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PennNet is the University's gateway
to a
rich and ever-expanding variety of global information resources. This document
gives an overview of how to connect to PennNet and the Internet. It covers on-campus
Ethernet and wireless connections as well as off-campus
connections. In addition, there are many computer
labs available to faculty, staff, and students.
PennNet wall outlets in campus residences, Greek houses, and
University offices provide high-speed Ethernet connections
to PennNet and the Internet. In addition to an activated Ethernet
wall outlet, Ethernet connectivity requires
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A computer with Ethernet capability (newer computers
have this capability built-in; older computers may
require a card to be added)
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An IP address and an appropriately configured TCP/IP software, which
together identifiy your computer as a site on the Internet and enable
you to use network
client
software
to access information from services (servers) anywhere on the Internet.
TCP/IP software is built-in to the operating system of Macs and Windows
PCs. IP addresses in residences are assigned dynamically each time
you connect your computer. LSPs provide fixed IP addresses for office
computers.
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A suite of network client
software (for example, Web browsing software and e-mail software)
Once the necessary hardware and software are installed and configured,
just open the appropriate network client and enter the address
of the service you wish to reach. For example, to reach the
Library, start your Web browser, enter http://www.library.upenn.edu/
in the browser's location field, and press Return.
See the Supported Products page for
information regarding the recommended basic suite of networking software
for Macintosh and Windows systems.
Wireless access is available in
Access requirements vary among locations, so check with your ITA, LSP,
or School computing organization to find out what's available and how
to participate. Some general access guidelines can be found on the Wireless
at Penn web site.
Penn faculty, staff, or off-campus students who need remote access to
the Internet need to sign up with a commercial Internet Service Provider
(ISP). Commercial ISPs are abundant now and provide fast, cost-effective
access to the Internet. Advice on choosing an ISP, information about available
services, and information on accessing restricted Penn services such as
Library databases and administrative applications via a commercial ISP
can be found at ISC Networking's remote access
Web site.
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