Networking

The Department has an extensive network, supporting hundreds of nodes.

General

1. If you purchase a new computer, do NOT just plug it into the network without first discussing it with Larry. Scott can relay the need to Larry if necessary. Proper network infrastructure planning requires knowing what is connected and where! When you get a new computer, have in mind a name or two for the computer, so that the registration of the computer can be done for you quickly.
2. Don't leave streaming media players (RealPlayer, QuickTime, Windows Media Player, etc.) running when you're not at the computer. Streaming media do place a load on the network, so judicious use of these new technologies can allow all users to enjoy and get work done. Abuse of this facility can easily be monitored on the network and repeated abuse can result in restriction of network privileges.
3. Laptop users: please discuss your connectivity needs with Larry.
4. If you experience a network problem, please try another network application to see if the problem is the program or something deeper. For instance, if Eudora gives you an error regarding the network, try using your web browser to access the dept'l or UofA web servers. If this fails, you know that the problem isn't our mail server (rarely is) nor is it your copy of Eudora. The problem can still be on your computer (trying web browsing from another computer can give info here), but make a couple of quick tests, note all error messages (full text, please), and send a detailed e-mail (or leave a detailed phone message). Taking these first quick steps can help us cut down on response time and quicken your return to productivity.

Macintosh-specific

1. If you don't need to share files from your Mac, turn off File Sharing (Scott can instruct you on this.). This does not affect your ability to access Dept'l shares or your printers.
2. Turn off Web sharing on newer Macs. You don't need it. If you want to publish web pages, ask Scott for space (conditions may apply). Do not use Web Sharing on the Mac.
3. If your Mac is on the network, it must have anti-viral software. We will install it for you. While Macs are less susceptible to virii and worms, they are susceptible to macro virii (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and can even act as carriers. Don't get a bad name with your correspondents: have us install antiviral software and enjoy the moral high ground!

Windows-specific

1. If you do not need to share files or printers from your computer, turn it off in the Networking Control Panel. If you need to share files, consult with Scott on how best to configure your share so only your intended collaborators have access.
2. If your computer is on the network, it must have anti-viral software. We can install it for you. Windows boxes are susceptible to some of the most virulent and destructive virii, worms, Trojan horses, etc. ever developed. These worms can span the globe in minutes (remember Anna Kournikova?)! Don't get a bad name with your correspondents: have us install antiviral software and enjoy the moral high ground!

Linux/AIX/Solaris/IRIX/OpenBSD/other UNIX flavour

1. If you are trying to share files only occasionally among UNIX boxes, scp or sftp are the preferred methods. More frequent access benefits from NFS shares and mounts. See Scott for details.
2. If you are trying to share files with Windows boxes, consider putting them on the Dept'l file server (jeeves) or ask Scott about SAMBA.
3. If you are trying to share files with Macs, consider putting them on the Dept'l file server (macsnap or jeeves).