Quick and Easy Solutions

Introducing the STS Utility CD

Since it can be difficult to fix a computer that can´t get online, we´ve created CDs with all the programs you might need. Go to your community´s front desk and ask to check out an STS Utility CD. We update these disks before the start of each semester and have included a handy auto-loading menu so you can easily find and install the programs on the disk.

Moving to a New Hall / Changing Rooms

Network registration is specific to your building. If you move to another building you will not be able to get online until you call us and move your registration over, so give us a call and let us know.

Network Cable Unplugged / Media Disconnected

If you can´t get online check for a small icon next to your clock that looks like a cable with a red X over it. If it says Network Cable Unplugged then it is almost always because your computer is not physically connected to the network correctly. Change which port you are plugged in to and firmly replug in your network cable to your computer and to the wall port or modem. Network cables are surprisingly fragile. They are frequently defective even brand new and they can break easily when you move to a new room. If you get this message try someone else´s cable and make sure you are connecting to a working network port. Also if you have a Cable Modem, check the next section as well.

Check the Lights on the Modem

If you have a cable modem that isn´t online then you won´t be either. There are lights on the side opposite where you plug in your network cable. If the link light is on and not flashing, you should be good. If it is off along with the other lights, your modem is not plugged in. Follow the thick black cord plugged in where it says Power to the small box on the side of the modem. This should have another cord that leads to a working wall outlet. If the link light is blinking then the modem is powered but not connecting. There must be a coax (cable TV) cable connecting the modem to the cable outlet on the wall. This cable should also not be going through the AA battery sized metal cylinder on the cable outlet. This is a filter your TV should be connected to which help keep your network signal clean and fast.

The link light is blinking but all cables are plugged in right

Especially when everyone on your hall is having a problem connecting, there is a good chance a building wide problem has occurred. The modems do not always reconnect themselves, even if this problem has been fixed. If you cannot connect power cycle your modem by unplugging the power cable and plugging it back in. This will reset your modem and if it can it will get back online after a couple minutes. You may need to reboot your computer once your modem is back on-line.

The modem is on-line, or I'm in a working port, but I still can´t connect.

If your roommate can get online, and you are sure your network cable is working then there is probably something messed up on your computer keeping you from getting online. Check our Virus and Spyware section if your computer has been slow or anything unusual has been happening lately. Spyware frequently causes people to not be able to get online. Other common problems are people moving rooms as mentioned above, and network cards not being installed correctly. Make sure you have any disks that came with your computer and your network card in case these problems pop up.