Buying a new computer?

If you are going to purchase a new computer, we recommend you purchase from a reputable dealer or manufacturer who will provide an on site warranty service should a problem arise.

What type of cable do I need?

Wireless is the most used connection type. If you would like a faster connection then you may require one RJ-45 UTP (Ethernet) cable per student computer. It is also needed to connect your computer to the network connection in your room. This cable may be purchased from the college store.

My roommate and I each brought a computer; can we both be connected at the same time?

All residence halls have one network connection per room except for Noll, Bennett and the Residential Suites that have two connections per room. In order to have both machines connected and running, students should use switches or hubs. You will need to purchase a small 4 or 5 port 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet hub or switch for two users to access the Internet at the same time. You will also need to have an additional Ethernet cable to connect the hub or switch to the port in the residence hall. The Computer Center does not provide support for the hubs or switches themselves. If a network problem occurs, we will not debug the problem until the hub or switch is disconnected.

*It is very important that you do NOT purchase a router or an Ethernet splitter. Some sales people may try to sell you a router as a substitute for a hub or switch, but the router is not compatible with our residence hall equipment and if discovered, will be removed from the network.

Wireless access

During the summer of 2012 the Computer Center Staff performed a major overhaul on the campus wireless network, by increasing the number of wireless access point's in each dorm. If you have any issues please contact the Computer center at ext.6111. Students may not purchase and install wireless access points, routers or gateways in their room as this disrupts the normal operation of the SJC wireless network. If one is discovered, it will be removed from the network.

*You may NOT purchase a wireless access point to increase coverage. If one is discovered, it will be removed from the network.

What are my responsibilities?

See our responsibilities page.

Where do I go for help?

See our troubleshooting page.