Setting Up Your Computer

PURCHASE AN ETHERNET CABLE. Other than your computer, the only additional equipment you need to connect to ResNet is an Ethernet cable. Ethernet cables, also called CAT-5 cables, are not the same as the cables you use to connect your phone, although at first glance you might think they are the same.
LOCATE THE ETHERNET PORT ON YOUR COMPUTER. Once you have the correct cable, you need to locate the correct port on your computer. The Ethernet port is wider than the phone modem port.
PLUG ONE END OF YOUR ETHERNET CABLE INTO YOUR ETHERNET PORT.
LOCATE YOUR RESNET JACK. This is a jack in the wall that looks a lot like your phone jack, but again, is bigger than your phone jack. Your phone cable will not fit in your ResNet jack! Plug the other end of yor Ethernet cable into your ResNet jack.
Note that the Ethernet cable has a larger head than the telephone cable.

If you do not have the correct cable, you can get one from either the on-campus bookstore or a local office supply store. (Check with the main desk at your residence hall for directions to any of the local office supply stores.)
CONFIGURE YOUR COMPUTER. You can use Windows 2000 or higher or Mac OS X to connect to ResNet. Follow the directions in the next section that pertain to your operating system.

Take a look at this General FAQ for answers to other questions.

If you need further assistance, please call 6-5555 on campus or (205) 996-5555 off campus.