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Frequently Asked Questions

ResNet has put together these questions and answers to assist you. If these FAQ's don't assist you to the fullest degree, please feel free to fill out a trouble ticket or contact us
Internet
Cable TV
Telephone
Internet
Getting Started
Q:  Special Notes for residents of the Scholarship Halls.
A:  All of the Scholarship Halls except for Margaret Amini require a special networking cable called a KUPDS cable, instead of a standard ethernet cable. These cables are made specifically for use on certain sections of the KU network, and are only available from ResNet. Contact ResNet (812-0000) for more information!

Q:  Special Notes for Stouffer Place Residents
A:  Stouffer Place residents can get high-speed internet with a DSL connection. The DSL connection must be installed by ResNet staff. Contact ResNet (812-0000) to setup a time to have DSL installed.

Q:  How do I sign up for internet access?
A:  You need to register your computer with ResNet. This process is done from your computer, via your web browser. If you need assistance, ResNet RCCs will be located in most halls during move-in weekend. ResNet can also be reached at 812-0000, or at the NTS office in the basement of McCollum Hall.


Q:  How much does ResNet charge for internet service?
A:  ResNet charges per computer by MAC address. Every Residence Hall, Scholarship Hall, and Apartment will now have the ability to allow each student to connect directly to the network (or through Hub technology). (Click here for rates)

Q:  How can I register online if I don't have access to the internet yet?
A:  Once your computer is configured to obtain an IP address through DHCP and connected to your room's network port, you will be able to access the ResNet homepage. Until you are registered, you will not be able to access any other web sites or internet services.

Q:  I have 2 computers. Do I have to register and pay for both?
A:  Yes, you will need to register all of the computers that you wish to use with your ResNet connection, even if you will only be using one at a time.

Q:  I have registered before, but now I have a new computer (or network card). What should I do?
A:  To update your registration for a new computer (or network card), please use the RINGS Registration System. You will need to register your new computer (or re-register your computer with the new network card) the same as you have done before. During the registration process, you will be given the opportunity to transfer your old registration to your new computer so that you are not charged for a new connection.

Q:  Will I need a cable, hub, etc?
A:  You will need an ethernet cable. (Scholarship Hall residents, please see the note at the top of this section). In Templin, Lewis, Hashinger, Ellsworth, McCollum, Oliver, Reiger, and Margaret Amini, there is a port for each person, so a hub/switch is not necessary. For GSP/Corbin and all other scholarship halls, there is only one port per room. If you have roommates who also would like internet access, you will need a hub/switch so that each of you can connect the ResNet network. A hub or switch can be purchased in stores with computer accessories or through ResNet.

Q:  Can I use an XBox or Playstation2 with my ResNet connection?
A:  Yes, Login using the fields in the upper left-hand corner of this page, and choose the Game Console Registration Button.

Other Ways ResNet Can Help
Q:  What kind of support does ResNet offer?
A:  Student Residential Communications Consultants (RCCs) will be available for installing ethernet cards, providing network support, and for answering any of your questions regarding your connection to KU systems and the internet. RCCs can also help with virus and spyware issues. There is NO CHARGE for these services!

Q:  What items are available for purchase from ResNet?
A:  You can purchase ethernet cables and KUPDS cables from ResNet in addition to other networking equipment. Check the ResNet Online Store, or contact ResNet at 812-0000 for more information.

Technical Questions
Q:  Can I use a router or NAT device with my ResNet connection?
A:  NO! The use of a router and/or network address translation (NAT) device is in violation of the Responsible User Agreement set forth by ResNet.

Q:  Can I use a wireless acess point with my ResNet connection?
A:  NO! A wireless acess point functions as a router, and is therefore a violation of the Responsible User Agreement set forth by ResNet.

Q:  Can I use a firewall with my ResNet connection?
A:  YES! ResNet strongly encourages the use of a personal firewall to protect your computer. If you use Windows XP, the RINGS registration process automatically enables the firewall built into your operating system, so there is nothing more that you need to do. Other versions of Windows do not include a firewall, so you will have to obtain one separately. There are several free firewalls available online that will do the job well, so there is no need to pay a lot of money for one. Mac OSX users can also use the firewall that is built-in to the operating system.

Q:  How is ResNet's internet connection different from a dialup connection?
A:  Your ResNet connection is an "always-on" broadband connection that operates at a much higher speed than dialup.

Q:  How do I get my IP address, subnet mask, gateway and DNS information?
A:  ResNet uses a dynamic IP distribution system (DHCP) that will automatically configure all of these parameters for you after you register your computer. Your computer needs to be configured to use DHCP. Most computers are already setup this way when you buy them.

Q:  Since ResNet uses DHCP, will my IP address change often?
A:  While we cannot guarantee that your IP address will never change, if you use your ResNet connection at least once a week, it is unlikely that your IP address will change during the semester.

Q:  Can I still get a static IP address if I want/need one?
A:  ResNet will provide static IP addresses for academic related reasons. If you have a specific academic need that requires a static IP address, then contact the ResNet help line at 812-0000 to setup an appointment to discuss your situation.

What About Sophos?
Q:  Why do I have to use Sophos Anti-Virus?
A:  The Security Office requires that all computers attached to the KU network run anti-virus software. To help meet this requirement, the University acquired a license to allow all faculty, staff, and students to use Sophos Anti-Virus on their computers free of charge.

ResNet encourages students to use Sophos for several reasons:

  • Free Support. ResNet RCCs are experienced in dealing with Sophos, and many of us use it on our home computers. (Yes, really.) If your connection is deactivated for virus activity while Sophos is installed and running, you won't be held responsible. Make an appointment with ResNet, and we'll take care of the virus and get you back on-line for free. (Conversely, being deactivated while you're running Norton, McAfee, or some other anti-virus program will cost you a $45 reactivation fee.)
  • You don't have to worry about whether your anti-virus software is up-to-date. KU maintains a contract with Sophos to obtain virus updates on a regular basis. When KU gets these updates, so do you. By using Sophos, you do not have to worry about renewing subscriptions to ensure your anti-virus software will protect you from the latest threats

Q:  Can I use Norton/McAfee instead?
A:  The short answer is yes. However, for registration purposes, you must have completed a virus-free scan with Sophos, and Sophos will not work correctly if it is installed on top of another anti-virus program. To complete your registration, you will have to be running Sophos and nothing else. What you do after you register is up to you. Be aware that if you are deactivated for virus activity while you are not using Sophos, you WILL BE charged a $45 reactivation fee to restore your internet connection.

Q:  Why does my computer seem slow after installing Sophos?
A:  If your computer experienced a major slowdown following the installation of Sophos, it is likely that you have more than one anti-virus program installed. If Sophos is installed on a computer where Norton Anti-Virus (or another anti-virus program) is already in place, the computer could slow down significantly and possibly crash. Make sure you remove any other anti-virus programs before you install Sophos. If you have already installed Sophos on top of another anti-virus program, you will need to remove both programs and then re-install Sophos. Call ResNet (812-0000) if you need assistance.

Cable TV
Stouffer Place Residents
Q:  How do I sign up for cable TV service?
A:  Visit the ResNet Homepage and login using your KU Online ID. Once you log in, scroll down to the Cable Services section. Enter a date you would like the service activated, and click Request Service. If we need to enter your apartment to setup your service, a ResNet RCC will contact you to setup an appointment.

Q:  How much does cable TV service cost?
A:  Current rates are $15.00/month.

Q:  How do I cancel my cable TV service?
A:  Visit the ResNet Homepage and login using your KU Online ID. Once you log in, scroll down to the Cable Services section. Enter a date you would like the service deactivated, and click Deactivate Service. If we need to enter your apartment to disconnect your service, a ResNet RCC will contact you to setup an appointment.

Q:  Can I get premium channels (HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, etc.)?
A:  Not at this time.

Q:  How do I report problems with cable TV?
A:  By submitting an Online Help Request or by calling ResNet at 812-0000.

Non-Stouffer Place Residents
Q:  Can I get premium channels (HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, etc.)?
A:  Not at this time.

Q:  How do I report problems with cable TV?
A:  By submitting an Online Help Request or by calling ResNet at 812-0000.

Telephone
Stouffer Place Residents
Q:  What services are available at Stouffer Place?
A:  You can sign up for telephone service with caller ID. (Click here for rates)

Q:  What long distance service providers can I use?
A:  ResNet does not offer long distance service. You must use a personal calling card to make long distance calls.

Non-Stouffer Place Residents
Q:  What long distance service providers can I use?
A:  ResNet does not offer long distance service. You must use a personal calling card to make long distance calls.

Q:  How much does phone service cost?
A:  Local phone service is already included in the housing fee.