laptop + internet confusion :(

vicissitudes
Mon, 23 Jul 2007 19:58:52 +0000

-So does that mean that Cal gives FREE internet service in the dorm rooms IF you have an ethernet cable?



Yes. People usually don’t bring a router unless they’re crazy EECS people.



-And if you want to use it around campus you don’t need to buy any internet service (example: dial-up, aol, etc) because the whole campus is wireless?



Yes. It’s called airbears and if you’re anywhere on campus you’ll likely get a good signal.



-Also, what is a wireless router and an ethernet cable?



Basically, if you are on DSL and you have a modem, it can only connect to one computer. A router allows you to connect multiple computers to that connection. A wireless router allows you to get wireless signal from that connection and thus, you can connect to your in-room connection wirelessly. But I think it’s easier to just get a cable and directly connect to your in-room connection, and yes, you can connect multiple computers to your in-room connection. They provide hubs and stuff.



-How secure & safe is the free anti-virus software ResComp provides during Welcome week?



It’s pretty good from what I’ve seen. You get some occasional annoying messages blocking some strange incoming connections, but it’s pretty secure.



Also, (i know, a lot of questions) if i bring my own printer, will any printer brand hook up to my laptop? Does it need to be the same like HP laptop & printer?



Most printers should hook up via usb, so unless you have a ■■■■■■■■ printer that doesn’t use usb or a super-■■■■■■■■ laptop that doesn’t have usb ports…yeah it should work.

I think a wireless router is excessive because there is wireless internet in the dorms as well…you just may not get it in your room. But if you’re in your room, just hook up via ethernet cable.