Connecting to the Internet
UMass maintains a high speed wired network that extends to every building on campus. This is a fast, secure, Ethernet network. It supports access to the Internet as well as access to network resources on campus, such as UMass e-mail, University servers, departmental shared folders, and network printers.
Faculty and staff can connect network-ready computers and printers to the wired network. Network-ready means that the computer or printer has an Ethernet NIC (network interface card) installed in it. If you are not sure whether your device is networkable, call or e-mail the IT Help Desk (7-7220). We will send a network consultant to assess your computer or printer and determine if it is compatible with our network.
To connect to the wired network you will also need an available network jack. Almost every office, laboratory, and conference room on campus has at least one network jack in it. Available means that no other device is already using that jack. The jack should be no more than thirty feet away from the computer or printer you intend to connect. If you cannot find an available jack in your area, call or e-mail the IT Help Desk (7-5220). We will send a network consultant to assess your space. If no jack is available, we can install a new jack for you at a nominal cost.
Specialized network devices, those other than computers and printers, cannot be connected to the University network without explicit permission from IT. Such devices include hubs, switches, routers, and wireless access points. Many of these devices are intended for home use and are not compatible with the UMass network. These devices can conflict with our network and disrupt access for other users. IT will remove from the UMass network any device that interferes with the normal operation of the network.
All computers on the UMass network must have valid up-to-date anti-virus software installed before the computer can be put on the network [see the Virus Protection link on the left for more information.] If your computer does not have current anti-virus software, we can install a copy of McAfee VirusScan, the University-supported anti-virus software.
The UMass network does not support Windows 95, Windows ME, or Windows XP Home.
If you have a device that you would like installed on the UMass wired network, please fill out the Ethernet Access Request Form and submit it to the IT Help Desk. You can submit the form on paper or electronically. After we review your request, we will send a consultant to your office to install your machine on the network. There is no charge for this service. If you need an Ethernet cable, we will provide one for you at no cost.