Internet Frequently Asked Questions
You can use whatever Operating System you like, however your Operating System must be capable of supporting DHCP. All versions of Windows since
Windows 95 support DHCP and DHCP software is available for most flavours of Unix/Linux. Apple Macintosh computers running Mac OS X support DHCP,
as do those running MacOS 8 and later. You will need an Ethernet network enabled computer. Many new computers have an on-board Ethernet adaptor.
If your computer does not have an Ethernet port, you will need to purchase an Ethernet network card. You will also need a patch cable (NOT Cross-over)
to connect your network card to the network outlet on the wall (the wall outlet uses a standard RJ-45 connector). Your computer operating system
will also need to be able to use DHCP (all versions of Windows from Windows 95 support DHCP).
Patch cables can be patch cables can be purchased from the Masterpoint Engineer. Network cards can be bought from most PC shops and cost around £15.
Yes. Most virus are contracted through e-mail attachments, however some will copy themselves onto shared folders on your computer. You must
have a virus checker installed on your computer and firewall software offers additional security from similar attacks on your computer. The
university has a site licensed virus checking software of which more details can be found on our Links page.
Your computer may have come preinstalled with antivirus software, however, you may need to configure it to receive regular updates. If you do
not have any antivirus software the university has a site license for Anti-Virus software of which more details can be found
on our Links page.
Windows XP has a firewall built in. There are also many other firewall software solutions out there and some are now included with virus checkers.
For more information please look on our Links page.
If there is a problem with your network that requires an engineer to visit your room they will be accompanied by a member of university staff. You will be given plenty of warning if this becomes necessary.
Yes, providing your e-mail uses a web interface (ie hotmail or yahoo). Outlook express will not work.
Use of VOIP software is not currently supported.
There is a 1Gb monthly cap for each connection.
Yes although if you have any problems please contact support@masterpoint.co.uk. Note:
Your internet connection is shared and as such you may encounter lag issues when gaming.
Xbox Live and PS2 Net Play will work using Windows Internet Connection Sharing through your PC, however you will need 2x Network cards and a
crossover cable to link to your console. For details on how to configure ICS click here. Note: Your internet connection is shared and as such you may encounter lag issues when gaming.
Your friends can come to your room to use your computer, however you are fully responsible for anything that is done on your computer. If they
do something that breaks the Terms and Conditions of the service whilst using your computer then YOU will be held accountable.
No. You are not permitted to connect any 'network infrastructure' equipment to the network, therefore it is not possible to connect more than
one computer.
No. The Masterpoint service is not visible from the main campus network and the running of servers is prohibited by the terms and conditions.
Please direct all other questions to: support@masterpoint.co.uk