Welcome to the Muskingum College ResNet Program!

2008-2009 Registration Process

In order to connect your computer to the Residential Network, students should simply connect their computers to a network switch or data port in the room, and then open a web browser (such as Internet Explorer, Netscape, or Firefox). At that point, the registration process will begin automatically.

If you would like to register a video game console, please see the instructions below.

ResNet Frequently Asked Questions

What is ResNet?

ResNet is the College's Residential Network, and it is what all student computers use in order to access the campus network and Internet from the residence locations. ResNet is a service provided as a convenience to accommodate the increasing technological needs of students.

The network is shared by all students on campus and has a maximum capacity of 10MB of traffic per room for on campus resources (local resources such as the Muskingum Web Site, Blackboard, MuskieLink, etc) and 10MB of traffic for off campus resources (the Internet). Because it is a shared resource, it is possible for individuals to monopolize traffic, which slows the service down for others. CNS regulates this to a limited degree to make sure that traffic is flowing more evenly for everyone, although, that does not guarantee that service will not interrupted by problem users from time to time due to abusive use.

What is an RCA or RLA, and what do they do?

RCAs are Residential Computing Assistants. They are students employed by CNS to assist students in connecting their computers to ResNet. This service includes assistance with virus and spyware concerns that affect network connections.

RLAs are Residential Lab Assistants.  They are students employed by CNS to maintain and supervise the Residence Hall computer labs. During scheduled lab hours, RLAs and RCAs also provide limited training for using lab software and equipment.

RCA's do *NOT* provide software or hardware support on student computers, because of A) warranty reasons... working on hardware can void warranties. B) technical reasons... RCAs can't possibly learn everything there is to know about every piece of hardware and software ever made. For these types of services, students should contact the company who makes the hardware or software in question. *Note:* Sometimes an RCA or RLA will volunteer their time to assist you if they
can, but they are not obligated to do so, nor are they obligated to do so for free. If the issue is not virus/spyware or network related (such as hard drive crash or personal printer problems), they are permitted to charge for their efforts.

*PLEASE!* Remember that the RCAs and RLAs are students, just like you! They have classes, homework, exams, and believe it or not, lives that include extra-curricular activities. Please be patient, respectful, and courteous when requesting scheduled assistance! At the same time, please understand that they do have a responsibility to assist with lab, network, virus, and spyware needs-- if an RCA or RLA does not provide assistance in a timely manner, please contact CNS for assistance.

What is Computer Registration, and is it required?

You do NOT have to register your computer to have it on campus, however, everyone MUST register their computers in order to connect to ResNet... there are no exceptions to this policy. Registration is the process by which CNS and RCA's verify that your computer is properly updated to work with our network services and protected from security concerns such as viruses and spyware. CNS began this process for the 2004-2005 Academic School Year due to the significant increase in security threats experienced the previous school years.

The registration process includes verification that an anti-virus package such as Norton Antivirus are installed, and it also verifies that Windows Updates are installed to protect your computer from security threats. While not required, as you setup your computer you should consider installing anti-spyware software such as Ad-Aware, Windows Defender, or SpyBot Search and Destroy.

What are the Minimum System Requirements for Computer Registration?

The minimum requirement for registration is a computer that is sufficiently capable of running the Microsoft Windows XP operating system. Computers running Linux or Mac OS X will also be accepted for registration, however, they will NOT be supported by CNS for troubleshooting. You must contact Apple or the appropriate system vendor for support.

Systems still running Windows 98 Second Edition or Windows ME will no longer be accepted by any student. All new students since the release of XP received documentation at registration (and/or Muskie Preview) that indicates appropriate system requirements, therefore, CNS does expect that current students are using current technology.

These requirements are in place to ensure that student computers are protected from the latest computer security threats. Windows 95, 98 and Windows ME will NOT be accepted at all due to the lack of update availability and support from Microsoft.

I already have Antivirus software and/or a Firewall... can I use this?

In most cases, yes (see this page for more information)! CNS does require that an approved product be active and functional at all times, and it must not be disabled or crippled due to expiration or outdated versions. CNS only recommends antivirus services and does not recommend or support ANY of the firewall or "internet security" products.

Examples of known conflicts include both the Norton and McAfee Firewall (Internet Security) software. Both companies' firewall software conflicts with services provided by Muskingum College, including network connectivity, WebMail, BlackBoard, and Muskie Link. The products go overboard and restrict access too much for those services to work. For this reason, ResNet staff may uninstall these products during registration and will not provide support if you choose to reinstall them.

Additionally, it should be noted that some antivirus and firewall programs will not work properly with other products of the same type. For example, Symantec's Norton Antivirus and Corporate Edition versions conflict with the presence of other virus protection products.

If you arrive on campus with outdated antivirus protection or if you arrive with no protection at all, you will be required to install a CNS approved virus protection product before you can connect.

What about Routers and Wireless Access?

CNS does not currently provide wireless access to students in the residence halls. CNS offers limited wireless access on the Quad in the immediate vicinity of the Student Faculty Center (TOC/BOC, indoor and outdoor). There is also limited connectivity in the vicinity of the softball fields. These connections, however, are not supported by CNS beyond the basic registration process. In other words, we'll make sure it's possible for you to connect, but we can't guarantee the quality of the service at this time.

Routers and Access Points, on the other hand, are strictly forbidden on the network, because they conflict with the services provided and cause service interruption for everyone. Students who attempt to use these devices will be disconnected from the network until the devices are removed... no exceptions!

What about Video Game Consoles?

Many modern video game consoles provide ethernet based network connectivity for multi-player gaming. Your console must be registered to allow you to use these services at Muskingum. Registration is a simple process and is accomplished by going to the Manual Registration form.

You will need your username and password, as well as the MAC address for your game console. Information on how to find the MAC address can be found at the manufacturer’s web site. Additionally, your console must be on and connected to the network. Please be advised, priority is given to academic network traffic over entertainment traffic, and therefore CNS does not guarantee the quality of these gaming services.

What do we do to connect multiple computers and consoles to the network when only one data port is available in our room?

Network switches and CAT-5 network data cables are sold in the bookstore at a price that is usually lower than other vendors. However, in the event that they are out of stock, such equipment can be purchased at Wal-Mart, Staples, and Radio Shack for reasonable rates.