "re-install," or "system restore." Bring them to school in case something happens to your computer and you would have to re-install any hardware or software applications.
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Ethernet Cable- All rooms are provided with a special blue cable (or in the case of Daniels, no cable is provided) which allows ONE computer to be connected to the network. You can purchase black 14-foot network cables from the front desk for only $5 if you need one.
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Mini Hub- In order to connect more than one computer per room, you will need to use a mini-hub. You will find one of these in your room when you move in. In Daniels Hall, Sherman Hall, or the apartments at Goodwin and Green we do not have hubs available for rent, therefore you must purchase your own hub if you would like to hook up more than one computer. If you want to connect more than one computer to the network, or if you would just like to have a mini-hub of your own, you can purchase one at most major computing retailers. These mini-hubs typically cost under $50. (We use a 10/100 Linksys EZXS55W mini-switch) You cannot have a wireless hub in you room.
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Printer- There are laser printers in all of the computer centers with black and white printing for 3 cents a page and many labs also have color lasers at 20 cents a page. You can print to the lab lasers from your room using these instructions. You may choose the convenience of having your own printer in your residence hall room, but don't forget those driver disks!
Once you are on campus
After unpacking your computer, locate the clear bag containing a computer cable and hub that was in your room upon move in. Then it is time to connect to the network. The "Steps to the Net" booklet, also included with the cable and hub, describes how to connect your computer. The steps below contain more in depth information about connecting.
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Set up Cables
: Our system is non-standard so please follow these instructions carefully. The lower wall jack is for the internet. First things first, put the blue or teal cable with the SMALL END INTO THE WALL, big end into the computer (or hub)! Don't assume you have it right, just because it fits! If you need more information on connecting the cables and hub, select the appropriate link: Daniels Hall or all other Residence Halls.
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Configure software settings: If you have a problem getting onto the network, verify that your network connection settings are correct using this guide. Still having issues? Try the tips on our Tools & Hints from a NetTech page.
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Need Help? If something is still not working after trying the above steps look through our technology pages then try contacting a NetTech.