New Student URHnet Guide

• Network Adapter- Most computers sold later than 2002 come with network cards. In order to get URHnet in your room you cannot use a modem (i.e. dialup) or a wireless card, you must use an Ethernet card. Wireless is available in the common areas of the residence halls and in most libraries and buildings on campus, so you may choose to buy a wireless card for your computer.
• Virus Scanner- download free from CITES WebStore. It is important to install the virus scanner on your computer BEFORE coming to school to ensure you do not get infected with a virus and then quarantined.
• Latest OS updates- download free from Microsoft or Apple. This is particularly important for Windows users, as Windows 2000 should be updated to Service Pack 4 and Windows XP should be updated to Service Pack 2. If you were never on the internet at home, your computer will not have any of these critical updates, so you will need to install them immediately after installing a virus scanner.
• User Password- In order to prevent your computer from attacks make sure you ALL usernames have a PASSWORD.
• Fight Spyware- If your computer was on the internet at home, it likely has some spyware on it. Spyware can slow down your connection and give out personal information. There are many free spyware programs available online, but it is recommended that you install Spybot or Ad-Aware because we can verify that they are safe programs. These programs will also rid your computer of pop-up ads and browser hijacks which may break your internet connection.
• Hardware Requirements- If you would like information on what type of computer is recommended for use you can see our Recommended Computer Systems page.

• Drivers & Operating System Disks- These disks came with your computer when you first purchased it. They are often labeled with words such as "application CD," "re-install," or "system restore" Bring them to school in case something happens to your computer and you would have to re-install any hardware or software applications.
• Ethernet Cable- All rooms are provided with a RJ 11-45 cable (or in the case of Daniels, no cable is provided) which allows ONE computer to be connected to the network. You can purchase black 14-foot RJ 45-45 cables, which are standard Ethernet cables, from the computer lab for only $4 if you need one.
• Mini Hub- In order to connect more than one computer per room, you will need to use a mini-hub. You will find one of these in your room when you move in. In Daniels Hall, Sherman Hall, or the apartments at Goodwin and Green we do not have hubs available for rent, therefore you must purchase your own hub if you would like to hook up more than one computer. If you want to connect more than one computer to the network, or if you would just like to have a mini-hub of your own, you can purchase one at most major computing retailers. These mini-hubs typically cost under $50. (We use a 10/100 Linksys EZXS55W mini-switch) You cannot have a wireless hub in you room.
• Printer- There are laser printers in all of the computer centers with black and white printing for 3 cents a page and many labs also have color lasers at 20 cents a page. You can print to the lab lasers from your room using these instructions. You may choose the convenience of having your own printer in your dorm room, but don't forget those driver disks!