Important Connection Notice from Information Technology

The Dynamic Menu displays expanding submenus. When the Dynamic Menu option is on, you will see a right pointing triangle (). When you put the mouse over the menu item, the menu will expand to the right.

If you like this feature, check the Checkbox to the left; otherwise, make sure it is unchecked.

If you use the same computer every time you visit the ITS web pages, we'll be able to remember your menu preferences!

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Minimum Computer Standards

ITS Admin (ITS use only)

Important Connection Notice from Information Technology

For Incoming Resident Students

To connect to the residence network, your computer should meet or exceed the minimum hardware and software standards.

You must also provide your own Ethernet cable. (also called a network patch cord) These can be purchased from the campus bookstore or any computer store. Get a long patch cord for your room to make sure you have enough length as needed, but a 10' or 15' cable works in most residence hall rooms. We will provide splitters or a hub if more than 2 roommates share a single wall port.

The picture on the right shows the plug on an Ethernet cable. (Get a Cat5 or better) Please don't confuse Cat5 cables with telephone cables: Cat5 cables use an 8-pin connector while phone cables use a smaller 4-pin connector.

Wired routers, wireless routers and wireless access points are not allowed on the Otterbein network. If you set one up, you are violating the Acceptable Use Policy and may face Judicial Council.

Important Message for Windows Users

The minimum Windows operating system allowed on the network will be Windows XP or newer. Any older versions of Windows will be denied access to the network due to falling out of Microsoft support.

Macintosh Users

Macintosh computers can connect to the residence network and access the same resources as Windows computers.

Windows Updates

Before connecting to the Otterbein network, Windows users should make sure the windows updates are current (this closes any vulnerabilities). Windows Updates are found at windowsupdate.microsoft.com. For instructions on how to run and configure Windows Updates to download automatically, click here.

Shared Drives & Folders

You must also disable any shared drives or folders on your computer.

Virus Protection and Spyware Remover:

If you have your own virus protection, make sure its subscription is current and virus definitions are updated. If it is a trial version or expired subscription, you may remove it and we recommend using free Microsoft Security Essentials. Important: Remove any old virus protection programs first from your control panel in the program menu or you risk corrupting your operating system which will then need repair.

The same goes for a spyware remover. Make sure you have one installed and its definitions are current. If you have Windows Vista, it came with Windows Defender. You have protection. If you have Windows XP, we recommend using Windows Defender. Microsoft Defender click here.

Visit these web pages to look into options for virus protection and spyware removers if you want to prepare your machine prior to arrival. click here.

Call Student the Student Help Desk at 823-1060 with problems or questions!!
(Located in the Campus Center)