Fixed connection

Computers in a fixed secure location can be assigned a network address that will remain the same while at that location. The network address can also be a public address if required so the computer will be visible on the Internet, though you will need a good reason for requiring a public address. Secure locations include staff offices or secure workshops and laboratories. All computers with a fixed connection must be registered by your schools computing officer.

The only supported option for campus fixed connections is Windows XP SP2 running the Common Desktop; we can also help with advice for systems running Mac OS X and Linux operating systems.

Once registered simply follow the instructions on setting up your computer to get connected. If you are staff or a researcher requiring a fixed connection you can contact the helpline and ask for a Network Technician to come out and configure your machine for you.

Who can have a fixed connection?

There are certain requirements that determine who can have a fixed connection on the campus network, i.e. ensuring that the computer is in a secure area, maintained so as not to provide a risk to other users from viruses and crackers, and that someone is accountable for abuse and misuse from the computer.

  • Staff machines can have a fixed connection.
  • Postgraduate (research) students and Staff can register their personal machines but only in their office and with permission from their Head of School. This is at the digression of the schools computing officer.
  • Undergraduate and Postgraduate (teaching) students are NOT allowed to connect machines directly to the campus network, instead they can use the wireless service or campus docking points to connect personal machines.

Your local computing officer now performs machine registrations. See here for a list of computing officers.

Roving Facility

A computer registered for a fixed connection can also use the roving facility which allows you to move your machine anywhere on campus and it will be assigned a dynamic address automatically, e.g. to give presentations in a lecture theatre. When you return to your office your computer will be reassigned it's fixed network address. You can request roving support during registration.