Frequently asked questions (and answers) about the Network Redesign Project.

Q: So what's the big deal with this project? What benefits will I see once it is complete?
A: The new network will be faster, more reliable, and more secure. As a result, applications like video streaming and editing, HD videoconferencing, and VoIP (Voice Over IP), will be possible. For a list of features, see Features of the New Network. For a more in-depth document discussing the benefits of the new network, see Network Redesign Project: a Conceptual Overview.

Q: Why are you doing the building upgrades during the semester rather than the summer or winter breaks?
A: Most of the major disruptive work will be completed during Summer 2007. The Fall 2007 outages required to complete building conversions should be minimal and should enable us to complete the upgrades prior to the start of the Spring semester.

Q: How will I find out about network interruptions?
A: Emails will be sent to the college community, and the Network Upgrade Project Website will be updated periodically with information about outages and completed milestones.

Q: What new things will I be able to do with the new network?
A: Faster speeds will enable better audio/video streaming, HD videoconferenceing, VoIP, movement of large files, video editing across the network, and a host of other applications that require the kinds of features the new network will provide. For a more in-depth document discussing benefits, see Network Redesign Project: a Conceptual Overview.

Q: Can I still use a hub in my dorm/office?
A: No. Hubs will not work on the new network. For students, ITS will provide a multi-port solution. A procedure to borrow these devices will be posted during the spring semester. For employee offices, new network drops will be run to accomodate any mulit-port needs. (The cost to run these drops will be covered by ITS.) Contact the Help Desk at 5501 or by sending email to help@lafayette.edu to arrange for new drops.

Q: Will I be required to log in to the new network?
A: Yes, access to the network will require logging in using your Network ID and password. This process will also require "posture validation." Posture validation ensures that appropriate patches and anti-virus software are installed and functioning properly on your computer. Details and instructions on how this will work will be made available in the spring. NAC (Network Admission Control) will be the technology used to enable posture validation and authentication to the network, and will not be implemented until the last phase of the project (Spring 2008).

Q: Will guests be able to gain access to the network?
A: Yes, we plan on provisioning guest access for visitors to the college who do not have Network IDs. Instructions on how guests can obtain access will be posted prior to the implementation of authentication-based network access.

Q: Will I be able to access network resources from off campus that I couldn't before?
A: Yes, the new network will include VPN (Virtual Private Network) technology that will allow remote access to a variety of network resources from any off-campus Internet connection. The VPN will run on Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.

Q: I'm concerned about this new network admission control stuff. Will there be help available prior to its implementation?
A: ITS will be holding walk-in training sessions to help users learn more about NAC (Network Admission Control) and how it will work, well in advance of its implementation. Dates will be announced for the training in early Spring.

Q: Will I still need to NetReg my computer?
A: You will need to NetReg once more for the spring semester. However, Cisco's NAC, implemented by August 2008, will replace NetReg for Fall 2008 registrations.

Q: I have a device that requires a static IP address. Will that still be possible?
A: Yes, we will still be able to provision NAC exceptions and static IP addresses for those who need them. Note that the static IP address for your device will likely be different than the current address. Contact the Help Desk for more information.

Q: Will the college policy on P2P change as a result of the network upgrade?
A: No. The college policy for P2P will not change. Two relevant documents related to the use of P2P on campus are the Acceptable Use Policy and the Copyright Infringement Policy.

Q: What differences will I notice when my building is brought on to the new network?
A: We expect the transition to be seamless for the first and second phases, although you may see faster speeds and notice that your IP address has changed. Once NAC is enabled in the final phase (Spring 2008), all network access will require logging in. Instructions and information on NAC will be available in the Spring semester.

Q: Will you be blocking or limiting any applications or services as part of the new network?
A: Initially there will be no change to current bandwidth shaping practices. P2P traffic will still be shaped as it is now; all other traffic will be left alone, although prioritized; and bandwidth shaping will be consistent throughout the day. Port blocking will be left much the same as it is today, with minor changes made for major security improvements. Traffic will be allowed into our network based on the role of the users in a given virtual network. Traffic will be allowed out of most virtual networks, though a few ports will be blocked for security reasons (such as blocking spam originated by users on our network).

Q: What do you mean by virtual networks?
A: Different users require different levels of network access to different systems. The new network will determine who is connected and from where (either wired or wirelessly), and will dynamically provision them into the appropriate virtual network.

Q: Will the new network use standard RJ-45 network drops?
A: Unfortunately, no. The project only includes replacement of switching and routing gear. However, standard network cables and drops are specified for all new construction, and ITS is piloting a conversion of existing All-LAN drops to RJ-45 in McKeen Hall, Ruef Hall, and Watson Courts. Pending the succesful conversion in these buildings, we will likely proceed with converting other residence halls.

Q: As part of the new network monitoring system, will you be watching what Internet sites I visit?
A: Most network appliances and operators look only at packet headers to monitor network security. In some cases it is necessary to look deeper into packets at some user data, but this is done with the strictest respect for user privacy. Please see our Policy on Logging of User Actions for more information.

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