Frequently Asked Questions

Is there wireless network access available in the residence halls?

While there is not complete wireless coverage on campus, each residence hall has at least one wireless hotspot. The hotspots are located in the following areas:

• Blair-Shannon: Grand lounge, TV area in east wing, and dining center
• Freudenberger: Grand Lounge and Conference room
• Hammons: Main lobby, basement common area, and dining center
• Hutchens: Main lobby, basement common area, 8th floor common area, Conference room, and dining center
• Kentwood: Main lobby, study lounge, and dining center
• Scholars: Entire building
• Sunvilla: 2nd floor mezzanine
• Wells: Grand Lounge
• Woods: Main lobby and 10th floor lounge

How do I setup free wireless access on my computer?

You will need an 802.11b or 802.11g wireless card. (These are typically found in all modern laptops and some desktops.) For more information on the wireless network, please visit our wireless access page.

How do I get connected to the residence hall network?

You will need an Ethernet card (standard on all computers in the last five years) and a Category 5 Ethernet cable. Both of these can be purchased at the bookstore. The Ethernet cable will plug into your card and then into the orange jack located on the wall in your room.

Why do I have to register my computer?

To ensure a point of contact should problems arise with a computer or network port, we ask that all devices (including game consoles) be registered before access to the internet is granted. Your computer must be registered at the Registration website before complete access to the internet is granted.

What happens if I change rooms or halls after registering my computer?

Registration ties your computer to a specific jack in your room. Once registered your computer will only work in the registered jack and the jack will only work with your computer. Therefore, before moving, you will need to unregister your computer (in your old room) by going to the "edit port" function and select "remove port." After moving, you will need to register your computer (in your new room) as usual. Both functions can be achieved from the Registration website.

What is a bandwidth quota system?

The bandwidth quota system is a preset limit (in bytes) for downloads and uploads over the internet (but not local content). The limit is more than conducive for normal internet usage and is meant to keep the network functioning at its highest potential throughout the school year. The bandwidth quota operates on a rolling seven day system, meaning that traffic conducted seven days ago drops off at midnight each night. The cap is 6 gigabytes combined upload and download per each 7 day period.

What happens if I exceed my bandwidth limit for the week?

If you exceed your limit, you will still be able to access the Internet via the registered Ethernet port in your room, but your bandwidth will be reduced to a speed similar to dial-up. Additionally, you will be unable to connect to the wireless network while in penalty. Your connection will remain in this state until enough of your previous traffic drops off to bring your total usage below the limit. Be aware that continued excessive traffic can potentially be enough to keep you in penalty.

Does Missouri State require antivirus software on my computer?

Yes. Automatically updated anti-virus software is required for all computers connected to the residence hall network. Symantec Anti-Virus can be obtained for free from here.

Why would I lose my network connection? How do I get it back?

If your use of network resources negatively impacts others, Networking Services may have your network port shut off without prior warning. This may happen for a number of reasons including: virus activity, improperly configured system or program, unusual or disruptive network behavior, or an outside source filing a complaint against your computer. A complaint could have been filed for reasons that include, but are not limited to, copyright infringement with Peer-to-Peer file sharing, port-scanning, and e-mail viruses (for more information regarding copyright complaints, please see our copyright page for more information). If you lose your connection, please contact ResNET at x66100 so a technician can guide you through the necessary steps to be restored to the network. Also, if you have lost the ability to connect to the wireless network, you may want to check http://resreg.missouristate.edu to see if you've exceeded your bandwidth quota.

What kind of support does ResNET provide?

ResNET provides assistance with a wide array of technology issues including virus and spyware removal, product installation, hardware troubleshooting/installation, and software support to all residence hall students free of charge. If you are experiencing difficulty with your computer, please give ResNET a call at x66100.

How can I use my residence hall's front desk laser printer from my room?

For information on connecting to the residence hall printers, please consult our connecting to the front desk printer page.

What is the cost to print to the front desk printers?

Residence hall students can print for free, but there is limit of 1000 pages per semester and a cap of 25 pages per print job. More information about the print quota can be found on the print quota page of this site.

How do I keep my computer virus free and running smoothly?

1. Enable or install a firewall
2. Run updated Anti-Virus software
3. Patch with Windows Updates
4. Run anti-spyware software
5. Use secure passwords
6. Do not open suspicious emails
7. Do not open links in IM programs
8. Disable or disallow file-sharing

Visit out safe computing page for more tips to keep your computer smoothly and safe.