Network - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Network Connections in MSU Residence Halls

Navigation

Select a link below to jump to that section:

What Networks Are Available In MSU Residence Halls?

MSU has both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (eduroam and MSUnet 3.0) networks available in its residence halls. MSU IT highly recommends using the eduroam wireless network whenever possible as it is the most flexible option. The process differs depending on the Operating System (OS) of the device you're connecting. Choose the appropriate article below for your device:

If you are unable to use eduroam for one or more of your devices, please see this article for instructions how to register a device to use MSUnet 3.0 or a wired connection.

Back to Top

Am I Required To Use Ethernet On My Computer?

No. MSU recommends using wireless, and specifically eduroam, whenever and wherever possible.

If you have a device that must use a wired connection, then ethernet is there as an option. Connections are available in residence hall rooms, some university apartments, and a number of public locations across campus like the MSU Library and classroom podiums. You will need a Category 5 or newer twisted pair RJ-45 Ethernet cable (Not an RJ-45 "cross-over" cable). The MSU Tech Store has ethernet cables for sale, or you can purchase them online or from any number of retailers.

What If I Can't Find My Ethernet Port?

Contact your building's facilities management team by using their Maintenance Request Form.

Back to Top

How Fast Should My Internet Connection Be?

Residence Halls and University Apartments can obtain speeds of 100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps

Back to Top

Can I Use A Networking Device To Hook Up Multiple Devices To My Residence Hall Connection?

Because wireless is available throughout our residence halls, a personal wireless network is not recommended and is likely to cause interference to wireless network service for yourself and others in your vicinity. Note that that if the router, hub, or switch is improperly connected and interfering with the campus network, you may lose your network access. Please contact the product's manufacturer for support with these devices.

When using a switch, hub, or access point, you will need to register each computer through the DHCP Registration Site (link).

In the case of a router (wireless or wired), you will only need to register via the DHCP Registration Site (link) once from any of the computers that are connected to the router. Be advised, however, that the person who registers the connection over DHCP will be liable for the activities of any computer or system connected to that router.

Back to Top

May I Connect A Playstation, Xbox Or Other Gaming System To My Network Port?

The use of gaming systems is not expressly prohibited on the residence hall network but MSU does not provide support or troubleshooting for their use.

All game systems must be registered to be used on the MSU campus network. If the device does not have a built-in browser, you can log in to DHCP and register the gaming device manually using the same instructions as for other devices.

Back to Top

Can I Host Gaming Services That Require A Port To Be Opened?

No, restricted ports will not be opened to allow for use by gaming services

Back to Top

Are There Restrictions On How I Use My Network Connection?

Yes. All network activity at MSU is governed by the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP).

Back to Top

Print Article

Related Services / Offerings (1)

The Networking Team takes on the critical role of upholding and enhancing the university's expansive wired network infrastructure, which includes providing internet service to Merit network. Their responsibilities span across the entire network ecosystem, covering the campus core, building edge, datacenter core, and satellite networks. This complex network management facilitates the seamless flow of substantial data, meeting the modern campus community's ever-increasing demands for connectivity and data access.