WMU > OIT > Students > ResNet

ResNet Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can connect to ResNet?
2. How much does ResNet cost?
3. What do I need to be able to get ResNet?
4. How do I get connected?
5. Who can I contact for troubleshooting or questions?
6. Do I need an IP address?
7. Do I need to re-register if I move to another room or building?
8. Can I connect another system other than what I registered?
9. Can I connect my gaming device?
10. Do I have to use ResNet or can I get by with a wireless card?
11. What if I don't know how to install an Ethernet card?
12. What if I run an operating system such as Linux or Sun Solaris?
13. What is the limit to bandwidth usage for my ResNet connection?

1. Who can connect to ResNet?
Only those living in WMU residence halls, and WMU-owned apartments, may connect to ResNet.

2. How much does ResNet cost?
The cost is $80 per semester for Fall and Winter and $40 each for Summer I and Summer II. All systems being connected to ResNet must be registered. You may register your desktop, your laptop, and your game consoles.

3. What do I need to be able to get ResNet?

• A WMU Bronco NetID computer account.
• An Ethernet Network Interface card (NIC).
• An Ethernet cable (see below).
• A Web browser, such as Firefox, Internet Explorer or Netscape, etc., that is already installed on your computer.
• If you have an Apple computer, the instructions for connections vary by model. Please call the Help Desk for configuration.

4. How do I get connected?

• You must have an installed Ethernet card and a white, standard network cable.
• Hubs may be used. Routers and access points may not be used.
• Turn on your computer and run a Web browser. You will be automatically taken to the ResNet registration page where you register your device. If the Registration Page does not appear, please contact the Help Desk at 387-HELP (387-4357) for troubleshooting.

5. Who can I contact for troubleshooting or questions?

Help Desk and Mobile Help Desk

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.; Saturday, Closed; Sunday, noon - 10:00 p.m.
• Telephone: 387-HELP (387-4357)
• Username and password questions
• Internet access troubleshooting
• Software troubleshooting
• Internet setup

Technical Computing Services

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Telephone: 387-HELP, Option 2
• Provider of cables, etc.
• On-site troubleshooting
• Computer repair service
• Authorized service center for Apple and Dell computers
• Jack repair

6. Do I need an IP address?
Yes, but the IP address will be automatically assigned each time you connect, after you have registered your computer. No action is required on your part.

7. Do I need to re-register if I move to another room or building?
No. The only time you would need to re-register is if you purchase a new computer, or the semester/session changes. If you sell your old computer, be sure you de-register your old system and have the new owner register in their own name. If you do not, they may continue to use your registration and you will continue to be billed for the charges. Each system is automatically de-registered at the end of each semester/session. You must re-register when you return for the next semester/session.

8. Can I connect another system other than what I registered?
You may, but you will first have to de-register your original system and then register the new system or you will be billed for two connections. You may connect certain gaming devices needing network connections, however these will need to be registered to you.

9. Can I connect my gaming device?
Yes, you may connect gaming devices such as XBox,360, Nintendo DS, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and PSP. but because of WMU's network access program used in WMU residence halls, your Xbox will have to be manually added to the authorization file. Go here for further instructions on connecting a gaming device.

Please note, you may NOT use a router in your room, although you may use a hub.

10. Do I have to use ResNet or can I get by with a wireless card?
The wireless locations on campus are not intended to service residence hall rooms, although you may be able to use a wireless card in the public areas of your residence hall. If you want to use your computer from your room without using a modem, you must register it with ResNet.

11. What if I don't know how to install an Ethernet card?
Most computers sold today come with an Ethernet card already installed. If your's did not, you can contact the Help Desk, who may be able to walk you through it.

12. What if I run an operating system such as Linux or Sun Solaris?
We support Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems. Other operating systems, may be compatible although we do not provide service or support.

13. What is the limit to bandwidth usage for my ResNet connection?

There isn't a set limit, per se, however if your usage is excessive you will receive a notication letter from WMU. See Digital Millennium Copyright Act Violations and File Sharing Safety Precautions for more information.