Our approach to Network
Connectivity:
Currently, Wells tries to
keep the network as open and free as possible. So, we do not restrict
what kind of computer can be used on our network in the dorm areas.
You can run Microsoft based PCs, Macintosh, Linux and even some game boxes.
However, with freedom comes responsibility. You are responsible for
your computer's maintenance and you are required to make sure your computer
is not being a nuisance to other users. Because of the wide variety
of computer issues, we only guarantee the Ethernet port functions in each
dorm room. We will be glad to test out the port and our authentication
system to make sure it functions with a properly configured computer.
We will assist you with connectivity issues but we reserve the right to
limit the depth of assistance, especially when we suspect that exotic malware
is the cause of connectivity problems. We also monitor the network
for excessive resource usage or virus activity. If we detect your
computer has a problem, you MUST fix it or you will not be allowed to use
the services. (We can assist if you don't know how to resolve the
problem)
Computer Recommendations:
Lots of people ask us for
recommendations on what to buy. We still don't recommend a specific
computer (they change too fast). However, these are guidelines that
you may want to use when you are purchasing one.
-
Consider a laptop, not a desktop
computer since they are more flexible. You may also want to get a
service plan on it too in case it is dropped/damaged.
-
Get a WiFi card or make sure
it's included since there are hot spots on campus but also get a long network
cable (15-25ft). There are some WiFi hot spots but some areas
such as the dorms only have wired Ethernet jacks
-
Get Microsoft Office, not just
"Works" that sometimes is bundled with computers.
-
Make sure the Anti Virus has
a current subscription to it (most subscriptions run out in a year).
-
Bring a jumpdrive to plug into
the USB port of the computer for backing up files. That way, if the
worst happens, at least you can still hand in assignments..
-
Bring a printer. We have
centralized printing, but sometimes it's nice to save a walk and print
in your dorm room.
-
Make sure your computer has
recovery CDs (and the licenses). Should the worst happen, it's
good to have installation media so you have options when it comes to servicing
or rebuilding.
-
Currently, we discourage but
don't yet prohibit personal WiFi routers in the dorms since they tend to
interfere with each other. WiFi routers are prohibited in areas
that interfere with Wells College wireless equipment such as Long library
or the Stratton building. We reserve the right to prohibit use of
a router anywhere on campus if it is misconfigured or becomes a nuisance.
Our opinion:
If buying a Microsoft computer,
you may want to stay a generation behind on the OS but stay current with
hardware. For example, if ordering your computer, get the recommended
configuration for Vista, but order it with XP software instead. That
way, XP will run very fast today but if you have a need for Vista in the
future, you can always upgrade to it.
Last updated 07/29/2007
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