Network Uprgrades
While you were off on your semester break, we’ve been working to make changes to the VCU Residential Network. We think you’ll like the changes! Here’s a rundown on what they are and what you need to do to take advantage of the changes while keeping your computer safe.
Please note that these represent a radically different approach to managing our network, and we may need to tweak some of the settings once you start using it. We may need to turn some things off to fix them occasionally and we’ll try to warn you when that happens.
If you find that something is not working as you expect, please let us know. We don’t know you are having problems until you tell us. To report a problem, fill out a ticket at www.resnet.vcu.edu.
Bandwidth has been doubled to 90Mb
Bandwidth is like the number of lanes on a highway. More lanes means more cars can travel at the same time. And if you’ve ever driven in Northern Virginia, you know that when there are too many cars for the number of lanes, EVERYTHING slows down. We’ve doubled the number of lanes on the residence hall internet highway so more network traffic can travel on them.
Remember that you’re still sharing this highway with your fellow students. Don’t drive in 2 lanes at the same time.
We’re using Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation
This is the way residential networks (like cable or DSL service) work. Generally you should have about 2 Mb for downloads and 1 Mb for upload. Just like in residential neighborhood networks, the total bandwidth for the dorms is shared, so with heavy usage, you may not get this much. But, now you will get a guaranteed minimum bandwidth (approximately 20 Kb) so you should not be completely stymied from using the network.
Remember that this doesn’t mean you can run a server, wireless hub, or business on your residence hall computer. All of these activities are not allowed and will result in disciplinary action. Again, remember your kindergarten
lessons: share and play nice.
We’re upgrading our PacketShaper software
The PacketShaper controls bandwidth utilization and online performance by preventing network congestion. The previous version didn’t handle IM programs correctly and sometimes made them a low priority on our network. The new version deals with AIM and other IM programs differently and makes them a higher priority on the network. This should make AIM easier to use and more reliable for everyone in the dorms.
Remember that IM attachments can cause serious problems. Mass mail worms use IM to distribute themselves to everyone on a buddy list. Easy, anonymous identities are popular with online scammers and identify thieves. Most free IM software has minimal security features. For tips on how to use IM more securely, see www.symantec.com/home_homeoffice/library/im_risks.html.
We’re opening up the ports for gaming
Do you really need to ask that question?
Play nice. Don’t hog the network. And remember that you still have to do your homework. Your mom is not here to remind you.
Peer to Peer will continue to be available
File sharing is limited to your bandwidth limits. But you can LEGALLY download music from LEGAL services like iTunes, Napster and eMusic.
We know you know because we’ve told you so many times (c’mon, repeat after me...): sharing copyrighted materials (ie, songs, movies & software) without the permission of the copyright holder is illegal. Just because you CAN do it, doesn’t mean you should. We allow it because there are legitimate and legal reasons why you may need to share files. But if you share copyrighted files, you will have your Internet connection terminated, and if you do it even after we slap your wrist, you will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Don’t do it. Really. Just don’t. It’s not worth the risk, because you could go to jail (really!).
Today's Top 10 List
10. Create and use a strong password.
9. Don’t open spam.
8. Allow automatic updates for Windows.
7. Install and use a personal firewall.
6. Never give your password to anyone; never write it down.
5. Don’t open attachments in e-mail or IMs unless you’re SURE they’re legitimate.
4. Regularly back up your data.
3. Install and run VCU’s free antivirus program.
2. Visit VCU’s Computer Security page regularly for new ways to stay safe.
And, the number one way to stay safe
1. Don’t post any information on public web sites like FaceBook, MySpace or LiveJournal that you wouldn’t feel comfortable seeing on a billboard.
Need More Information?
The friendly folks at the Help Desk are always around to help you with technology questions. Please call them at (804) 828-2227 or e-mail help@vcu.edu.
