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ResNet FAQs

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What is ResNet?

NYU ResNet (short for Residential Networking) provides in-room Ethernet connections to NYUHome, email, and Internet services from most NYU residence halls. It is an alternative to using a modem, keeping your phone line free. To begin using ResNet, you need to meet certain hardware and software requirements and then follow the configuration instructions available in the ITS Guide to Telephone Services & ResNet (visit the ITS Publications website to download a copy).

What do I need in order to use ResNet, and where is it available?

The most current list of hardware and software that you will need to use ResNet, along with a complete list of the NYU residence halls that offer this service, is available on the NYU ResNet website.

What does ResNet cost?

ResNet service is available without additional cost to students in an NYU degree program who live in a ResNet-enabled residence hall. You may, however, incur one-time costs equipping your computer to use these services (e.g., the cost of purchasing your computer, Ethernet card, cable, etc...). Any fees associated with ITS services are paid by Housing. Students do not pay any fee specifically to ITS.

How can I access the NYU-NET registration site from my room using Ethernet if I haven't registered yet?

An unregistered Ethernet connection is limited, not totally disabled. It can access the ITS Start Page and the NYU-NET Computer Registration System:

  • http://start.nyu.edu
  • http://computer.registration.nyu.edu

The registration site lets you register for full connectivity to NYU-NET and the Internet. Once you are connected, you can access the ITS-Licensed Software page, located at http://software.nyu.edu to download security software such as Symantec AntiVirus and Ad-Aware, the Eudora email client, Fetch and WinSCP for file transfer, web browsers, and more.

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I cannot access the NYU-NET Computer Registration page at all. What can I check before calling the ITS Client Services Center at 1-212-998-3333?

  1. Verify that you've plugged into your ResNet data jack and NOT the telephone jack (these often look very similar). The data jack is generally the one on the bottom - colored black, or the one labeled "DATA". Be sure that you are using an Ethernet cable and not a telephone cord. Ethernet cables have RJ-45 connectors that have 8 gold contacts, as opposed to 4 contacts on an RJ-11 telephone connector.
  2. If at all possible, try using a second Ethernet cable to make sure that your cable is working (see if a neighbor with a working connection will loan you his/hers in order to check if your cable is defective).
  3. Laptop computers with fragile PCMCIA card connectors (sometimes called "dongles") often cause problems because the connector that plugs into the PCMCIA card is cracked or broken. Look to see that the laptop connectors are in good condition.
  4. Verify your computer's Ethernet card configuration. For assistance with installation of your Ethernet card, please consult the Ethernet card manufacturer's instructions.
  5. Double check the TCP/IP configuration instructions (available in the ITS Guide to Telephone Services & ResNet that you receive upon move-in) to make sure they are correct.
  6. Restart your computer if you haven't done it since plugging into the data jack or making changes to your configuration.
  7. If your web browser is stuck trying to access a web page (such as the default web page it always loads when first starting up), click the "Stop" button. It will not be able to access any pages other than the registration page until after you've registered. Type http://computer.registration.nyu.edu in the "Location" field and press return.

My computer appears to be trying to dial my modem when I launch a web browser. What should I do?

Make sure you've followed the instructions for your Operating System's TCP/IP configuration (available in the ITS Guide to Telephone Services & ResNet that you receive upon move-in). If the problem persists and you are using a Windows computer, go to the Control Panel (click the "Start" button > Settings > Control Panel). Double click "Internet Options". Select the "Connections" tab. Click to select the button next to "Never dial a connection".

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I live in the Third Avenue North residence hall. How can my roommate and I connect to ResNet simultaneously?

If you are a Third North resident and have a roommate, you will need to obtain a switchlet to multiply the ResNet connection in your room. Please go to the Third North front desk to borrow one. Only one switchlet is needed per room. Please do not attempt to acquire more than one. One switchlet will allow a single data jack to drive two connections. Switchlets can only be used in Third Avenue North residence hall. They will NOT work in any other residence hall. All switchlets must be returned at the end of the Spring semester, or if your NYU Housing assignment changes at any time during the academic year.

Summer residents only: All switchlets must be returned prior to the end of your Summer Housing assignment.

Can I run a router/wireless connection on ResNet?

No, you may not. In Third North, however, an ITS-provided switchlet may be used to share the ResNet connection between roommates. These are available at the Third North front desk.

Can I get NYURoam wireless service in my room?

NYURoam wireless service is not currently available in resident's rooms, but it is available at an ever-increasing number of locations around campus, including public areas in some residence halls. See www.nyu.edu/its/wireless/locations/ for a complete list of NYURoam access locations.

Can I register more than one computer for ResNet?

Yes. You may only register up to two computers for use on ResNet. If you register two computers and then get a new computer during the year, you will need to de-register one of your previous registrations before registering the new computer for ResNet.

Why is it taking so long for my computer to start (boot) up now that I am connected?

If your computer is trying to connect via IPX, it may significantly affect start up time. Disable IPX and reboot.

This delay may also be due to spyware, adware, or computer viruses. Install Ad-Aware and Symantec AntiVirus from the ITS-Licensed Software page, and the latest version of Spybot from Download.com, free of charge, to scan for spyware and adware. Be sure to download the latest definitions for all three programs once you have a live Internet connection. Please also remember to perform Windows Updates and anti-virus/anti-spyware scans on a weekly basis, and follow all of the instructions about computer and network security on the ITS Computer Security site.

If the problem persists after you take these steps, call the ITS Client Services Center at 1-212-998-3333.

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Should I buy a 100mbps Ethernet card?

Your ResNet connection will be at 10mbps (10 million bits per second) for the duration of your NYU career. If you have personal reasons to get the faster card, go ahead. However, you will never be able to utilize its increased bandwidth capability on ResNet. Most 100mbps cards also support 10mbps (they're usually designated 10/100mbps).

How do I install my Ethernet card?

You should consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the card.

Is there a firewall on ResNet? Does this mean that I can not run a web server, or access hosts outside NYU, etc.? Will I need to log into a proxy server?

There is a firewall between ResNet and the rest of NYU-NET. This should not prevent any ResNet user from running a standard web server, and it should not have any impact on everyday web browsing and other common Internet services.

Will I be able to access other network services on campus from ResNet?

ResNet's router only passes TCP/IP packets. This means that Novell servers (like the ones in the ITS computer labs), Appleshare servers, and most peer-to-peer environments, like Lantastic, NetBEUI, and Appletalk will not pass from NYU-NET to ResNet, or vice-versa. In other words, if you set up your computer for file sharing on ResNet, you'll see it all over ResNet, but not in the labs or anywhere else on NYU-NET. Conversely, you will not see lab servers, or other PC servers on ResNet.

If I register, will I be held to the Responsibilities of all NYU Computer and Network Users and ResNet Accounts—Specific Policies and Information, even if I didn't actually read them?

Yes. Registering requires that you accept an agreement stating that you read those two documents (available at www.nyu.edu/its/policies/resnet/) and agree to abide by their provisions. If you have violated the terms of those agreements you may lose your NYUHome account and your ResNet connection. An NYU ResNet connection is a privilege, not a right.

Are there printers on ResNet?

No. If you don't own a printer, you can save your work on storage media (e.g., a CD or external drive) and then take it to an ITS computer lab and print it there.

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Is there censorship on ResNet?

No. You must abide by the Responsibilities of all NYU Computer and Network Users and ResNet Accounts—Specific Policies and Information. NYU security staff monitor ResNet for violations. However, within these restrictions you have the freedom to view what you want and say what you want. Remember that the Internet is a public place, though, and that your actions can have ramifications.

Is peer-to-peer file sharing allowed on ResNet?

No, not if you've configured your computer to act as a file server. Aside from the possibility of serious consequences due to copyright infringement, this type of file sharing has a negative impact on the performance of NYU-NET. ResNet policy states: "You are not to run any services (i.e., ftp services, listservers, publish MP3s using Napster, publish files via generic file services, etc.) via this residence hall connection except http servers." For more information, please read the peer-to-peer FAQs available at www.nyu.edu/its/p2p.

What should I do if my data jack is damaged?

If the data jack in your room is physically damaged (e.g., loose or otherwise visibly damaged), contact ITS at 1-212-998-3333.

My computer does not work, what should I do?

In the instance that your computer is not working properly please contact a computer repair center, such as the computer's manufacturer, or the NYU Computer Store.

I can't find the data jack in my room, where is it?

All dorms, with the exception of Third North, have one data jack per person. In Third North, there is one jack per bedroom. Search for the jack behind any furniture that is against the walls, including beds, desks, wardrobes, etc.

How do I know what version of Windows I am running?

Click Start --> Run. Type "winver" and press [enter].

My computer was stolen, what should I do?

In the event that your computer is stolen, you should immediately file a report with NYU Public Safety (212-998-1300, or x81300) and, if you wish, with the appropriate precinct of the New York Police Department.

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What is the ResNet Group's phone number?

You should contact the ITS Client Services Center at 1-212-998-3333 if you need assistance with ResNet. If the CSC is unable to resolve your problem, your problem will be recorded in a trouble ticket and you will be contacted by somebody in the ResNet Services Group within approximately 24-72 hours, depending on the number of active clients that require attention at the time.

Where is ResNet located?

ResNet is not located anywhere in particular. It is a network that exists in many of NYU's residence halls, and it can be accessed according to the guidelines laid out in the ITS Guide to Telephone Services & ResNet distributed to students when they first arrive at their residence hall.

If my computer is broken, can someone come to my room and fix it?

Not necessarily. The ResNet Services Group determines whether or not you can be scheduled for an appointment.

Can I get help with a virus/spyware issue?

The ResNet Services Group can only troubleshoot connectivity issues that may be caused by viruses or spyware. All other computer problems not related specifically to ResNet connectivity should be directed to a computer repair center, such as the NYU Computer Store.

Can I get a laptop appointment for a virus issue?

Not necessarily. The ResNet Services Group will determine whether or not you will be scheduled for a laptop or any other appointment.

Can I borrow the Windows Installation CD?

No. NYU does not own a site license for distribution of any version of Windows. Computers distributed with Windows should come with either a Windows installation CD or a Windows installation program on the hard drive.

Can I run a game server?

No, residents are not allowed to run game servers over the ResNet network.

Can I use the Internet to make telephone calls?

Internet phone calls are allowed, but may not work due to firewall restrictions.

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What if my Ethernet cable cannot reach the jack?

Extra long cables can be purchased at computer or office supply stores such as the NYU Computer Store.

Is it possible to register guests online?

No, guests must be signed in at the front desk of NYU Residence Halls.

Does ResNet actively support Windows 95/98/ME?

No, ResNet does not support these operating systems.

If I live in a law school dorm (such as D'Agostino or Mercer St.), how can I get ResNet support?

The Law School has their own ResNet group. Law School dorm residents should contact Law ResNet at 212-998-6131 (x86131).

How long will it take to receive assistance from the ResNet Group?

If your case is presented to ResNet during a busy time of the year, there may be a wait time of up to 72 hours before you receive a response from them. If you do not hear from the ResNet Group within approximately 72 hours of your case being presented, please contact the Client Services Center at 212-998-3333 (x83333) to seek assistance.

My computer is infected, but my most recent virus scan says that no viruses were found...now what?

If no viruses were found in the most recent scan, have ANY of your previous scans detected any infected files? If any scan was completed since your first notification of having a virus and the scan found one or more viruses, your system is acceptable to use. ResNet Security will be notified and your connection will be reactivated within 24 hours.

If there are no scans that found infected files since the first notification, a ResNet representative will contact you within 48 hours. If you encounter any further problems, call Client Services again and refer to your Remedy ticket number.

Where can I find out more about ResNet?

Additional information about ResNet is available on the ResNet website. You can also get help with ResNet by contacting the ITS Client Services Center at 1-212-998-3333 or its.clientservices@nyu.edu.

Page last reviewed: August 31, 2009