Getting Your Computer Connected at UCSD

Before you start, you'll need:

  • A computer that meets minimum requirements
  • A "straight through" type Ethernet cable (Cat-5), or a wireless 802.11b or 802.11b-compatible network adapter.
  • A UCSD Network username and password

Getting Started

  1. Most computers come with the default configuration settings already in place. If you are not able to connect using the steps listed below, please consult our Network Documentation section.
  2. If you are connecting using an Ethernet cable, make sure it is plugged into your computer and the appropriate Ethernet connection. This will either be in one of the ports (1-4, not the blue console port) on the side of the black Cisco modem, or a direct Ethernet port in your room. The extra ports in rooms and the common areas are not automatically activated. If you need additional active ports please call ResNet at (858) 534-3227 and ask to borrow a network switch.
  3. If you are connecting via wireless, make sure the wireless antenna is on. Double-click on the wireless icon on the system tray on the bottom right, and connect to an access point located in your building. An example is the access point called "resnet-earth200" in ERC Earth.
  4. Familiarize yourself with the ResNet Acceptable Use Policy.
  5. Using the computer you wish to register, click on the Register Your Connection link. Be sure to be at the physical location where you will be using the computer. Registration can take up to 30 minutes.

For more information, please visit the Networking Documentation.

Getting Network Devices Connected at UCSD

In accordance with our Acceptable Use Policy, network devices such as wireless routers must be registered with ResNet. Registering devices such as gaming systems can be registered through email. See below for more details.

Wireless routers or access points can only be registered by coming to our front desk. When you bring in your router, make sure to bring in your laptop as well. Once you register your device with us, we will need you to retrieve some information for us. Select the appropriate link below to find out how to retrieve this information. Registration of network devices usually go through within 48 hours of us receiving all of the information, but may take longer at the beginning of the quarter. For questions, please contact us at (858) 534-3227 or resnet@ucsd.edu.

  1. Wireless Routers/Access Point
  2. Web Browser Enabled devices

    3. These devices can be registered by using the in device browser. The browser should redirect to the ResNet registration page. Devices such as PS3, PSP, iPhone, iPod Touch, and Smartphones have this capability. If you have any problems please contact the help desk by email or phone.

  3. Game Systems

    4. We currently do not provide documentation on every game device, but we have provided some helpful links below. If you email us at resnet@ucsd.edu with the information below using your UCSD account, we will be able to register your device for you. Please make sure that your device stays connected to the network while we process your registration.

    The following information is needed:
    1. Location of dorm
    2. Game System (e.g., XBox, Wii, iPhone, etc.)
    3. WAN MAC Address (xxxx.xxxx.xxxx)
    4. IP Address of device (a correct temporary IP address given by ResNet should be 172.17.xxx.xxx)
    5. Phone Number

Helpful Links for getting device information