Resnet Frequently Asked Questions

What is ResNet?  ResNet is short for Residential Networking.  ResNet software includes the Novell networking software to connect your computer to the Holy Cross network and the GroupWise email software. Machines purchased from the College Bookstore are already setup with ResNet.

Who do I contact for ResNet questions?  Contact the Help Desk for all technical questions relating to ResNet and your computer.  Contact the College Bookstore for all questions relating to purchasing a computer.

Do I have to purchase a PC from the Bookstore to use the network in my room?  No.  The Holy Cross ResNet program also allows students full network and internet access from their dorm rooms using desktop and laptop computers brought from home.  Before installing ResNet, make sure your machine meets the minimum requirements for connection and you purchase and install a network interface card (NIC) or wireless card.  Connection to the network is not guaranteed unless it is a machine purchased through Holy Cross.

What are Network Interface Cards (NIC) and wireless cards and why do I need one?  Holy Cross computers connect to a Local Area Network or LAN using ethernet.  This provides a constant connection to the network and internet at speeds faster than modems.  A NIC or wireless card must be installed in your computer for access; it is not the same as a modem.  The preferred method for acquiring a NIC or wireless card is to have it pre-installed in your computer when you buy it.  The type of NIC you want is a 10/100 base T ethernet card for a twisted pair cable connection.  The type of wireless card you want is a g/b.  The card we have tested that works well is the ORiNOCO 11 Mbps Gold 802.11b/g Wireless PC Card.

I have a Macintosh machine.  Can I install ResNet?  Yes.  We support ResNet network setup on Macintosh machines provided they meet the minimum requirements for connection. Most Macintosh models since the Power PC have onboard ethernet and do not require the purchase of a separate network interface card (NIC). Wireless cards for the Macintosh are called AirPort cards and many laptops will include these as standard.  If your laptop is “AirPort Ready” this means a wireless card can be installed but does not mean that is has been. Check your documentation to assure you have a network or wireless card installed. 

Can I use a modem in my room to connect to the network instead of ResNet?  At the present time, the only remote connection available to all Holy Cross users via modem is network drive access using NetStorage and email using GroupWise WebAccess and your own Internet Service Provider.  We do not provide any dial-in network access or telephone internet services.  Of course, you may use your modem and chosen internet service provider from your room if you wish.

How do I connect my personal computer to the Holy Cross network?   After making sure your machine meets the minimum requirements, the Res/Net software is available on the Holy Cross Software Installation page.  ResNet installation information will be distributed to all First-year students on move-in day in the Hogan Campus Center. You may also get your ResNet installation information any time after classes start at the Help Desk in Fenwick Building, Room B-21. Remember: NIC's and wireless cards must be installed prior to installing the ResNet software.

How much does ResNet cost?  There are no costs or fees for any network, internet, or email accounts and usage at Holy Cross.  There may be personal expenses, such as upgrades to meet our minimum requirements or the purchase and installation of a NIC or wireless card for network connection. Remember, these are personal hardware additions to your machine for your choice to use ResNet, not a Holy Cross fee or cost.

Who installs the ResNet software? Each student will be able to install the ResNet software themselves using the instructions provided. After making sure your machine meets the minimum requirements, the Res/Net software is available on the Holy Cross Software Installation page.  ResNet installation information will be distributed to all First-year students on move-in day in the Hogan Campus Center. You may also get your ResNet installation information any time after classes start at the Help Desk in Fenwick Building, Room B-21. Remember: NIC's and wireless cards must be installed prior to installing the ResNet software.

If I get a computer later do I have to wait until next year for ResNet?  At any time during the year you will be able to install the ResNet software using the ResNet installation information.  After making sure your machine meets the minimum requirements, the Res/Net software is available on the Holy Cross Software Installation page.  Remember: NIC's and wireless cards must be installed prior to installing the ResNet software.

If I was networked already last year at Holy Cross, will I have to do anything for next year?  No, all network lines are activated, so you should be able to plug your computer in and go. However, if you have made changes to your system over the break such that it no longer works, please contact the Help Desk to schedule an appointment with your RCC. 

Why can't I be guaranteed a successful ResNet connection on my home computer? Many brands of 'home' computers are not meant to be connected to a local area network. They are instead meant for home use, usually with a modem to connect to the Internet. The brands change continually. We know that some models of IBM Aptivas and Compaq Presarios will not network.  The Dell computers sold at the College Bookstore are office style machines configured specifically for use on our network. They are the same machines Holy Cross purchases from Dell for all faculty and staff use. They come in 'ready to go'. Just plug them in to the jack in your residence hall room and you're on the College network and the Internet.  For these, and other reasons found on the Bookstore's web pages, we recommend that if you purchase a computer for use at Holy Cross, you purchase one through the College Bookstore. We are not in the business of selling computers; we merely wish to make student network connections as easy as possible.

How does computer support differ for me if I don't buy a computer through the Bookstore? First, if you purchase your computer through the Bookstore you do not have to install the ResNet software. Your computer is ready to go "out of the box" -- network connection and all!  Second, if your computer crashes and needs to be restored, ITS can do this for you. Non-Bookstore purchased computers will be referred to an external vendor for recovery.  Third, we guarantee network connectivity during your years at Holy Cross.  Past experience has shown that not all 'home computers" can be networked successfully. We know that the Dells purchased through the Bookstore are network ready.