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IT Services > Students > HallNet > Got a Problem? > Frequently Asked Questions

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HallNet

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

1. Can I install a Wireless Access Point in my room in halls?

2. I have a Linux computer, can I connect it to the network?

3. I have a Macintosh computer, can I connect it to the network?

4. I have an unsupported Operating System, can I connect it to the network?

5. What is the Individual File Store (U: drive)?

6. How do I back up my vital coursework?

7. What is Group File Store and how do I connect?

8. Why doesn't my FTP client connect and upload to external servers?

9. I have a virus and can not disinfect my computer. What can I try?

10. How can I check my HallNet registration?

11. I have Google Notebook installed, can I take online tests via Learn?

We also have a separate page of Google Mail Frequently Asked Questions.

1. Can I install a Wireless Access Point in my room in halls?

   IT Services are constantly deploying new wireless networking equipment and improving wireless coverage across campus. However, even so, some University Halls do not yet have wireless networking provided by the University (eduroam). In these locations it is acceptable for students to install their own wireless access points in their room provided they follow these guidelines:

   • The wireless access point must be secured using at least WPA PSK (preferably WPA2).

   • The wireless key / passphrase must contain both letters and numbers.

   • Users must not let other people (even other students) use their wireless access point.

   • If the access point has the ability to automatically scan for the best channel, use this feature.

   • If the access point doesn't have the ability to scan for channels, use channel 1, 6, or 11.

   • If the access point has the ability to adjust the power level, turn down the power so that the SSID can not be 'picked up' by wireless devices outside of the flat / room.

2. I have a Linux computer, can I connect it to the network?

   The only systems we fully support are Windows and Macintosh OS X (versions supported by Apple only). We do have some Unsupported Linux instructions. However, if we detect problems caused by software or hardware, we may have to disconnect your socket to protect the service to other users. Additionally you may not be able to access all of the services offered.

3. I have a Macintosh computer. Can I connect it to the Network?

   Providing it uses a Macintosh OS X version supported by Apple, follow the Macintosh OS X Guide.

4. I have an unsupported Operating System. Can I connect it to the Network?

   Please see our Expert Guide for other operating systems.

5. What is the Individual File Store (U: drive)?

   At login when using a computer in a lab or on the Hall Network Service, your Individual File Store will be mapped to the U: drive. It is, quite simply, file store located on a central service for staff and students to access from most locations, and a variety of systems on campus. You can use your Individual File Store to save your work and one advantage is that you can use it to save any files that are too large to fit onto a floppy disk. Initially each student is allocated 250MB of Individual File Store space, but if you think you need more space please discuss with our Service Desk who will be happy to consider your request. Note that you can also store documents using Google Docs at http://docs.student.lboro.ac.uk/.

6. How do I back up my vital course work?

   It is very important to back up your course work. If you should lose it, you will have to re-do the work! Use your Individual File Store or use Google Docs at http://docs.student.lboro.ac.uk/.

7. What is Group Filestore and how do I connect?

   Refer to our Group Filestore Information web pages - it allows students (and staff) to share information when working on a project.

8. Why doesn't my FTP client connect and upload to external servers?

   HallNet disables inbound connections and this makes the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) client inoperable. FTP clients on the Hall Network Service make connections to external servers, who then try to make inbound connections with the FTP client. This can be remedied by configuring the FTP client to work in PSAV Transfer Mode.

   For Passive Mode to work however, the server you are trying to connect to should also support Passive Mode (it is rare that they do not support PSAV). Occasionally you may find that a server does not support PSAV, in which case your PSAV configured FTP client will not work, and you need to contact the server administrators for the server you are trying to establish a FTP connection with for further support, information, and advice.

9. I have a virus and cannot disinfect my computer. What can I try?

   Come to the PC Clinic.

10. How can I check my HallNet registration?

    HallNet Registration System.

    Check / Change HallNet Registration.

11. I have Google Notebook installed, can I take on-line tests via Learn?

    No, due to incompatibilty between Google and the University's CAA testing facility, accessed via Learn.

    We recommend that on-line assessments are taken from an IT Services managed computer lab on campus.