Frequently Asked Questions

What is ResNet?

ResNet is a data network installed in all Student Housing facilities. ResNet provides dedicated high speed Internet and UC Davis network access to all Student Housing residents. This means you have 24 hour Internet access and fast download times. ResNet provides a data port for each of our student residents, so there's no waiting. Access requires a network ready computer.

How fast is ResNet?

The campus backbone to which ResNet connects is a wide area gigabit network. ResNet users connect directly to this campus network via 100baseT ResNet ports which are capable of 100Mbps. ResNet users share a 70Mbps Internet connection, so actual speed will depend upon network traffic within the residence halls.

Why is ResNet important?

ResNet benefits you by providing fast and reliable access to campus web services, course materials, and convenient contact with faculty and other students. Education has become increasingly reliant upon the Internet to provide a channel for teaching, sharing information, and building professional relationships. ResNet ensures that you have worry-free access to these opportunities from the comfort of your room. This access enhances your potential for academic success.

What does ResNet cost?

The cost of ResNet service is incorporated into Student Housing's published rates.

Can I store data files on ResNet?

ResNet provides network access only. Files must be stored on your personal computer, removable media, or appropriate campus servers. If you are a current student with a computer account, space is available in My Space, accessible through the Tools section of MyUCDavis. Visit the Student Computing Guide for more answers to questions about your UC Davis computer account.

What should I bring?

A network ready computer, a 14 foot cat5 10 base-T cable and any operating system, restoration CDs or drivers that came with your computer. Residents are responsible for configuring and maintaining computer compatibility for ResNet access and should come prepared. Read Preparing Before You Arrive for more information.

What computer do you recommend?

Please see UC Davis computer recommendations for students. Be sure your computer is network-ready and review Preparing Before You Arrive for more information on equipment and configuration requirements for ResNet.

What Network Interface Card (NIC) do you recommend?

We do not recommend specific brands of network interface cards because they are very common and reliable computer components. You may want to consult with your computer vendor for more information or have the vendor install your NIC for you. Read Wired Network Access for general information on equipment, registration and configuration requirements for ResNet.

When you move to campus, we recommend that you bring any installation software for both your operating system and your NIC. This is especially important if you plan to install a NIC in an existing system.

What if I don't have a network-compatible computer?

Network access is available to the general campus community through campus computer labs.

Can I use my Linux computer on ResNet?

Yes, providing you have it configured for dynamic host communication protocol (DHCP) and automatic IP addressing as required by the UC Davis acceptable use policy. ResNet support staff does not provide configuration assistance for Linux systems.

Can I have my data port moved?

Only residents of Solano Park may have data ports relocated. Be aware that Communications Resources charges a fee for activating, deactivating, and moving data ports. To change data port service, contact the Solano Park office with the data port number(s).

What software should I have and where should I buy it?

The campus bookstore offers a wide selection of products at special educational prices. Visit the Student Computing Guide for more information about software recommendations.

How do I use the campus wireless system?

For instructions on how to access the campus wireless system please visit the Campus Wireless Access website.

How do I secure my laptop or computer?

Physical security of computer equipment can be done with a cable and lock attached from the computer to the student’s desk.

Do I need a printer?

For convenience, a desktop printer is ideal, but printers are available in several locations in the residence halls.

Can I use AOL?

Students connected to ResNet do not need an Internet service provider like AOL for Internet use.

Can I set up a server or website?

Within the framework of the UC Davis Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), servers are allowed but static IP address assignments are not allowed and all students must use DHCP. Common violations of the Acceptable Use Policy involving servers include excessive bandwith use, using the network for commercial gain and distibuting copyright protected content. Residents are reminded of their rights, responsibilities, and the consequences of network violations.

Can I use a peer-to-peer program on ResNet?

Downloading from a site via a peer-to-peer is okay, but you risk unwittingly having your system used to serve copyrighted material to others on the peer-to-peer network. Whether this is your intention or not, the law will hold you responsible for copyright infringement. Examples of peer-to-peer software include Napster, KaZaA, Morpheus, Grokster, LimeWire, BearShare, Gnutella, AresWarez and BitTorrent.

When you run any peer-to-peer software on your computer, the deal is that you can use the software to ask for a particular file and the software will give you a list of some computers currently connected to the Internet which have that file. You pick one and the software goes to that computer, makes a copy and sends it to your computer — the other person has no idea this is going on because the software runs in the background. And here is where the copyright infringement takes place: the other person just made a copy for you. And since you're running the software, others are copying files from your system as well, putting you in violation of copyright laws. These files can be songs you purchased and placed on your system legally, but once your system serves it out to somebody else you've violated the law.

Remember, UC Davis cannot protect you and must respond to legal requests for information when copyright infringements are detected. UC Davis students have been sued for such infringements in the past, and notices of infringement are received by campus regularly. If you have specific questions about copyright infringement, contact dmca@ucdavis.edu.

HELP! I'm having problems accessing the Internet!

The residence halls are provided a specific bandwidth by campus for the use of all residents. There are a variety of reasons Internet connection may be compromised. Unusually heavy traffic, such as might be seen with large media downloads and gaming, is just one situation that can affect resources to the entire community. Users who are unable to get any Internet connection may have had their port shut down because of a threat to the network, such as a virus.

Residents experiencing network access problems, including with their computer's IP Address and network port NAM, should email ithelp@ucdavis.edu or visit the IT Express Help Desk for assistance.

Residents needing other computer assistance, such as help removing viruses, should check the campus IT Security website for current information about security threats, or email ithelp@ucdavis.edu or visit the IT Express Help Desk for assistance.