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ResNet Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question Topics

  1. General Information
  2. Fees and Billing
  3. Security and Scanning
  4. Bandwidth
  5. Managing Your Subscription
  6. Infrastructure and Networking
  7. Getting Help
  8. Other Questions
  9. Maplewood Park Apartments ResNet Service
  10. Cook House and Carl Becker House ResNet Service


1. General Information


  • 1.01 - What is ResNet?
    A: ResNet is Cornell University's broadband residential Internet (Ethernet) service. It provides dedicated, wired Internet connectivity to the university residence halls, as well as some graduate residences, Greek houses, and co-operative residences. These network connections provide connectivity to Cornell's Wide Area Network (WAN) and the Internet.
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  • 1.02 - What does having ResNet give me?
    A: ResNet allows you to have access to the Internet, e-mail, and on-line services using your own computer in your room. It also allows you to use Bear Access -- Cornell's suite of electronic and on-line services. Most residence hall rooms have one dedicated ResNet connection per person (a "port per pillow") so that each resident can have their own connection for their own computer. Dedicated ResNet connections are comparable to or faster than most cable modem and DSL service. You can use your connection at any time via the dedicated Ethernet port.
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  • 1.03 - Do I need to use ResNet?
    A: No, you do not need to use ResNet if you would prefer not to. You may, as an alternative, use a modem dial-up service to connect from your room. Cornell currently offers dial-up service through EZ-REMOTE (unlimited, for fee) and Express Lane (free, limited access); or you may use a dial-up-based commercial service (such as AOL, MSN, or a local dial-up provider). Connecting via dial-up will require that you have a modem for your computer and will also use your phone line whenever you are connected. Additionally, depending on your residence, there may be a fee to provide land-line phone service to your room. You may also use the computer labs and public kiosks for your computing needs. Wi-Fi connectivity is also available in many locations via RedRover -- Cornell's Wi-Fi network. More information on connection options can be found at Getting Online at Cornell.

    Some residents have also inquired about obtaining cable modem or DSL access in the residence halls. These services are not generally available in the university undergraduate residence halls. Greek houses, co-ops, and graduate residences may have this option depending on what cable and phone services are available at their specific location. Please see the FAQ "Can I get cable modem (RoadRunner) or DSL service instead of ResNet?" for further information on this question.

    Additionally, if you are living in one of the Campus Life undergraduate or graduate residences, please keep in mind that the basic (non-usage) cost of ResNet is included as part of the housing costs. The housing costs remain the same whether or not you choose to subscribe (there is no refund or credit if you do not use the service).
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  • 1.04 - What do I need to use ResNet?
    A: You need to have a computer, and your computer must also have an Ethernet card installed or built-in (typically, most computers will come with Ethernet hardware built-in or pre-installed) so that you can use the network connection. Please refer to CIT's Recommendations for Cornell Desktop Computer Systems for the minimum and recommended requirements for computer systems at Cornell. ResNet does not support configurations or operating systems which do not meet Cornell's minimum requirements (you may still try to use these systems, but we will not be able to assist you if you have problems).

    You may also need the operating system CDs for your computer in order to get connected. When you come to campus, please bring with you all CDs which came with your computer, operating system, and Ethernet card. You may need some of the software on these CDs to get connected. If you need software from your operating system CDs, but don't have the CDs with you, ResNet may not be able to help you.

    An Ethernet cable (or “drop” cable) to connect your computer to the Ethernet jack is currently provided in each residence hall room. This cable is a part of your room inventory and must remain in the room when you move or vacate. Residents will be charged a replacement cost for missing or damaged Ethernet cables.

    In order to subscribe on-line, you must also have a Cornell NetID. Prospective subscribers who do not have a NetID may be subscribed manually by calling the CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk).
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  • 1.05 - What kind of Ethernet card should I have for ResNet?
    A: Most of the ResNet network currently supports Ethernet at 10 Mbps speeds using unshielded twisted pair (UTP) wiring, also known as 10BASE-T. Most Ethernet cards now support at least 100 Mbps Ethernet as well 10 Mbps. This is generally referred to as 10/100 BASE-T. 100 Mbps Ethernet service is available on ResNet in a limited number of residence halls (Bauer, Court, Kay, Mews, Low Rise #8, and Thurston Court). We recommend that you make sure your network interface supports 10 Mbps Ethernet. Don't get an interface that works only with 100BASE-T as these will not function in many residence halls. Purchasing a card which supports both -- a 10/100 card -- is the recommended choice at this time.

    Additionally, the new residence halls on West Campus (Alice Cook House, Carl Becker House, Hans Bethe House, W.T. Keeton House, and House #5) support 10/100 Ethernet cards as recommended above, but are also capable of providing Gigabit Ethernet. Subscribers in these residence halls who wish to have Gigabit speeds must have both a computer which can support Gigabit performance and a Gigabit Ethernet card (also called 1000Base-T). Users are not required to use a Gigabit Ethernet card. A normal 10/100 card is perfectly fine and will provide performance the same as you would find in any other residence hall. Gigabit hardware is only needed if you want the option of using full Gigabit speeds. Users who wish to take advantage of the Gigabit speed available in these residences must also supply their own Gigabit-capable Ethernet cable. The Ethernet cables provided as part of the room inventory will not support Gigabit speeds. All new residence hall construction henceforward is expected to support Gigabit Ethernet.

    If you are buying an Ethernet interface, choose a well-known and respected manufacturer. Also check the warranty and return policy for the card so that you will be able to return it if it is defective or incompatible with your system. If you wish to purchase an Ethernet card that will have the greatest flexibility and be able to take advantage of all the different speeds available, you may wish to consider a 10/100/1000 card (which supports 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and Gigabit Ethernet).

    Among Ethernet hardware seen in previous years, ResNet has encountered complications with Linksys and C-NET Ethernet cards in the Cornell environment. We have not seen any specific problems with these in the last few years, with the previously-encountered problems having occurred some time ago, but you may wish to consider an alternative to purchasing one of these model cards for use with ResNet.

    Some Ethernet cards may be incompatible with some computers. For the most part, computers will come with integrated or pre-installed Ethernet which should not present any compatibility issues. However, if you are purchasing a separate Ethernet card, we recommend that you check with your computer's manufacturer to see if they recommend a particular Ethernet card for use with their system. In the past, ResNet has encountered this problem most frequently with laptop computers; although this issue has become less common over time. ResNet has also found in the past that some laptop PCMCIA-based Ethernet/modem combo cards have had signal strength problems in the Cornell environment. For laptop PCMCIA cards (PC cards), we suggest an Ethernet-only card in preference to an Ethernet/modem combo card. For more information and specific recommendations and cautions, please see CIT's Ethernet hardware recommendations.
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  • 1.06 - How do I subscribe to ResNet?
    A: You subscribe to ResNet on-line via the web. You must subscribe using your own computer and you must be using it in your own room. You must also have already obtained your Cornell Network ID (NetID) and password. When you are ready to subscribe, connect your computer to an active Ethernet jack in your room and start your computer. Open a web browser on your computer, and connect to the ResNet subscription page at http://ressub.cit.cornell.edu/ (until you subscribe, your connection will be limited to the ResNet subscription page and a few CIT support web sites). In order for this page to load, your operating system will need to be configured to obtain a network address automatically (this is often the default configuration, so most users won't need to make any changes to obtain an address automatically).

    If you experience any problems with the web-based authentication page, you may visit the Cornell Kerberos Distribution page where you can obtain and install SideCar. SideCar allows you to access restricted World Wide Web pages and other network services at Cornell through the use of your NetID and password. If your computer is properly configured, but SideCar is not installed, you should be automatically re-directed to a web-based Kerberos authentication system which will allow you to proceed without SideCar installed.

    If your computer will not connect at all, you may need to configure your operating system to use the direct Ethernet connection. The Getting Connected at Cornell University Guide will provide instructions on how to configure your operating system to work with ResNet.

    Once you have reached the ResNet subscription page, click the link to Sign Up and follow the directions given. Once you have completed the sign-up process and re-started your computer, your ResNet connection will be fully activated.
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  • 1.07 - Is ResNet the same thing as Bear Access or E-Mail?
    A: No. Bear Access is a collection of popular network services and on-line Cornell services assembled into a single package. Bear Access and e-mail are available to students, staff, and faculty whether or not they have ResNet. ResNet provides Internet access, but is not directly tied to any of the services you use with that access. Even if you don't subscribe to ResNet, you can still use Bear Access and e-mail from a lab or with a modem or from another computer that has access to the Internet.
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  • 1.08 - Is ResNet service available over the summer?
    A: Yes. ResNet service is available over the summer as well as for the academic year.
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  • 1.09 - Can I pre-subscribe for ResNet before I arrive at Cornell?
    A: No. ResNet had previously tested a pre-subscription option, but this is not currently available.
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2. Fees and Billing


  • 2.01 - How much does ResNet cost?
    A: The fees for providing network service are broken down into two components. The first part is a (monthly) ResNet fee which covers the cost of delivering the ResNet service to the university residences. The second part is a network usage component associated with maintaining the university’s commodity Internet service. Student network access at Cornell includes unlimited network connectivity within the Cornell Wide Area Network (on-campus network traffic) and also includes up to 10 Gigabytes per month of off-campus network traffic. If Cornell students use more than 10 Gigabytes of off-campus network traffic in a month, they are billed a usage-based network fee of $0.0015 per Megabyte beyond the 10 Gigabytes threshold. All network usage, both ResNet and RedRover (Wi-Fi) is tracked collectively for each individual student, rather than for individual computers or IP addresses and it is this combined total of all network usage which counts towards the 10 Gigabyte billing threshold.

    How the monthly ResNet fee is recovered depends on whether the subscriber is living in a Campus Life undergraduate or graduate residence hall, or in a Greek house or co-op served by ResNet.

    For subscribers living in the Campus Life undergraduate or graduate residences the monthly (non-usage) ResNet fee is included as part of the housing costs. Student subscribers in the Campus Life undergraduate or graduate residences do not receive any separate billing for ResNet and will only receive network charges if they pass the 10 Gigabyte per month threshold for off-campus network traffic. Usage fees for network traffic beyond 10 Gigabytes per month are charged to the subscriber's Bursar bill each month. Subscribers in these locations will not see any monthly charges for network service if their usage is less than 10 Gigabytes of off-campus network traffic per month. There is still a cost for ResNet, but the basic fee is included as part of the housing costs.

    Subscribers living in a fraternity, sorority, co-op, or other locations not administered or owned by Campus Life are charged $21.35 per month for ResNet service. For these residences, the monthly ResNet fee is not included in the housing costs and is billed as a separate charge to the subscriber's Bursar bill. The monthly fee for ResNet service is in addition to any usage-based charges incurred for surpassing the 10 Gigabyte per month student usage threshold.

    Billing for the summer is the same as for the academic year.

    Please note that the usage-based component of Cornell network service is different for students and non-students. For non-students using the ResNet service, the usage billing threshold is 5 Gigabytes, with the same $0.0015 per Megabyte charge for usage beyond the billing threshold, and further applies to each IP address individually rather than as a collective usage total. Wi-Fi usage is also not currently included in usage tracking for non-students. Further, what constitutes student status is specifically whether the individual is registered with the university as Cornell student. As an example, a student from another institution who is visting Cornell, such as for a summer program, but who is not officially registered with the university as a Cornell student, will be considered a non-student by the usage-based billing system and will have a 5 Gigabyte billing threshold.
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  • 2.02 - Why are you charging for bandwidth?
    A: The introduction of usage charges into ResNet billing are part of a restructuring of network fees designed to provide a fair and equitable rate structure and to recover the cost of supplying and maintaining the data service. ResNet has been included as part of this standardized billing model. Effective as of June 1, 2008, this billing model has been expanded to also included student Wi-Fi usage.

    For more information on how this billing model was arrived at, please visit the Network Rates web site. This site includes a network rates overview of the current rate structure and an FAQ section which both address how and why this billing system was developed.
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  • 2.03 - Why isn't the basic fee included for Greek houses and co-ops?
    A: In the case of fraternities, sororities, and co-ops many of these residences served by ResNet are not owned by the university; or the housing costs are recovered or administered differently from more traditional residence halls and student apartment housing. There are currently no provisions in place for recovering the ResNet costs as part of a housing fee in such instances.
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  • 2.04 - What could put me over the 10 Gigabytes per month usage threshold?
    A: Any network traffic coming from your computer which leaves the Cornell Wide Area Network (WAN) and any network traffic traveling from outside Cornell to your computer will count towards your off-campus network usage. This includes any of the following:
    • off-campus web pages you view
    • audio or video "streamed" to your computer from off-campus
    • files you download from off-campus sites
    • files you upload to off-campus sites
    • files download from your computer by off-campus users (such as through file-sharing programs like BitTorrent, LimeWire, Gnutella, eDonkey, or KaZaA)

    Remember that if you operate your computer as a server for the web or FTP, run file-sharing programs like BitTorrent, LimeWire, Gnutella, eDonkey, or KaZaA, or host out files through IRC or AIM, all of the traffic generated by off-campus users downloading from your computer counts towards your total off-campus network traffic. You will be billed if this activity exceeds 10 Gigabytes per month, even if you yourself never initiate a connection off-campus. If you run a file-sharing application or operate your computer as a server, you are responsible for all the network traffic this generates.
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  • 2.05 - What activities don't count towards the 10 Gigabyte usage threshold?
    A: Any network traffic which remains entirely within the Cornell Wide Area Network (WAN) does not count towards usage. There is no charge (or accumulated usage) for network traffic which remains on-campus. Network activity which does not count towards the 10 Gigabyte threshold for combined ResNet and RedRover usage includes:
    • e-mail sent or received using the Cornell mail system
    • access to campus web sites
    • access to CoursEnroll, Just the Facts, the Cornell library system, Net-Print, or any other Cornell-based online service
    • files uploaded to a Cornell campus server
    • files downloaded from a Cornell campus server

    No on-campus service will generate any network usage charges for you. It is especially important to point out that if you use the Cornell University e-mail system, no e-mail that you send or receive using the Cornell e-mail system will create any usage charges for you. All e-mail communications using the Cornell system take place entirely between your computer and the Cornell mail servers. Those mail servers then handle any routing of e-mail that leaves campus. It doesn't matter where in the world you are sending e-mail, as long as you are using the Cornell e-mail system, all that traffic is considered to be "on campus" by the usage-based billing system and does not count towards any usage charges for you. This is equally true whether or not the e-mail contains any attachments. You can send and receive large attachments using the Cornell e-mail system and they will not contribute towards any off-campus usage charges.

    Please note, however, that this is true only so long as you are using the Cornell e-mail system. If you use an "outside" mail service, such as Gmail or Hotmail, for example, then any e-mail which you send or receive using an off-campus mail service will count towards your off-campus usage and possible data usage charges (although this usage would typically be very small unless large or numerous attachments are involved).
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  • 2.06 - How much is 10 Gigabytes?
    A: For purposes of NUBB billing, 10 Gigabytes is considered to be 10,737,418,240 bytes. This is a little more than what could be stored on 14 data CDs, filled to capacity. Roughly speaking, five Gigabytes is the equivalent of more than 300,000 typical e-mail messages, 35,000 graphics files, 2500 MP3s, or 2 to 8 feature-length MPEG movies (in all cases depending on specifics as to size, resolution, and format).
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  • 2.07 - How many ResNet subscribers are likely to have usage bills for exceeding 10 Gigabytes per month?
    A: Based on network usage statistics gathered from August 2003 through October 2005, during which the billing threshold was 2 Gigabytes, approximately 23% of ResNet users, on average, utilized more than 2 Gigabytes of off-campus network traffic per month, with variation from month to month. This means that more than three-quarters of ResNet subscribers will normally have no usage-based charges in an average month. With the increase in the billing threshold from 2 Gigabytes to 5 Gigabytes as of July 1, 2006, it is expected, barring any other factors, that even fewer subscribers will incur usage charges.

    Of the approximately 23% of subscribers who have previously accumulated usage charges each month, more than three-quarters (average: about 85%) of this group typically had monthly usage costs of $20 or less. More than 95% of all ResNet subscribers had monthly costs about the same or less than the 2002-2003 flat-rate monthly installment cost of ResNet ($44.45). The remaining ResNet subscribers have higher monthly usage costs according to the volume of network traffic they utilize. Again, with the increase in the billing threshold, these numbers should become even smaller.

    For more detailed statistics, you may view additional ResNet NUBB Metrics for August 2003 through October 2005.
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  • 2.08 - When am I billed for ResNet?
    A: All ResNet billing is done at the end of each calendar month. All billing is by the calendar month.

    Under the usage-based billing plan, bills for the previous month's usage charges will be submitted to the Bursar at the beginning of each month. Students whose off-campus network usage is less than 10 Gigabytes per month for combined ResNet and RedRover activity will not receive a usage bill.

    For subscribers in Greek and co-op residences, the monthly charges for basic ResNet will be submitted to the Bursar at the beginning of each month for the previous month's service. For example, all charges for March are billed at the start of April.

    Subscribers who are not Bursar-billable must be processed manually and take additional time to be billed. Bills for these individuals are generated from suspense reports and are typically mailed two to three weeks after the end of the calendar month being billed.
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  • 2.09 - How can I pay for ResNet?
    A: For all ResNet subscribers who have a Bursar account, all charges are submitted automatically to the Bursar system. ResNet does not accept any other means of payment unless the subscriber does not have a valid Bursar account. If you cannot be billed via the Bursar system and wish to subscribe to ResNet, please contact us to make arrangements for payment.

    Subscribers whose charges are declined by the Bursar (either because they do not have a Bursar account or because their Bursar account will not accept charges, such as for being non-registered) will either be held in suspense in the Bursar system, or will be sent a bill via e-mail, at ResNet's discretion and as appropriate to the circumstances. Bills are payable by personal check or money order (made payable to "Cornell University"), or by departmental charge.

    ResNet does not accept cash payments.

    Due to recent changes in billing processes, ResNet no longer accepts payments by credit card without special arrangement.
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  • 2.10 - Is ResNet free for RHDs (or Faculty-in-Residence, RAs, CIT employees, etc.)?
    A: No. ResNet does not normally have any arrangements for providing free service for these individuals or groups. In some rare cases, departments may make arrangements to pay ResNet costs for certain resident faculty, staff, or students. In these cases, it your responsibility to make sure that these arrangements have been made with ResNet.
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  • 2.11 - Why don't you just block file-sharing instead of charging for bandwidth?
    A: Part of the reason for transitioning to this billing method is to standardized billing and data service cost recovery. The usage fee for academic and administrative units is the same as it is for ResNet. This is not something which is targeted at file-sharing programs such as BitTorrent, Gnutella, LimeWire, or KaZaA, but is a decision by the university to employ a standardized billing for the cost recovery of network service. Its intention is to have all members of the university pay their fair share of the network costs which they generate, regardless of how they create that cost. Generating 10 Gigabytes a day in network traffic costs the same regardless of whether it originates from file-sharing or a web server or an FTP server, and those costs associated with supporting that traffic still need to be recovered. Blocking file-sharing does not address cost recovery for bandwidth usage originating from other sources; and billing by usage allows users who choose to use file-sharing (without speaking as to how they may be using it) to continue to do so with the understanding that they will be required to cover the cost of the network resources they use.

    Additionally, file-sharing applications are not the issue currently which they have been in past years. The predominate source of network traffic within ResNet is now typically FTP and HTTP (web), based on 2002-2003 academic year data. Other protocols also continue to rise and fall, and one can not guarantee that any protocol you choose to block today will be the same one you need block a year from now. Usage-based billing distributes the cost of network connectivity fairly regardless of what protocols or applications may be utilizing that bandwidth, either now of 5 years from now. Usage-based billing also does not unfairly prejudice one use of the network over another. Some uses of file-sharing applications are entirely legal and legitimate, and blocking file-sharing would be at the expense of such legitimate uses.
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  • 2.12 - Are there activation and deactivation fees for ResNet?
    A: No. Previous ResNet billing models have included activation and deactivation fees under some instances and for some locations. The last of these fees were phased out as of September 2004. At this time, there are no activation or cancellation fees for ResNet subscribers.
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  • 2.13 - How do I appeal a usage charge if I've been hacked?
    A: If you believe your computer has been compromised, and you wish to appeal usage charges incurred as a result of such an incident, please contact the CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk) at helpdesk@cornell.edu. CIT will review these requests for consideration on case-by-case basis. However, each user is responsible for maintaining a secure system and taking steps to ensure that their computer is not vulnerable to compromises, hacks, and exploits. Users should make certain that they have the latest software updates, security patches, and virus updates to protect themselves against possible intrusions.

    For full information concerning appeals or requests for credit, and the criteria for these, please visit the Network Rates IP Billing Terms and Conditions page.
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  • 2.14 - How can I tell how much bandwidth I've used?
    A: To check your network usage and current charges, go to http://nubb.cornell.edu/. This is the web site for the Network Usage Based Billing (or "NUBB") system. This page will show your current accumulated network usage and charges (information is updated daily, so totals are as of the previous day).

    CIT also sends automated e-mail alerts to students when they approach the 10 Gigabyte threshold at which usage-based billing begins. This notifies users when they begin incurring usage charges.
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  • 2.15 - What if I have other questions about the network rates or want more information?
    A: If you have questions about the current network rates which aren't answered here, you may also visit the Network Rates web site. This site includes more detailed information about the rates as they apply to Cornell University as a whole (rather than just ResNet), additional FAQs, and a history of the how and why the new rate structure was developed.

    You may also send e-mail to netrates@cornell.edu with your questions.
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  • 2.16 - Is there an additional charge for multiple IP addresses if I have more than one computer?
    A: No. Previously, ResNet did charge a fee for additional IP addresses in some situations. However, effective as of June 1, 2008, with the change to all off-campus ResNet and Wi-Fi usage being tracked as a single collective total for each student, regardless of IP address, the additional fees for multiple IP addresses have been discontinued. All network usage is tracked collectively for each individual, both for ResNet and RedRover (Wi-Fi), and additional IP addresses no longer have a separate billing threshold. This means that students with multiple IP addresses will have the usage for all their IP addresses added together (along with all Wi-Fi) to determine when the 10 Gigabyte billing threshold is reached.
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  • 2.17 - How much does ResNet cost for the summer?
    A: Effective July 1st, 2003, billing is uniform under the network usage-based billing model, regardless of the date or time of year. Please see the section on "How much does ResNet cost?" for a detailed explanation of charges under the usage-based billing system.
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  • 2.18 - Are ResNet monthly charges for basic service pro-rated if I subscribe for just part of a month?
    A: Yes, effective as of April 2nd, 2007 ResNet now pro-rates for locations subject to a monthly charge (fraternities, sororities, and co-ops). Proration is at the daily level, so that users subscribed for less than a full month are billed based on the number of days they are subscribed, rather than for the full month.

    Please note that monthly charges currently apply only to non-bundled residences: Greek houses and co-ops. See the section on "How much does ResNet cost?" for a detailed explanation of ResNet charges and which residence halls receive a monthly charge for basic ResNet service.
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  • 2.19 - Are ResNet charges the same for staff and/or faculty as they are for students?
    A: With respect to just the non-usage charges for ResNet, namely the monthly fee for Greek houses and co-ops, and the bundled cost included in room rates elsewhere, the cost for ResNet to staff and faculty subscribers is the same as for students. Please see the section on "How much does ResNet cost?" for a detailed explanation of charges and costs.

    However, please note that, as of June 1, 2008, the structure for usage-based network fees are different for staff and faculty than for students. Staff and faculty usage-based charges continue to use a 5 Gigabyte billing threshold and are tracked individually by IP address, rather than being tracked collectively for all usage (but Wi-Fi activity is not subject to usage tracking). Students use a 10 Gigabyte billing threshold, but are tracked collectively for all off-campus usage, both all wired and all Wi-Fi combined count towards the billing threshold as a single collective usage total.
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  • 2.20 - What residence halls/living units with ResNet service are considered "bundled" (undergraduate and graduate) residences for purposes of billing?
    A: The following residence halls and living units, which are serviced by ResNet, are considered undergraduate residences for billing purposes. This means that the monthly ResNet fee is included in the housing costs for these residences. Residents at these locations do not pay a monthly fee for ResNet, and will only see charges for network activity if their off-campus network usage is greater than 10 Gigabytes per month for combined ResNet and RedRover usage.

        • 112 Edgemoor
        • 14 South Ave.
        • Akwe:kon
        • Baker Hall (North and South)
        • Baker Tower
        • Balch Hall
        • Becker (Carl) House
        • Boldt Hall
        • Boldt Tower
        • Cascadilla Hall
        • Comstock (Anna) Hall
        • Cook (Alice) House
        • Court Hall
        • Dickson (Clara) Hall
        • Donlon (Mary) Hall
        • Founders Hall
        • Hasbrouck Apartments
        • High Rise 1 (Jameson Hall/North Campus 1)
        • High Rise 5 (North Campus 5)
        • House #5 (new West Campus res hall)
        • Hughes (Charles Evans) Hall
        • Hurlburt (Ecology) House
        • Low Rise 6 (North Campus 6)
        • Low Rise 7 (North Campus 7)
        • Low Rise 8 (Holland International Living Center/North Campus 8)
        • Low Rise 9 (North Campus 9)
        • Low Rise 10 (Ujamaa/North Campus 10)
        • Lyon Hall
        • Maplewood Park Apartments
        • McFaddin Hall
        • Mennen Hall
        • Mews Hall
        • Risley (Prudence) Hall
        • Schuyler House
        • Sheldon Court
        • Thurston Court Apartments
        • Townhouse Community
        • W. T. Keeton House

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  • 2.21 - What residence halls/living units with ResNet service are considered "unbundled" (Greek or co-op) residences for purposes of billing?
    A: The following residence halls and living units, which are serviced by ResNet, are considered Greek and co-operative residences for billing purposes. This means that the monthly ResNet fee is billed directly to the subscriber at a charge of $21.35 per month. The monthly ResNet fee is not included in housing costs for these locations. The monthly charge of $21.35 is in addition to any usage charges incurred for off-campus network traffic beyond the 10 Gigabytes per month threshold for combined ResNet and RedRover usage.

        • 722 University Avenue
        • Delta Tau Delta (1 Campus Road)
        • Kappa Kappa Gamma (508 Thurston Ave.)
        • Phi Kappa Psi (525 Stewart Ave)
        • Pi Beta Phi (330 Triphammer Road)
        • Psi Upsilon (2 Forest Park Lane)
        • Sigma Alpha Mu (Phillips House/10 Sisson Place)
        • Sigma Phi (1 Forest Park Lane)
        • Sigma Phi Epsilon (109 McGraw Place)
        • Wait Avenue Co-op (302 Wait Avenue)
        • Wait Terrace (308 Wait Avenue)

    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Fees and Billing")

  • 2.22 - Can you automatically turn off of my account if my usage goes over a certain amount?
    A: No. Each subscriber is responsible for monitoring their own usage and for maintaining a secure, well-administered system. However, CIT sends automated e-mail alerts to students when they approach the 10 Gigabyte threshold for combined ResNet and RedRover usage. This notifies users when they begin incurring usage charges.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Fees and Billing")

  • 2.23 - Do you have statistics on how many subscribers end up with usage charges?
    A: Yes, for some previous years. ResNet NUBB Metrics are available from 2003 to 2005 with more information.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Fees and Billing")

  • 2.24 - Am I doing something wrong if I end up with usage charges?
    A: No. There is nothing inherently wrong with having usage charges, even every month. Network usage charges are not punitive or intended to in any way "penalize" users. The usage charges are simply a means of cost recovery aimed at fairly assessing the costs of service where that cost is incurred. Please keep in mind that, when compared to commercial broadband Internet services at about $45 per month, you would still be paying less for ResNet even with monthly usage charges of up to $20 per month.

    If you are seeing very high monthly usage charges, or are reaching the 10 Gigabyte billing threshold for combined ResNet and RedRover usage very early in a month, then this may indicate that there is a problem; such as your computer may have been compromised or hacked, infected with a virus or spyware, or you may be unknowingly hosting out large amounts of file-sharing or P2P traffic. Please see the FAQ "What can I do to make my computer more secure (stop hackers/prevent unauthorized usage)?" for ways to make your system more secure against unwanted activity.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Fees and Billing")

  • 2.25 - How do NUBB charges compare with other Internet providers?
    A: Even if a user incurs charges for reaching the usage-based billing threshold, such usage must significantly exceed the billing threshold before charges begin to reach sizeable monthly fees. The following table shows a comparison of several possible monthly fees and the total off-campus network usage which would be required under NUBB to reach that monthly fee. This table uses the 10 Gigabyte threshold effective as of June 1, 2008.
    Monthly Fee Equivalent NUBB Usage (Gigabytes)
    $0.00 10.00
    $4.95 13.22
    $9.95 16.48
    $14.95 19.73
    $19.95 22.99
    $24.95 26.24
    $29.95 29.50
    $34.95 32.75
    $39.95 36.01
    $44.95 39.26
    $49.95 42.52

    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Fees and Billing")

3. Security and Scanning


  • 3.01 - What can I do to make my computer more secure (stop hackers/prevent unauthorized usage)?
    A: There are several steps which you should take (regardless of whether you are on ResNet or not) to secure your system against hacking, viruses, and unauthorized usage. The following are a few of steps you should take:

    • Make sure that your computer has the latest critical security patches and updates. On a Windows machine, this is done by running Windows Update from the Start Menu or by visiting . You should do this regularly or configure your computer to automatically check for updates.
    • Install anti-virus and firewall software which provides real-time system protection for your computer. Symantec Client Security is available for free to all members of the Cornell community. Additionally, you should update your anti-virus software regularly to make sure you have protection against the latest viruses. Because of the frequency at which new viruses appear, you should configure your anti-virus software to automatically check for new updates daily.
    • Make sure that your computer requires a password to log on. For Windows XP and Windows 2000, in particular, make sure that you have a password set for your administrator account. Simply using a blank password makes your computer especially vulnerable to exploitation. The more secure the password, the better. (See Strong and Secure Passwords for information on what is and is not a good password.)
    • Make sure that you do not have any "Open Shares" on your computer. Windows operating systems allow you to share out folders and files on your hard drive so that other people on the network can access them. You can control who has access to your folders and what privileges they have. If you do not configure sharing to restrict access and allow "Everyone" to have "Full Control" of a shared folder or volume, this is considered to be an "Open Share" and gives hackers and viruses an open door into your computer. Make sure that you properly manage and restrict access to shared volumes, and consider disabling all shares if you aren't comfortable managing user access and privileges.
    • Secure your computer with a screen saver which requires a password. This will prevent other individuals from directly using your computer while you are not present and prevent them from accumulating usage charges or installing software which would allow them to access your computer remotely or run it as a server.
    For more information and other precautions you should take, please visit the following CIT web sites:

        • 12 Steps Towards Securing a Windows or Macintosh Desktop
        • Cornell IT Security Resources

    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Security and Scanning")

  • 3.02 - Do I have to do all this to secure my computer?
    A: Yes, it is your responsibility to maintain a secure system. In June 2004, the university promulgated Policy 5.4.1 -- Security of Information Technology Resources concerning user responsibility for ensuring the security of their computers on the net. In addition, if your system is compromised or infected by viruses, usage charges resulting from the compromise will be your responsibility (current network usage-based billing terms and conditions allow for granting only one credit for data usage appeals for the lifetime of the user). Additionally, if your system is found to be insecure, compromised, or infected, your network connection may be disabled (with or without notice) to protect other users and the Cornell network. For more information, please see the web page on System Security and Countermeasures Taken by the IT Security Office.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Security and Scanning")

  • 3.03 - Do you scan to see if my system is secure?
    A: Yes. Throughout the year, CIT conducts periodic scans to check for vulnerabilities on computers connected to the campus network.

    Please note that you should not rely on these scans as a means of identifying whether or not your system is secure. You should still check your system yourself to ensure basic security. See 12 Steps Towards Securing a Windows or Macintosh Desktop for a list of standard steps to take.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Security and Scanning")

  • 3.04 - Do your scans check to see what files I have on my computer?
    A: No. None of these scans check the contents of your computer. CIT scans do not gather any information about what files you have on your computer. The scans only check for vulnerabilities and are not able to tell anything about what sort of personal files you have on your hard drive.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Security and Scanning")

  • 3.05 - Does CIT monitor what web sites I visit or what I'm doing with the network?
    A: It is important here to distinguish between "content" and netflow/system logging information. Cornell University policy does not allow for the monitoring of content as a practice. CIT does not examine what information or files you are sending or receiving over the network. CIT does collect metrics on network traffic and applications, but does not normally analyze data content at the individual user level. CIT does not monitor or "sniff" individual data to examine the content of any data sent or received. The network-usage based billing system (NUBB) records the top 100 external IP addresses associated with your network activity, but these are normally accessible only to you to help you in identifying the source of your network usage.

    Please note, however, that exceptions could occur under extreme circumstances. Such cases could include acting under compulsory legal papers (such as a warrant issued by local, state, or federal authorities), reasonable suspicion of violation of law or policy with the permission of the appropriate university official, or a health or safety emergency. For more information, please see the Information Technologies Policy Office web page on Issues Related to "Privacy" in the Electronic Realm at Cornell. Please also see the Information Technologies Policy Office page for information regarding any changes to current policies and practices, especially as related to new laws and legislation which may significantly affect monitoring and privacy.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Security and Scanning")

  • 3.06 - Do I need to report it if my computer gets "hacked" or compromised?
    A: Yes. In June 2004, the university promulgated Policy 5.4.2 -- Reporting Electronic Security Incidents which requires that all security incidents be reported to the university. Reporting can be done on-line using the Electronic Security Incident Report form.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Security and Scanning")

4. Bandwidth


  • 4.01 - Is high bandwidth usage an issue on ResNet?
    A: Network capacity is finite, but the demand for bandwidth continuously increases. Previously, bandwidth-intensive applications such as Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing applications have completely saturated Cornell's network capacity, bringing Internet access nearly to a stand-still (specifically, this was mainly the result of outbound traffic being caused by users elsewhere in the world downloading from file servers and file-sharing applications running on computers at Cornell). Cornell has since taken steps to manage bandwidth usage and prevent high-bandwidth applications, particularly file-sharing, from threatening the university's network access and performance. Bandwidth usage at Cornell is currently within the limits of the university's network capacity.

    Additionally, under the new network usage-based billing system, billing for usage is intended to provide for the purchase and installation of additional bandwidth resources as there is demand.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Bandwidth")

  • 4.02 - How does Cornell manage bandwidth utilization?
    A: Beginning in 2002, CIT began working with the Student Assembly Committee on Information Technology and a faculty committee on bandwidth to address the problem of excessive bandwidth usage, testing several options for addressing this issue. The final outcome of this collaboration was to implement a packet-shaping solution for Cornell's commodity Internet connection. This went into effect in the Fall of 2002. The packet-shaping solution sorted network traffic according to protocol and application. File-sharing applications were assigned a lower priority than other network traffic and were also limited as to what fraction of the network capacity they could use. This did not block file-sharing applications from working, but was intended to prevent file-sharing from over-loading the network.

    This packet-shaping solution remained in effect for approximately two years, but has been discontinued as of October 2004 (although the hardware remains in place and can be restored if needed to address bandwidth issues). Monitoring of overall bandwidth usage at the university showed that actual usage had been within the limits of available capacity for several months and that the packet-shaping solution was no longer providing any significant benefit to network performance.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Bandwidth")

  • 4.03 - Can I see any information on bandwidth and network performance at Cornell?
    A: Yes, through October 2004. Information on network usage at Cornell is posted on the ResNet web site. Go to http://www.cit.cornell.edu/resnet/stats/. For an archive of previous reports, go to http://www.cit.cornell.edu/resnet/stats/archive.html. This information was gathered as part of the packet-shaping solution previously implemented, and therefore is available only through October 2004. More recent information is not currently available with public tools.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Bandwidth")

  • 4.04 - Why didn't Cornell have enough bandwidth for usage when cable modem and other Internet providers have unlimited/unrestricted access?
    A: To some extent, this is an apples and oranges comparison. There are a number of differences between the two types of services. Many cable modem services are a shared network. Unlike a switched network, such as ResNet is, a shared network means that all users on a particular subnet or LAN (all those who share the same Gateway/are on the same local network) are competing with each other for a share of the bandwidth provided. This sort of service places a bandwidth bottleneck on the local network and is more friendly towards a service's connection to the actual Internet because users automatically restrict each other's bandwidth by competing for the same piece of the pie. Switched networks, like Cornell and ResNet, give each user a full-speed dedicated connection which always allows them full access to their own personal connection, and which does not compete with any other users at the local level. The downside of this means that there is much higher load placed on the connection to the Internet, because not forcing users to share the capacity of the local network means that every user can be running full-blast all the time. Ultimately, this difference is mainly a question of how far "downstream" a network bottleneck occurs, but a switched network with a higher network capacity also creates the potential for greater bandwidth consumption.

    Cable modem and some other Internet services are also restricted in that they do not provide the same bandwidth capacity for outbound traffic as they do for inbound traffic. Most cable modem (and DSL) services have a smaller bandwidth available for outbound traffic than they do for inbound traffic. The infrastructure is, by design, intended to deliver a lot of signals to their subscribers, but wasn't originally designed to send much the other way. Cornell and most other university systems have no such difference. The inbound bandwidth capacity is often the same as the outbound capacity.

    These differences make the Cornell network one which is faster and has higher bandwidth capacity than most broadband commercial Internet services available to residential subscribers, especially with regards to outbound capacity. However, it is exactly for the reason that it is faster and has higher capacity that networks like Cornell's are most subject to difficulties from file-sharing. If file-sharing takes place on a computer on the Cornell network, that server is much more attractive to someone (or some application) looking to download that file than the same file on a cable modem network. The smaller outbound bandwidth provided by a cable modem system and the Shared nature of the network limits the ability of users from outside to download files from machines on the cable modem network. Cornell and most other university networks have no such restrictions. This has resulted, in the past, in the Cornell network being totally saturated by traffic being generated by users elsewhere on the Internet (and elsewhere in the world) downloading files (primarily through file-sharing programs, FTP, and IRC transfers) from computers on the Cornell network. Cornell has more than enough capacity to support the network activities of its own users, but it can not also support the activities of a vast number of users from outside Cornell also generating high-bandwidth usage at the same time.

    The network usage-based billing system provides for a means to allow ResNet subscribers to generate traffic coming from users outside Cornell accessing their computer (without monitoring or speaking as to what may be generating that traffic), so long as that subscriber is prepared to accept the cost of providing bandwidth to those users outside Cornell to whom they are hosting data or files.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Bandwidth")

  • 4.05 - Does Cornell restrict how much bandwidth ResNet can use compared to the rest of the university?
    A: No. Cornell does not currently segment, apportion, or otherwise restrict bandwidth for ResNet. There is no bandwidth which is specifically reserved for academic or administrative units, nor is there any cap placed on how much bandwidth ResNet can use. ResNet typically uses a majority of the university bandwidth.

    A few years ago, during the worst of the file-sharing bandwidth overload, CIT did place a temporary cap on how much bandwidth ResNet could use. This was only a temporary measure and was necessary at the time. ResNet bandwidth consumption due to file-sharing was completely shutting out academic and administrative units to the point where they had no network access. This was only a temporary measure while CIT pursued other answers to file-sharing bandwidth saturation, eventually implementing a traffic-shaping solution. The bandwidth cap on ResNet was removed in the Fall of 2002. There has not been any cap on ResNet's bandwidth since that time (beyond the overall limits of the university's capacity).
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Bandwidth")

  • 4.06 - Is ResNet allocated different amounts of bandwidth depending on the time of day?
    A: No. As answered in the previous FAQ, bandwidth for ResNet is not currently segmented or apportioned, including by time of day. ResNet currently has equal access to the university's full bandwidth capacity at all times.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Bandwidth")

  • 4.07 - Would you put a bandwidth cap on ResNet if there was another rush of file-sharing or something similar?
    A: It is possible, but very unlikely that CIT would reinstitute any sort of bandwidth cap on ResNet. CIT does have available a traffic-shaping/packet-shaping solution, which could be used in the event that bandwidth usage began seriously affecting network performance. If there were sudden bandwidth issues due to file-sharing or some new Internet application/function, CIT could also implement controls specific to the application or protocol. Instead of taking action affecting a specific segment of the community, such as ResNet, action can be taken against the specific applications or protocols (regardless of where within the university they are located).
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Bandwidth")

5. Managing Your Subscription


  • 5.01 - How do I subscribe to ResNet?
    A: You subscribe to ResNet on-line via the web. You must subscribe using your own computer and you must be using it in your own room. You must also have already obtained your Cornell Network ID (NetID) and password. When you are ready to subscribe, connect your computer to an active Ethernet jack in your room and start your computer. Open a web browser on your computer, and connect to the ResNet subscription page at http://ressub.cit.cornell.edu/ (until you subscribe, your connection will be limited to the ResNet subscription page and a few CIT support web sites). In order for this page to load, your operating system will need to be configured to obtain a network address automatically.

    If you experience any problems with the web-based authentication page, you may visit the Cornell Kerberos Distribution page where you can obtain and install SideCar. SideCar allows you to access restricted World Wide Web pages and other network services at Cornell through the use of your NetID and password. If your computer is properly configured, but SideCar is not installed, you should be automatically re-directed to a web-based Kerberos authentication system which will allow you to proceed without SideCar installed.

    If your computer will not connect at all, you may need to configure your operating system to use the direct Ethernet connection. The Getting Connected at Cornell University Guide will provide instructions on how to configure your operating system to work with ResNet.

    Once you have reached the ResNet subscription page, click the link to Sign Up and follow the directions given. Once you have completed the sign-up process, your ResNet connection will be fully activated.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Managing Your Subscription")

  • 5.02 - Will ResNet be cancelled automatically if I move out?
    A: No. ResNet does not receive notification if a student moves out of the residence halls, goes on leave, graduates, or otherwise leaves the university. You must cancel your subscription to stop service or you will continue to be billed for ResNet.

    Please note that you can self-manage your ResNet subscription to automatically cancel on a date that you specify. This option is offered during the subscription process, allowing you to choose a date on which your subscription will automatically cancel. You can also specify this date at any time by visiting the ResNet subscription page and clicking the link to "CHANGE your subscription's cancellation date."
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Managing Your Subscription")

  • 5.03 - How do I cancel my subscription?
    A: Go to the ResNet subscription page from a web browser. Click the link to "Cancel" and follow the instructions on-line. If you need to cancel and do not have access to the Internet, or otherwise would like assistance, please contact the CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk) for assistance (phone: 607 255-8990, e-mail: helpdesk@cornell.edu).
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Managing Your Subscription")

  • 5.04 - Do I have to do anything if I change rooms?
    A: Yes. If you change rooms, you must update your subscription with your new address. To do this, go to the ResNet subscription page once you are set up in your new room. Clink the link for "Move" and follow the instructions to update your address.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Managing Your Subscription")

6. Infrastructure and Networking


7. Getting Help


8. Other Questions


  • 8.01 - Can I get a longer Ethernet cable?
    A: No, neither ResNet nor Campus Life provide cables longer than 25 feet in length, nor do we supply couplers to join two cables together to create a longer cable run. There are two main reasons for this. First, this is a safety issue. Exposed cabling greater than 25 feet in length is considered a hazard and a safety risk and is not supplied for this reason. Second, the greater the length of cable over which the Ethernet signal is transmitted, the greater the attenuation of that signal, and the more likely the user is to have problems or be unable to connect due to a weak signal.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.02 - Can I get a shorter Ethernet cable?
    A: No. Beginning as of August 2005, ResNet cables will provided as part of the room inventory, rather than being distributed individually each year. As a result of provisioning and tracking cables as part of room inventory, shorter cables will no longer be provided.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.03 - Can I use my own Ethernet cable?
    A: You may try your own Ethernet cable, but most of the buildings serviced by ResNet are networked using a Cornell-specific wiring standard. This wiring standard is incompatible with many Ethernet cables. If you are using your own Ethernet cable and have any problems, the first thing you must do is stop using your own cable and try the one provided in your room. The CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk) consultants may not be able to assist you further with any problem until you have first tried the provided cable.

    Residence halls that do not use the Cornell-specific wiring plant are as follows: Alice Cook, Carl Becker, Court, Hans Bethe, HILC (Low Rise #8), Mews, and Schuyler. For these residences, you should generally be able to use your own (standard) Ethernet cable without problems. All other residences should use only the cable provided.

    The new West Campus residence halls (Alice Cook House, Carl Becker House, and Hans Bethe House) are also a special exception in that users who want faster speeds than 10/100 Ethernet must supply and use their own Gigabit Ethernet cable. Please note that you do not need to provide your own cable in these residence halls. The cable provided as part of your room inventory will provided connectivity up to 100 Megabits per second. You only need to provide your own cable if you wish to take advantage of the Gigabit speed Ethernet available in these residence halls.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.04 - Can I get a hostname (or domain name) for my computer?
    A: All ResNet IP addresses will automatically be registered with generic hostnames consisting of a string of letters and numbers. This is an automated process and usually takes place within one day of a user first subscribing. Vanity hostnames are not permitted at this time.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.05 - Can I use a Wi-Fi connection with ResNet?
    A: Cornell University's Red Rover Wi-Fi network service is separate from the ResNet network available in the residence halls, with a few special exceptions. Use of personal Wi-Fi access points within the residence halls requires that you report this to ResNet when you subscribe and is limited to use by ResNet subscribers. Subscribers who intend to use a Wi-Fi station may indicate this during the subscription process. Personal Wi-Fi access points will likely be subject to airspace restrictions in the future to ensure normal functionality of the campus Wi-Fi network. As the Red Rover service continues to expand into the residence halls, the likelihood of airspace policies being implemented will increase. Personal Wi-Fi access points must not interfere with the operation of any CIT or Cornell Wi-Fi network or device. Any Wi-Fi access point found to be interfering with the operation of a CIT or Cornell Wi-Fi network or device may be subject to immediate removal from the network until the interference is resolved. Any use of Wi-Fi networking which interferes with normal network operations is subject to all relevant Cornell, CIT, and ResNet policies. More information on Cornell's Wi-Fi service is available at the Red Rover web site.

    Effective as of June 1, 2008, network usage billing has been expanded to include RedRover (Wi-Fi) usage in addition to the wired ResNet usage. All network usage, both ResNet and RedRover (Wi-Fi) is tracked collectively for each individual student, rather than for individual computers or IP addresses. For Internet usage to or from off-campus sites, students (including ResNet subscribers) have a usage billing threshold of 10 GB (Gigabytes) per month. Only usage above 10 GB per month will be billed, at the rate of $0.0015 per additional MB (Megabyte).

    Additionally, it is very important to note that any subscriber operating their own Wi-Fi Ethernet node (Wi-Fi access point) will be held responsible for all network usage charges incurred, including if the Wi-Fi node is accessed by other individuals. It is the responsibility of the subscriber to secure, monitor, and administer their Wi-Fi access point if they choose to operate one.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.06 - Can I get cable modem (RoadRunner) or DSL service instead of ResNet?
    A: In most cases, no. Some graduate residences may have existing coaxial cable infrastructure (for cable TV), which will allow them to subscribe for cable modem service at their discretion. Fraternities, sororities, and co-ops, particularly those which are privately-owned, may also have existing cable TV or non-Cornell phone service which could support cable modem or DSL. If you wish to find out if your particular residence has or can support such service, check with the university facilities manager for that residence, or your building manager (or equivalent) for privately-owned Greek houses or co-ops.

    Use of the ResNet wiring infrastructure to provide outside service from another service provider in Cornell-owned buildings is not normally permitted.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.07 - Do I need to return my ResNet cable when I leave (or cancel my subscription)?
    A: ResNet cables in undergraduate and graduate university residences are part of the room inventory and must be left in the room when you leave. ResNet Ethernet cables are the property of Cornell University, and are now part of Campus Life room inventory as of August 2005. Residents will be billed a replacement cost for any missing or damaged ResNet cables.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.08 - Can I get more than one IP address?
    A: Yes, if there are addresses available. Please note that additional IP addresses are granted on an "as available" basis, and are not guaranteed. The number of available IP addresses is finite, and additional addresses beyond the first may need to be refused, recovered, or revoked by ResNet without advance notice. In all cases, there is a maximum of two additional IP address beyond the first which ResNet will provide. There is no added fee for additional IP addresses, where available.

    Subscribers may use a router, NAT, or similar device to connect multiple computers or other networkable devices with a single IP address (assigned to the router).

    Additional IP addresses are not intended to provide a means of circumventing network usage charges. Effective as of June 1, 2008, all network usage (both ResNet and RedRover) are tracked collectively by individual, rather than being tracked by IP address. This means that off-campus network usage for each IP address are added together and the combined total determines if the network usage billing threshold of 10 Gigabytes is reached. This means that requesting a second IP address will not have any effect on when or if an individual incurs network usage charges (other than if a user generates more activity through having two or more network devices connected than they would with only a single device; there is no longer a separate usage pool for each IP address and therefore no advantage to having a second IP address). The usage on all IP addresses will be added together and tracked as a single total for each indivdual.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.09 - Does CIT turn off my network connection if my computer has a virus?
    A: Yes, if circumstances warrant. If your computer is infected with a virus or worm which is spreading through the network (such as by sending out forged e-mails from your computer with copies of the virus, although this is only one way), especially if it is causing problems with the Cornell wide area network (WAN), CIT may deactivate your network connection or restrict the level of network access available until the virus has been removed from your computer. CIT will make an effort to contact you and notify you of the situation if your port has been deactivated or restricted.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.10 - Are there any other circumstances under which my network connection will be turned off?
    A: Yes. It is possible for your network connection to be deactivated or restricted for other reasons as well. In general these can be categorized as incidents of unauthorized usage or policy violations, causing problems for the network, non-payment for service, or legal issues.

    Unauthorized usage and policy violations include any use of the network which is in violation of Cornell or CIT policies (see the Computing at Cornell Policies page for more information). This can include scanning, probes, commercial usage, or attempting to use the network without a ResNet subscription or with an improper configuration.

    Network jacks may also be deactivated or restricted if the computers connected to them (whether intentionally or not) are causing problem on the Cornell network and adversely affecting performance for other users. Computers infected with active viruses fall into this category.

    Network connections may also be deactivated for non-payment of service. ResNet subscribers who do not pay their usage bills or other monthly charges in a timely manner will be deactivated until all outstanding charges are settled.

    Legal complaints, violations, or issues may also result in a network connection being deactivated until the matter is resolved. Alleged copyright violations are one example of this.

    In all cases, CIT will make an effort to contact you and notify you of the situation if your port has been or is going to be deactivated or restricted. Please note, however, that CIT will not delay taking action to preserve network integrity and security if the user can not be immediately contacted.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.11 - Can I get my network jack moved (or a different jack activated or a new jack installed)?
    A: Yes, if you have an existing (but inactive) jack, you may have a data port on this jack activated for a one-time fee. This is specifically for an already- existing data port that is currently inactive. To request that an additional data port be activated, go to the ResNet subscription page and click the link to "REQUEST a jack activation." The current fee to request a data port activation is $67.25.

    Installation of a new jack, as opposed to activating a data port on an already-existing jack, is not normally available.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.12 - What is this RESNET-ANNOUNCE-L mail I'm getting?
    A: All ResNet subscribers are automatically added to the RESNET-ANNOUNCE-L mailing list. Announcements concerning ResNet, network outages, major viruses, policy issues, billing or service changes, and other important issues relating to or of potential interest to ResNet subscribers are sent to this mailing list. This is one of ResNet and CIT's primary means of contacting ResNet subscribers to deliver information. In general, an effort is made to only send significant announcements to this list and to limit mailings to, at most, a few messages per month, although communications may be more frequent as circumstances warrant.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

  • 8.13 - Can I use my X-box, PlayStation 2, or other game console with ResNet?
    A: Yes, but any game console, as well as any other networkable device, must either be registered with ResNet and assigned a unique IP address (subject to availability), or else you must operate the game console behind a router, NAT, or similar device which does not require the game console itself to be assigned a unique IP address. Use of an unregistered game console with a ResNet IP address will be detected as a unauthorized device and may result in your network connection being deactivated.

    CIT does not provide any official support for game consoles on ResNet. In order to register the game console, you will need to provide the hardware address (also known as a "MAC address") of the game console's Ethernet hardware. If you use the device beyond a router or NAT, you will not need to know the hardware address.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Other Questions")

9. Maplewood Park Apartments ResNet Service


  • 9.01 - How is ResNet service different at the Maplewood Park Apartments?
    A: There are a few differences in the ResNet service provided at the Maplewood Park Apartments compared to the rest of ResNet. One difference is the type of wiring infrastructure in place. Instead of using a copper wire infrastructure, Maplewood is connected to ResNet by fiberoptic cables. Use of fiberoptic technology allows for the connection of multiple living units spread over a wide area using less network equipment (metal cabling produces more signal loss, requiring distribution points with repeaters to boost the signal; but the fiberoptic cables don't require this). Use of fiberoptic cables does mean that subscribers will need a media converter (provided for them) in order to connect the fiberoptic jack to a traditional RJ45/UTP Ethernet card.

    The Maplewood Park Apartments have also been wired with network jacks available in every room to make it more convenient for residents to connect their computer in the room of their choice in large living areas with multiple rooms.
    (Back To Top Of Page : Back to "Maplewood Park Apartments ResNet Service")

  • 9.02 - Do I have to do anything different to subscribe to ResNet in the Maplewood Park Apartments?
    A: By and large, no. CIT is currently in the process of pre-installing the necessary fiber media convertors into all Maplewood apartments. Residents need only connect to the provided media convertor and then follow the normal ResNet subscription process (see "How do I subscribe to ResNet?" above).

    As the pre-installation of these convertors is an on-going process, there may still be a few residences which do not have the media convertors pre-installed. In these cases, residents can obtain a media convertor from the Maplewood community center. It is expected that all residences will have media convertors pre-installed by late August 2008.
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  • 9.03 - Is billing different for the Maplewood Park Apartments than for other residences on ResNet?
    A: No. Maplewood is considered a graduate residence for purposes of ResNet billing (see "How much does ResNet cost?" above). Previously, there was an activation fee to turn on data service, but this has been discontinued and Maplewood now uses the same billing as all other graduate residences.
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  • 9.04 - Do I need to have a media converter to use ResNet at Maplewood?
    A: Yes, unless you have your own fiber Ethernet card. The most common sort of Ethernet cards you will normally see use UTP/RJ45 connections. If you have a typical Ethernet card of this sort, then yes, you will need to have one of the fiber media converters to use ResNet. However, if your computer has an Ethernet card which supports a fiberoptic connection, you should be able to connect directly to the fiber jack and do not need to use a converter in this case.
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10. Alice Cook House, Carl Becker House, and Hans Bethe House ResNet Service


  • 10.01 - How is ResNet service different in the new West Campus residence halls (Alice Cook/Carl Becker/Hans Bethe)?
    A: There is one difference between ResNet service in the new West Campus residence halls and ResNet service elsewhere. The network infrastructure and hardware used in these residence halls has been installed to support Gigabit Ethernet. This is the next step up in network speed from 100 Megabits per second (Mbps) service, which was previously the highest speed available with ResNet. ResNet subscribers in these residences who wish to use Gigabit networking speeds have the option to do so, if they have the necessary hardware. More and more computers are shipping with Ethernet cards which support Gigabit Ethernet, but many still include a 10/100 card as the default Ethernet card.
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  • 10.02 - Do I have to use Gigabit Ethernet or doing anything special?
    A: No, absolutely not. If you don't have a Gigabit Ethernet card, you can use your existing 10, 10/100, or 100 Mbps Ethernet card. You do not need to buy a new Ethernet cards just because you will be living in one of the new West Campus residence halls, and you will still get ResNet performance and speed equal to what you would have in any other residence hall (apart from these two). It only means that you won't have the "latest and greatest."
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  • 10.03 - If I have an Ethernet card that won't do Gigabit speeds, does that mean my network connection will be slow?
    A: No. If you have a 10/100 Ethernet card, you will still have 100 Mbps speed, which is as fast as is available in any other residence hall served by ResNet (outside of the new West Campus residence halls). If you have been subscribed to ResNet before, things should work as fast or faster for you as they have before.
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  • 10.04 - Do I need to do anything special to use the Gigabit service?
    A: Yes. To begin with, you must have a computer with a motherboard and Ethernet card which will support Gigabit Ethernet. If you are not certain whether you have the necessary hardware and/or Ethernet card, check your computer's documentation or manuals, or contact the computer's manufacturer to find out.

    If you have a computer which will support Gigabit performance, but you do not have a Gigabit Ethernet card, then you will need to purchase a Gigabit Ethernet card, if you want to use Gigabit service. Remember that you do not need to purchase a new Ethernet card to use ResNet in the new West Campus residence halls if you already have a 10/100 Ethernet card (or other non-Gigabit card). You can use ResNet without running at Gigabit speed, and continue using your existing Ethernet card.

    If you have a computer and Ethernet card which support Gigabit Ethernet, you will also need a network cable for Gigabit connections. The standard ResNet Ethernet cable provided in your rooms only support speeds up to 100 Mbps. You must supply your own Gigabit Ethernet cable if you wish to use the Gigabit networking.
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  • 10.05 - Is there a particular type of Gigabit Ethernet card I should purchase?
    A: We would recommend purchasing a 10/100/1000 Ethernet card -- one which will also support slower speed networking, besides just Gigabit Ethernet. Currently, Gigabit service is available only in the new West Campus residence halls. If you move to another residence hall or move off campus and wish to use a traditional cable modem or DSL service, you will want to make sure that your Ethernet card will support slower network speeds.

    Apart from this, please see the answer to the question "What kind of Ethernet card should I have for ResNet?" for further recommendations. In general, you should purchase a card from a well-known, recognized, and reliable manufacturer. You should also check with your computer's specifications and/or manufacturer to see if a particular type or make of Ethernet card is recommended for your system to prevent any incompatibilities.
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  • 10.06 - Is there an extra charge for Gigabit Ethernet?
    A: No. The charges are the same as for all Campus Life residence halls. Please be aware, however, that faster performance will mean that you could also generate more bandwidth usage more quickly. Being able to transfer more data, faster, also means that you will be able to surpass the 10 Gigabyte billing threshold for combined ResNet and RedRover usage more quickly, making it easier to accumulate network usage-based billing charges. Be sure to monitor your NUBB usage to make sure you aren't generating more network usage than you planned to.
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