To connect to the ResNet network, you will need 2 important pieces of
equipment; a Network Interface Card (NIC) and a
Category 5 Ethernet
Cable. For many newer machines, the NIC is already built into the
computer. However, older computers will require you to purchase a
separate card that can be installed inside of your computer. This
service is provided by our staff for all students living in the
Residence Halls.
Network
Card
All residence halls and Greek Court chapter houses at NC State
are wired with 10/100BaseT (also known as twisted pair) Ethernet.
All adapters must have a 10BaseT, 10/100BaseT, or 10/100/1000BaseT Ethernet ("gigabit") connection.
ResNet is beginning to upgrade to100 mbit connectivity in several
residence halls, though 10BaseT adapters will continue to function
effectively.
Purchase only an Ethernet adapter that has a 10BaseT, 10/100BaseT, or gigabit connection!
Ethernet Adapter Recommendations
The type of adapter card appropriate for your computer depends on
the model of your computer. You will also need an Ethernet
cable to connect to ResNet.
For other types of computers, please contact
ResNet.
Purchasing Information The NCSU
Bookstores' Computer Connections department (919-515-3400) stocks
Ethernet adapters and cables. ResNet will
install all of our recommended Ethernet cards for free, regardless
of where they are purchased. However, during the first week or two
in the fall you may need to wait several days for an appointment.
We strongly recommend buying your Ethernet adapter from a vendor
who will accept returns. Also, be sure the warranty allows enough
time to connect and test your adapter before the warranty expires.
While we strongly discourage you from purchasing an adapter not
recommended by ResNet, if you do, be certain that it
- Supports 10BaseT, 10/100BaseT, or gigabit, and
- has an appropriate driver for the operating system you plan
to use.
ResNet Staff may not be able
to assist you with Ethernet adapters not recommended by ResNet. There
may be computers that do not function well with a given adapter. This
is more often the case with older computers and with computers that
are intended primarily for home use. There are also some Ethernet
adapters that consistently don't work on our network. Please be sure
to see our list of recommended adapters before purchasing one.
In addition to making sure you have the right type of 10BaseT, 10/100BaseT, 10/100/1000 Base T
Ethernet adapter and cable for your computer, make sure your computer
meets the
minimum computer requirements
for use on ResNet.
Network Cable
To connect to ResNet you will need to
purchase an Ethernet cable to connect your Ethernet adapter to the
wall jack. The NCSU Bookstores carry cables in several lengths. The
brand of cable they carry is known to work on ResNet - we have occasionally
had problems with other brands, but any brand should work.
Use only cables rated for Category 5 network use -- do
not attempt to use a telephone cord or Category 3 cable with
your Ethernet adapter.
The images below show the difference between Ethernet cables and
phone cables. The plug of the Ethernet cable is about four millimeters
(~ 1/8 of an inch) wider than the plug of a phone cable. An Ethernet
cable also has eight wires while a phone cable only has four or
sometimes two.
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