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The Computer Services Department of
the Office of Institutional Computing
exists to aid students in the utilization of computer resources
on our campus. We seek to provide an open environment where the
rights and sensibilities of all members of the academic community
are respected. In order to facilitate this goal, we are committed
to promoting ethical and responsible use and allocation of computer
and network resources. Every student, faculty member, and staff
person should read the Methodist University Computer Use Policy
located at the end of this publication. Everyone who uses
computer resources at Methodist University is bound by that policy
and acknowledges its provisions by the act of using those resources
and facilities
Frequently Asked Questions about Computing
at Methodist University
We hope that the following questions and answers will give you
an idea of what to expect when using a computer at Methodist University.
Q 1: What is MUNET?
A: MUNET is the University's Internet access and email system,
carried by the fiber optic backbone that connects all permanent
buildings on campus.
Q 2: I live in one of the residence halls.
Do I need to have my own computer at Methodist University?
A: A personal computer is important to any student, but Methodist
University students are not required to purchase one, unless you
are attending one of the Business, PGA, or Graphic Design Programs
that require the student(s) to have a laptop computer. There are
computers in several laboratories on campus that are equipped with
Microsoft Windows, Internet access, word processing capabilities,
and are accessible for over eighty hours per week. Students majoring
in graphic design have access to an Apple Macintosh lab—with current
software from Apple and Adobe—for their studio course work. Nevertheless,
many students own their own computers because it is more convenient
to have one equipped as desired, available when needed, and loaded
with personal software and data. Students in all permanent residence
halls are able to connect directly to MUNET, using sockets in their
rooms. This means that you have direct, 24-hour Internet access
(without dialing or using a telephone line).
Q 3: What kind of computer should I buy?
Computer Services recommends the following minimum computer configuration.
A Pentium V class or better PC/Laptop having a USB port, NIC (Network
Interface Card), Optional Wireless Card that complies with the "B"
or "G" Wireless Standards. Be sure that you ask about the warranty
and technical support provided by the company you purchase your
computer from. It is recommended that you get at least a 4-year
warranty with on-site repair and parts. Computing Services "Highly"
recommends when purchasing any model laptop to also purchase a case
to carry your laptop around in. Not a book bag or knapsack.
For Business and PGA majors, other students, faculty, or staff
interested in a Lenovo laptop, Methodist
University's Featured Notebooks Computers. The standard configuration
comes with the Leveno Thinkpad Protection. Complete your order online
with a credit card. It does not come with any version of Office
Professional, this is an additional purchase through Lenovo. You
will deal directly with and through IBM for the laptop purchase,
not Methodist University.
For Graphic Art Design majors and any other students, faculty,
or staff interested in an Apple computer, Methodist University has
an online store through the Apple website. Go to the Apple
Store, then choose "Education Store" on the left side of the
page. The site will ask for your designation as a student or faculty
member and then for you to choose an institution. Choose Methodist
University and complete your order online with a credit card. Recommended
systems for graphic design majors will be added to the Methodist
online store soon. Please contact the Department
of Art with specific questions before ordering.
No versions of Windows 95/98 are supported by Methodist University.
The computer/laptop must be fully functional. If your computer meets
these specifications, you will be able to connect with McNET and
receive the full range of Internet and email services. However,
there may be limitations encountered in the range of our campus
services with operating systems released within the past 12 months.
Also, if you have a Macintosh G3 or better that runs OS/8.1 or later,
you should be able to connect it as well. You should have at least
1 GB of memory, and at least 100 MB of free hard drive space. You
should also have a CD ROM drive, DVD +RW or CD/DVD Combo, and USB
slots for connecting USB devices. We strongly recommend that you
also bring an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to plug your computer
into, and install some type of antivirus software on your computer
and keep it updated regularly. You do not need a modem to connect
to MUNET.
Q 4: Can I buy a computer through Methodist
University?
A: No. You can only purchase the Category 5 (CAT V) network cable,
USB network interface card (USB NIC), or PCMCIA card (used in laptops)
from the University bookstore. You should make your own arrangements
to buy the computer before you come to Methodist or buy it from
a local (Fayetteville area) vendor. However, if you would like to
purchase a laptop thorough Lenovo, see question 3.
Q 5: I don't want to bring my computer to school
on the airplane or bus. Can I have it shipped to the University?
A: Yes, you can. You must notify Computer Services to expect the
package. For insurance reasons, Computer Services must hold the
computer as received. We will not break any packing seal. Once you
arrive on campus, you should come to the Computer Services office
with a picture I.D. We will sign the computer over to you as we
received it. You should ship the computer to the following address:
Attention: Sam Clark
Computer Services
Methodist University
5400 Ramsey Street
Fayetteville, NC 28311
Q 6: How do I get an Internet account at Methodist
University?
A:Methodist University provides students with the ability to send
and receive e-mail as well as access World Wide Web and network
resources from laboratory computers and residence halls. Your network/e-mail/
Blackboard username and password are the same for all systems. New
student user accounts are auto-generated once a student is "Accepted"
to Methodist University. Once "Accepted" to the University, the
Admissions Office will mail your network, e-mail, and Blackboard
account information to you. If you have not received a letter from
the Admissions Office, you can contact the Computer Assisted Composition
(CAC) Laboratory at 910-630-7300 to obtain your username and password
information, provided one has been created for you. To request an
account, you can visit the CAC Lab (room T-375) in the Trustees'
Building. A valid Methodist University ID card is required and there
is a 48-hour processing period for all account requests. No accounts
will be created without a valid Methodist University ID card or
over the phone. Your account will be valid until one (1) week after
you graduate or you no longer attend Methodist University. If you
have files/e-mails that you wish to save after leaving or graduating,
it is your responsibility to forward the files/e-mails to your personal
e-mail account. We are unable to restore files/e-mails after the
account has been deleted.
Q 7: I am a resident student at Methodist University.
To whom do I talk concerning hooking my computer up to get E-mail
and getting on the Internet?
A: You do not need to contact anyone in order to hook up your computer
for Internet or email access. You will need a network cable (CAT
V cable) at least 50 feet long in order to connect from your computer/laptop
to the socket in your residence hall. You can purchase this cable
prior to coming to Methodist, local store in Fayetteville or MU
bookstore.
Q 8: What is this going to cost me?
A: There is no actual charge for your connect time to MUNET. What
you will pay for is the hardware to make the connection to MUNET.
You may already have what is necessary. Most computers now come
with a built in Network Interface Card/Slot (NIC). You have a NIC
if you can find a square port on the back of your computer that
looks a lot like a modular telephone jack, but is slightly larger.
If you already have a NIC and a CAT V network cable, see question
7. If you have a laptop, you can use a PCMCIA card (refer to the
instructions that came with your laptop). If you don't have either
one, use a USB NIC adapter. You can purchase all of these items
at the University bookstore. After you have those hardware items.
If you have a laptop with wireless capability (B and/or G).
See question 19 for wireless access point locations.
Q 9: What if I already have a CAT V cable,
USB NIC or PCMCIA card (laptop) for my computer/laptop?
A: You will not have to purchase these items, and the recommended
length of the CAT V networking cable should be 50' so that you can
connect to the network jack from anywhere in your room. See question
8.
Q 10: What can I do on the Internet?
A: You can send and receive email and have access to the world
of resources that resides on the Internet. Be careful, though, because
anything as powerful as the Internet can get you into trouble. At
Methodist University, Internet access is granted for Educational
Purposes Only. Using campus systems and networks for commercial
gain, or pornographic, racist, or abusive purposes is strictly prohibited.
Good taste and discretion must be exercised on the Internet. You
must not engage in any conduct that might hurt someone else. A good
rule of thumb is, if in doubt, don't do it. Methodist University
will under no circumstances be responsible for financial obligations
incurred by students using the Internet facilities of the University.
Q 11: What if I already have an Internet Provider?
A: If you already use an Internet provider such as AOL, you can
use this system at Methodist University if you would like. Using
the modem will tie up the telephone in your room and access time
will be about 50 times slower than MUNET.
Q 12: What if I have a laptop computer?
A: As long as your laptop meets the specifications listed in question
3, you will be able to hook it up to MUNET.
Q 13: Are there any restrictions concerning
programs that I can run on my computer connected to MUNET? How about
Instant Messenger and Internet file sharing programs like KaZaA
or Morpheus?
A: Such activities as downloading of huge files from sites such
as KaZaA, Morpheus etc, take big chunks of the bandwidth that you
share with everyone else on MUNET. We accept no responsibility as
to how well or fast such programs run or whether they run at all.
Furthermore, Peer to Peer software can spred VIRUSES. We
will not install, configure, or support any file sharing programs
including AOL, Hotmail, KaZaA, Morpheus or problems these software
programs may cause by installing them to your computer.
Q 14: What sort of software resources do I
have access to on the campus network?
A: As far as software resources, you will not have any access to
download software. You can access many library resources online:
Davis
Memorial Library.
Q 15: Do I have access to a laser printer on
MUNET?
A: There are laser printers in the CAC lab, Clark Hall lab, and
Library. You can print your documents on one of them whenever the
labs or librry is open. You can't use the laser printer from your
room, you have to go to the lab or library. We ask that you do not
Abuse this privilege.
Q 16: I sit down in my room in Weaver Hall
to bring up my paper that I was working on in the CAC Lab but I
can't because I don't have Microsoft Word or any of the Microsoft
Office suite that is in the CAC Lab.
A: The software programs installed on the computers in the labs
on campus can't be used across the network. Only data files you
have created can be accessed across the network, but licensed software
from the labs cannot be transferred. If you want to use Microsoft
Word or any other licensed software program on your computer in
your residence hall, you must purchase that software for your own
use. You can purchase software from Scholarbuys at a student reduced
rate. For information on Student, faculty or staff purchases go
to Scholarbuys
for more information, or click on "Students & Educators" and follow
the prompts.
Q 17: What if I already have Word Perfect loaded
on my computer?
A: Microsoft Word is the Methodist University's word processing
program of choice. That means that you will probably use Microsoft
Word in the CAC Lab for word processing. If you use Microsoft Word
in the CAC Lab, you will have to convert your document to Word Perfect
format in order to access it from your computer/laptop in your dorm
room. You can also save your documents in Rich Text Format (RTF).
If you don't save your files in RTF, you can go back and forth between
word processing programs, but it is cumbersome.
Q 18: I have Microsoft Office 2005, which has
a different version of Microsoft Office from what you have in the
lab. Won't that cause problems?
A: It can. If you save your documents in Rich Text Format (RTF),
you should not have a problem. If you are having a problem, check
with the CAC lab assistant. He/she can convert your documents for
you and/or show you the format to save documents in to move between
versions.
Q 19: Where on campus are Wireless Access Points
located?
A: Wireless access points are located in the following areas: PA
Bldg, Davis Memorial Library (1st & 2nd floor), PGM classroom, Math/Computer
Science Bldg, Cape Fear Commons Community Bldg, Chris' House, Nimocks
Fitness Center, Clark Hall, Riddle Center, Berns Student Center,
Science Bldg, and on the 1st floor common areas of Garber, Sanford,
Cumberland residence halls. Proposed locations after the network
infrastructure is updated include; 1st floor common area of West
residence hall and Trustees Bldg.
Q 20: What if I have a problem configuring
my computer to access the Internet?
A: We do proceed from the assumption that your computer is operating
properly before you attempt to connect it to MUNET. If it is and
you still cannot get it to connect, then call us at 7300 and we
will attempt to troubleshoot your problem over the telephone. If
this doesn't work, we may then need to dispatch a technician to
your room to take a look at it. Be advised, we do not make
same day appointments. You will have to make an appointment
for a technician for the following day. When the technician first
enters your room, he/she will evaluate your computer to determine
if it is working properly and meets the specifications mentioned
earlier. This means that your computer must be out of any container
or box, set up, plugged in, with the monitor, keyboard and mouse
attached and the computer/laptop turned on. If not, you will have
to make another appointment after you set up your computer. We
do not set up any other devices to include, printers, scanners,
zip drives, etc. If you are having a problem with your
computer, you will have to contact your original vendor for support/repair
or local computer vendor for support/repair. If you have trouble
after that, we will check the socket in your room to verify that
it is working properly. The network up to the wall socket
is MU responsibility. The computer is your responsibility.
Q 21: What if I get a virus like Funlove or
I Love You on my computer and it won't work anymore?
A: Be very careful about loading diskettes, CDs, or programs into
your computer. Be careful about opening email messages or attachments
from people you do not know. You will not get a virus from MUNET
(See question 22). We strongly advise that you purchase
and install one of the current virus protection software packages
on your computer and keep it updated. They are available
at almost any store that sells software and online. The University
bookstore sells anti-virus software as well. Be warned, the University
does not provide or install any anti-virus software on student computers.
This is the individual user's responsibility as well as keeping
it updated.
Q 22: I think I picked up a virus from MUNET.
What do I do?
A: That is not likely. MUNET is just the medium used to access
the Internet. There is no software involved when accessing MUNET.
If you are worried that you have a virus on a diskette, bring it
to the CAC lab and the lab assistant will take a look at it for
you. We monitor our servers for virus-like activities to insure
that viruses do not appear or spread within our network. If we determine
that your computer has a virus that is affecting MUNET, we will
disable your account until we determine what the problem is. If
your computer has a virus, we will not reactivate your account until
you purchase an anti-virus software program and install it. When
you install the virus program, update the virus definitions and
scan your computer. Call 7300 and advise the lab attendant that
you have completed the above steps and we will then check and re-activate
your account.
Q 23: What, besides my computer and printer,
can I connect to my wall computer socket?
A: Residence hall connections to MUNET are for a single computer
or laptop use only. It is against University policy for a user to
connect any device to the campus network that will allow additional
equipment to be connected. Such devices may include, but are not
limited to: wireless access points, bridges, routers, switches,
hardware and software servers, transceivers, converters, hubs, printers,
concentrators, etc. You are not allowed to attach anything to our
network that we don't authorize to include Wireless Access Points.
If it is found that you have connected a wireless access point
in your residence hall and it is interfering with others ability
to access the Internet, your connection (port) will be disabled.
You will need to contact the CAC lab attendant for further guidance
to re-enable your Internet port.
Q 24: I want to share devices such as drives,
printers and modems with other users over the network. How can I
do that?
A: You can't. It is a violation of University policy to share
computer devices over the network. You can't configure a device
that is attached to your computer, such as a printer, scanner, or
hard drive in such a manner that makes it visible or usable by anyone
else on the network. If you need to share files, use floppy disks,
usb thumb drives, CD-writer, CD-rewriter, DVD-writer, DVD-rewriter,
USB External Hard Drive or zip disks.
Q 25: Can I let my roommate use my computer
for his or her E-mail?
A: Yes, but you must have a valid account (See question 6).
Q 26: Are there any times when MUNET won't
be available?
A: For system maintenance, upgrades and user management, MUNET
will be unavailable during these time periods: Monday - Sunday,
class schedule dependant. During the summer, we conduct maintenance
on MUNET. While the system will be up most of the time, we cannot
guarantee the same level of service that we maintain during the
regular spring and fall semesters, and any students living in the
residence halls during the summer can expect periodic fluctuations
and outages at any time.
Q 27: I take my computer home at Christmas
(or next summer), use it, and bring it back to University at the
end of the break. It won't allow me to login or access the internet
or email when I plug it in. How come?
A: If you have changed your configuration or added programs such
as Instant Messaging service, dot-net, Peer to Peer file sharing
programs or other software or hardware, your computer may not connect.
You will need to contact the vendor of the software or hardware
that you have installed, or just remove it, to restore the computer
back to its original configuration. You may have also installed
a Maleware/Spyware/Adware program with or without your knowledge
and can be a cause of not being able to connect to the network.
You will need to install a Malware/Spyware/Adware program to remove
this type of software
Q 28: I am an athlete and will be moving in
two or three weeks earlier in August than other students. Can I
get my MUNET connection hooked up early?
A: You sure can. Follow the instructions in question 8. One warning,
though--You should be aware that we still may be performing regular
summer maintenance on MUNET during the time before classes start
in the fall, so you can expect periodic fluctuations and outages
at any time.
Q. 29: Are there space limitations on the MUNET
Student GroupWise E-mail servers?
A: Yes. You should be aware that you can only have 50 megabytes
of email stored on student email server at one time. We ask that
you keep your email mailbox cleaned up and delete any unnecessary
email. If you wish to save attachments, save them to your C: drive.
We conduct mailbox maintenance throughout the year, and if you haven't
saved your files to your C: drive, they may be deleted due to space
limitations on the email server.
Q. 30: I have a laptop with a that came with
a internal wireless card. Will it work with the Methodist University
Wireless network?
A: If you currently have a laptop that came with an internal or
external (PCMCIA) wireless network card, you will need to find out
if it is compatible with the University's wireless access points.
The University uses wireless access points that are "B", "G"
or "B/G" compatible. If your wireless network card supports
one of these standards, then yes it will work with Methodist University
Wireless network.
Q. 31: Can you install Instant Messenger or
network paging on my computer?
A: Due to bandwidth capacity limitations and risk of spreading
viruses, we will not install, configure or support any Instant messaging
services (AOL, Hotmail etc..), network paging services or file sharing
programs on computers connected to MUNET.
Q. 32: What are Computer Services' responsibilities?
A: Computer Services' responsibilities include:
- Maintaining MUNET so as to maximize the time it is available
for all users.
- Monitoring systems to assure that individuals are not using
the system without express authority. The activities of MUNET
users may be monitored at any time to insure that the use is consistent
with the guidelines spelled out in this publication. To use a
system on MUNET is to consent to such monitoring. If such monitoring
reveals possible evidence of criminal activity or violations of
University policy, system personnel will provide the evidence
of such monitoring to both University administration and to law
enforcement officials.
- Strictly adhering to and informing our users to adhere to, copyright
laws.
- protecting the integrity of your work by providing a secure
computing environment, including network server anti-virus protection,
assuring reasonable confidentiality of correspondence, and making
backup copies of materials stored on servers.
Q 33: What are the Student's responsibilities?
A: Your responsibilities include:
- You are not authorized to install or configure such devices
to connect to MUNET which may include, but are not limited to:
wireless access points, bridges, routers, switches,
hardware and software servers, transceivers, converters, hubs,
printers, or concentrators. You are not allowed to attach anything
to our network that we don't authorize.
- NEVER INSTALL A WIRELESS ACCESS POINT, it is a violation of
the University network policy
- Installing and configuring your own printers, wireless cards,
network cards, zip drives, jazz drives, scanners and speakers
to your computer, never using another person's account.
- Never attempting to read, modify, copy, or destroy another user's
data files, diskettes or other materials without the permission
of the owner. All members of the electronic community have ownership
rights to their own intellectual work.
- Never harassing other users by altering computer software or
computer system, by propagating viruses and other damaging software,
sending malicious, annoying, or offending messages.
- Accessing your own account to read and remove mail at regular
intervals so that ample storage space remains on the systems for
all users. Each user will have an assigned storage quota for storage
of essential data.
- refraining from tying up resources by staying on the Internet
for long periods of time, or by using bandwidth hogging programs
such as Instant Messenger services or File Sharing programs. Each
user will be logged off by us after a maximum of 8 hours.
- Never allowing others to use your account and always select
passwords that cannot be guessed.
- Strictly adhering to copyright laws.
Q 34: What if I have problems and need help?
A: Call 630-7300.
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