ResNet
Servers prohibited on the ResNet network
Servers are not allowed on the the ResNet network, primarily due to the security risks involved to the University's network. Also, servers can consume excessive network resources and bandwidth.
Types of services not allowed include, but are not limited to:
- Web servers
- FTP servers
- Windows File and Print sharing (if not password-protected)
- Kazaa, Morpheus, Napster, Gnutella, iMesh, and other file sharing applications set up as servers
- High-bandwidth applications
Any service that you can reach on your computer from outside your room can be reached from anyone else on the Internet.
All operating systems have some vulnerabilities; when you offer services, you frequently expose your computer to exploits from hackers. Hackers often target computers at the University; they probe for vulnerabilities in various operating systems U-wide on a near-daily basis.
Gnutella, Kazaa, Morpheus, and other Napster-like applications use a high amount of network bandwidth. This often interferes with the normal operation of the University computer network or computing systems. Copyright issues may also apply.
Connection to the University network is a privilege, not a right. You will be held responsible for activities generated from your computer. See ResNet Terms and Conditions for details.
Common Questions and Answers
Is it OK to transfer files to/from other U students, as long as U policy is followed?Yes, you can do this with file sharing. The ResNet policy is that no anonymous file sharing is allowed. Be sure to use strong passwords, and make sure you know who you are sharing with. There is always some security risk involved in file sharing. File Sharing Guidelines
Is it acceptable to download media for my own use, as long as it complies with all copyright laws and U policies?
Yes. But, please note a few cautions.
- Make sure you scan any downloaded files with current AntiVirus software
- Make sure the settings of any music/file-sharing program you might use are not allowing sharing or super node usage (they are both allowed by default on many programs).
- Be aware that many of the music/file-sharing programs install "spyware" that allows them to monitor what sites you browse and possibly much more. An Internet search of your program name and the word "spyware" should give you some information.
Is running a server acceptable, if it uses no upload bandwidth and only allows connected users to send files to the server?
No, you are not to run any servers/services on your ResNet connection. Your ResNet connection is intended to provide service only to you. You agreed to this when you signed up for ResNet service.
Is file transferring with outside connections prohibited?
You may transfer files from outside sites. You may not allow other sites to transfer files to/from you.