Frequently Asked Questions

List of Topics

  1. What is ResNet
  2. What do I need to Connect?
  3. How do I connect to ResNet?
  4. What are viruses, spyware, trojans and worms?
  5. Do I need to register again?
  6. What kind of computer should I buy?
  7. How much does connecting to ResNet cost?
  8. What if I forgot my password?
  9. How can I keep my computer from receiving a virus?
  10. How do I disable file sharing?
  11. What is an Ethernet card?
  12. Why not use modems?
  13. What is a firewall?
  14. Can someone help me?

What is ResNet?

Residential Network (ResNet) provides on-campus residents with direct connections to the campus network and the world-spanning Internet via two Ethernet connections in each residence hall room. Every resident can have their personal computer connected directly to UNLV's ResNet for Internet web browsing, email, and other activities.

What do I need to get connected to ResNet?

  1. A computer which meets minimum configurations
  2. An Ethernet card
  3. An Ethernet cable
  4. An understanding of our connection policies

How do I get connected to ResNet?

Follow the steps to get your computer connected to the Internet:

What are viruses, spyware, trojans and worms?

Viruses, spyware, trojans and worms are forms of malicious software. To find out more, refer to our Malicious Software page.

What if I registered last year, do I have to re-register again this year?

Yes, every academic year students must re-register their computers. At the beginning of the academic year, go to resnet.unlv.edu to register your computer.

I want to buy a computer. What kind should I buy?

Click here to see ResNet's purchasing recommendations.

How much does connecting to ResNet cost?

There is no fee for connecting to ResNet. Students are responsible for providing and installing their own network cards and patch cables.

What can I do if I forgot my Rebelmail username and password?

Call the Office of Information Technology's Student Help Desk at (702) 895-0761 and they can reset your password for you. Be sure to have your Rebelcard handy when you call.

How can I keep my computer from receiving a virus?

There is a three fold approach to protecting yourself from viruses.

  1. DO NOT use file sharing programs like LimeWire, Kazaa, or Azureus to download music or software unless you are absolutely certain as to the legitimacy of the source. Media piracy is a frequent source of malicious software.
  2. Beware of the attachments you open in email and in instant messages as these among the more common sources of malicious software
  3. Keep an up to date anti-virus program on your computer and use it to scan your computer periodically

How do I disable my file sharing?

Visit our file sharing page for information

What is an Ethernet card?

To connect your computer to the ResNet, you need a piece of computer hardware called an Ethernet card. Sometimes known as a Network Interface Card (NIC) or network adapter, the Ethernet card translates the messages from the network into a form that your computer can understand.

Where can I use an Ethernet card?

All UNLV Residence Hall Rooms are capable of being hooked up to ResNet. When you leave Campus Housing, your computer's network card may be used on an Ethernet network, with a cable modem, or DSL.

How much does an Ethernet card cost?

Ethernet cards can cost between $20 and $200. As with anything else, you can buy a really cheap card and it may work, but you get what you pay for.

Where can I get one?

If the recommended network cards are not available in your area, they are available in Las Vegas or by mail order.

Why not use modems?

  1. Modems connect to the Internet through phone lines; on the other hand, Ethernet cards provide an always-on direct connection.
  2. You and your roommate share one phone line for both voice and modems--while you are on your modem the phone line cannot be used for anything else
  3. The use of modems interferes with phone use by other residents due to the limited number of trunk lines.
  4. Busy signals.
  5. Very slow compared to a direct Internet connection
  6. Monthly ISP charges.
  7. Graphic web browsing is not available from UNLV with a modem

What is the purpose of the firewall?

There is limited capacity through the network to the internet. Using a firewall helps to keep the usage within capacity limits.

Can someone assist me in connecting my computer?

If you still have questions or problems after consulting the instructions and FAQs, the Student Affairs Technology Help Desk can be contacted at (702) 895-1994. More information can be found on our assistance page.

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