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3-RSNT (273-7768)

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FAQ

Below are some commonly asked questions about ResNet.

  1. What is ResNet?

  2. How many computers are on ResNet?

  3. How much does it cost to use ResNet and what do I need in order to use it?

  4. What operating systems are supported by ResNet?

  5. Why do I need to register my computer for ResNet Internet access?

  6. Why do University Apartments students need to manually register?

  7. How can I contact an RCC for assistance?

  8. I can't get my network card to work on ResNet. Does ResNet provide support for this?

  9. Can I use my wireless access point or switch/router?

  10. I already bought an anti-virus program at home. Do I have to use UNI's anti-virus?

  11. Can having a virus on my computer affect my Internet access? How can I remove a virus?

  12. I have a virus on my computer and ResNet staff told me I need to reformat. Why do I need to do this?

  13. I have access to ResNet, so why doesn't my e-mail/MyUNIverse work?

  14. What do I do if I'm having a problem with a lab computer?

  15. I am interested in becoming a RCC. Where do I go to inquire about employment opportunities?

  16. Why are Internet download speeds different at different times of the day?

  17. How do I register my video game console (Xbox, Gamecube, etc)?

1. What is ResNet?

For a good description of this, view our About Us page.

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2. How many computers are on ResNet?

Approximately 4,000 active computers during the regular school year, with much less over the summer. On average, more than 90% of on-campus students use ResNet.

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3. How much does it cost to use ResNet and what do I need to use it?

There is currently no cost assessed to a user for ResNet. However, in order to use ResNet, you will need a computer that meets our Connection Requirements.

The Department of Residence does offer 20' and 40' purple network cables to connect your computer to your room's data jack. Stop by your hall office or the DOR office in the Redeker Center to purchase a cable, which will be charged to your E-Bill.

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4. What operating systems are supported by ResNet?

To view ResNet's list of supported operating systems, click here. Linux or other alternating systems can be registered for ResNet access, but ResNet does not provide support for them.

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5. Why do I need to register my computer for ResNet access?

All computers must be registered in order to provide the most secure computing environment possible. In order to register, computers must pass a test certifying that they are up-to-date on patches, have our current anti-virus program installed, and will continue to automatically update both. Since viruses spread through networks, this minimizes the possible sources of infection to yourself and any other computers. In the case that you need assistance from ResNet staff, registering your computer also provides an update to the database that RCCs use to help diagnose problems you may be having.

To find information about registering your computer please check our Connection Guides.

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6. Why do University Apartment students need to manually register?

Because of the way apartments are laid out, University Apartments connections are hooked up differently to ResNet than those in the residence halls. They do not have access to the secure Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) that houses the automatic registration process, and so they must manually register.

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7. How can I contact an RCC for assistance?

You can call 273-RSNT (3-7768) to speak with an RCC. The RCC will attempt to troubleshoot your problem over the phone, or, if more help is required, schedule an RCC to visit your room to help fix your computer.

For more information, see our Contact Us link.

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8. I can't get my network card to work on ResNet.   Does ResNet provide support for this?

It depends. Many computers today come with integrated Ethernet cards. These will work fine on the ResNet network as long as they have the proper network drivers and are physically working. If there is a problem, it may be necessary to contact the computer manufacturer or purchase a different network card. ResNet will try to get the existing cards to work with the system, but there are some circumstances where the card is bad or not able to work in that specific computer. For better support and results we recommend purchasing brand-name cards such as 3com, Intel, NetGear, or LinkSys. Support for installing these in your computer can be provided by ResNet.

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9. Can I use my wireless access point or switch/router?

No. Wireless access points, switches, and routers are not allowed on ResNet. This is because of the way IP addresses (the way your machine is identified on the network) are assigned. Wireless can easily be used by other people you do not intend to be using your access point - allowing them to decrease your bandwith as well as possibly harm your computer. Switches and routers can allow unsecured computers onto the network; you will personally be held responsible for any illegal activities users may engage in while connected to ResNet through your switch/router. When you register your computer, you agree to ResNet Policy, which includes not using any of the above items. If you are caught using any of these, your ResNet Internet access may be revoked.

If you have a wireless card and would like to register for access on the campus network (Library, Union, etc.), be sure to register for ResNet access first as it will save you time when registering. For more information on registering for wireless, click here.

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10. I already bought an anti-virus program at home. Do I have to use UNI's anti-virus?

For a Windows computer, yes. Macintoshs are not required to run an antivirus program at this time, but are encouraged to do so. UNI has purchased an anti-virus agreement for use by all students. For more information visit UNI's anti-virus website found here. Students on ResNet should download the ResNet version of the anti-virus program.

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11. Can having a virus on my computer affect my Internet access? How can I remove a virus?

If your computer is virus infected, one of two things may happen to affect your access. The virus can interfere with your network connection, or your computer may need to be quarantined to prevent the spread of the virus on the network. If you know what type of virus you have, you may visit ResNet's Virus Threats page for more information. It may be necessary to reformat your computer to completely remove the virus(es). ResNet does not remove viruses (although information about virus removal can be provided). ResNet does, however, support reformating your computer. Instructions for reformating your computer can be found on our Solutions page.

You may also click here to get information on stopping pop-ups that may be caused by viruses or spyware.

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12. I have a virus on my computer and ResNet staff told me I need to reformat. Why do I need to do this?

If you have been told you need to reformat, your computer has probably contracted a trojan virus. These infections in themselves are not high-risk (they do not damage your computer or the network initially), but they are used to install malicious tools on your computer and access it remotely. Your computer will be used by another person for malicious intent - either for causing network damage, stealing your personal data (credit card information, passwords, etc.), or both. Computers infected with these trojan viruses may also launch denial of service attacks against either UNI's network or other sites, causing internet outages for user of those networks.

Unfortunately, there are generally many, many variants for this kind of virus. This means there is no quick fix/cure for removing both the variant your computer is infected with plus the various keyloggers/backdoors that are installed in addition to the initial infection.

This is why a computer with such a virus must be reformatted. There is no way to clean a machine and be completely sure all malicious components have been removed. ResNet requires reformats in these cases both for the safety of your data as well as for the for the safey of other computers on the network.

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13. I have access to ResNet, so why doesn't my e-mail/MyUNIverse/Memfis work?

There can be a number of reasons for this. E-mail, MyUNIverse, and Memfis are maintained by ITS User Services. The best source of help for this type of problem will be found by contacting the Computer Consulting Center at 3-5555. 

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14. What do I do if I'm having a problem with a lab computer?

Lab computers are also maintained by ITS User Services. If there is not a customer service assistant in the lab, you may contact the Computer Consulting Center at 3-5555.

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15. I am interested in becoming a RCC.   Where do I go to inquire about employment opportunities?

Job openings will be posted on the ResNet web page. Look for an e-mail or posters around campus (usually in the spring). Most positions are for fall and spring semesters.

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16. Why are Internet download speeds different at different times of the day?

See our Internet Usage page for more information.

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17. How do I register my video game console (Xbox, Gamecube, etc)?

Visit the Game Consoles page for information on how to register your Xbox or Gamecube on ResNet.

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Updated: February 4, 2008
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