Information Technology Services - Computing, Networking and Storage
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Connecting to ResNet - Mac OS X

ResNet, USC's residential network, provides users with network connectivity in residence halls, Leavey Library, and some academic buildings. This document will guide you through the process of getting started with USC's residential network.

What You'll Need Before Connecting
To gain access to ResNet, you'll need the following:

  • USC username and password
  • Ethernet card installed in your computer. This card provides the jack used to plug the cable into the computer. If your computer does not have an Ethernet card installed, refer to your Ethernet card's installation instructions before proceeding.
  • RJ45 network cable

Configuring Your Network Preferences

  1. From the Apple menu, select System Preferences.
    Result: The System Preferences window appears (see Figure 3).

    osx_preferences.jpg
    Figure 3: System Preferences Window

  2. Click the Network icon.
    Result: The Network window appears (see Figure 4).

    osx_network1.jpg
    Figure 4: Network Window

  3. If settings appear to be grayed out, you will need to authorize yourself as an Administrator. To do so, click the Lock icon at the bottom left of the Network window.
    Result: The Authenticate window appears (see Figure 5).
  4. Type an Administrator username and password. If you are not an Administrator of the machine, you will need to have one unlock Network Preferences for you.
  5. Once you've successfully unlocked Network Preferences, they will appear in black. You can now continue with the configuration.

    osx_authenticate.jpg
    Figure 5: Authenticate Window

  6. Open the Network window. Select your Ethernet card from the Show dropdown menu.
  7. Click the TCP/IP tab.
    Result: TCP/IP settings will appear (see Figure 6).
  8. Under the Configure dropdown menu, select Using DHCP.
  9. Click the Apply Now button in the lower-right-hand corner of the Network Preferences window.
  10. Close the System Preferences window.

    osx_network.jpg
    Figure 6: TCP/IP Settings

You can now plug your computer into a ResNet jack. In most ResNet wired dorms or apartments there is one phone jack and one ResNet jack per resident. Phone jacks are labeled PHONE and ResNet jacks are labeled NET.

Once you open a web browser application (i.e., Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari), you should be automatically taken to the Registering for ResNet web page (https://netreg.usc.edu/). Enter your USC username and password and click submit. A success message will appear to notify you that your MAC address/Ethernet address has been registered. You are now ready to use ResNet.

Getting Help
To get help with your ResNet Connection, contact Housing Maintenance at 213-740-4646.



Last updated: Thursday, June 26, 2008, 11:52AM PDT