Recommendations For Computing Needs

ResNet offers Internet access support for persons staying in the UNL Residence Halls. Below you will find recommendations for your optimum computing and networking needs. From operating systems to anti-virus programs, here's what you'll need.

Operating system

• Should be Macintosh OSX, Windows XP or Vista.
• (If buying a new Windows computer, buy it with Vista Basic and then buy a Vista Business upgrade at IS Sales for $10. http://sales.unl.edu/licenses/microsoftcampusstudents.asp)
• Should have all current Critical and security Updates installed.
• (XP computers should have Service Pack 3. Windows Vista should have service pack 1.)
• Recommended systems http://shop.unl.edu

Older operating systems are still supported (on a best effort basis), but the bulk of our experience and tools are geared towards XP, Vista and OSX 10.

Antivirus

• Should have one (and only one) good anti-virus program that is getting regular updates.  Examples:
• Sophos (The campus wide licensed AV software). http://antivirus.unl.edu/
• Norton Anti-Virus (Also as part of Norton Internet Security)
• McAfee Virusscan (Also part of McAfee Security Center)
• Several free programs are available to download as well:

• Grisoft AVG http://free.avg.com/
• Avast http://www.avast.com

Anti-spyware

• Should have several anti-spyware programs installed and used regularly. We recommend:

• Windows Defender (Defaults to a daily scan at 2:00 AM) http://www.microsoft.com
• Spybot Search and Destroy http://www.safer-networking.org/en
• Lavasoft Adaware 2008 personal http://www.lavasoft.com

Network Access

Every room has at least two gray Ethernet capable Data Ports. Halls with suite/apartment style rooms should have one data port in each bedroom and one in the common area. You will need to provide your own Ethernet cable. Ethernet cables are available at the Computer Stores in both Unions and the 501 Building. Due to Information Services guidelines, there are to be no switches/hubs plugged into the Data Ports; one computer per port.

New for 2008: Wireless Network Access

There is a wireless initiative this year with the aim of having wireless access in every residence hall (except Abel*) by Fall 2008 opening. This is a massive effort by University Housing and Information Services. Given the size of this endeavor, every hall may not be finished by move-in, but work will continue until wireless access is available in every residence hall.
*Abel Hall is being extensively remodeled. It will be configured for wireless access after the remodel is done. Estimated completion date is approximately Fall 2010.

Not Allowed

Due to security concerns and UNL Information Services policy no wireless routers/switches are allowed on the UNL wired network infrastructure. Any unauthorized equipment found on the network will result in the room losing network access until such time as the unauthorized equipment is removed.

Word processing - MS Office/Word is the most common (available at IS Sales for under $15 http://sales.unl.edu/licenses/microsoftcampusstudents.asp).

Need help/advice? Have questions? Contact Resnet at 472-3535, resnet@unl.edu, http://resnet.unl.edu/. Office is in the Sandoz Computer lab.

Computer Help Center: 472-3970, http://www.unl.edu/helpdesk/, CHC is in the 501 Building.