Network Overflow
Frequently Asked Questions
|
|
Additional
Links
|
Why do we need this?
The Hope College network and its connection to the Internet
are shared resources. Just like the buildings that we all
work and study in, the network must be managed and maintained
so that it remains available and useful to all. Use of too
much of the network by an individual computer, whether intentional
or not, adversely affects every other user.
What are the limits? How much
is “too much”?
In order to keep the network healthy and functioning, CIT has
implemented a system that identifies computers that are overflowing
the network and removes them. This removal is triggered by
exceeding any of the following:
- 1000 connections per hour
- 112 megabytes of outbound (uploaded) traffic per hour
- 225 megabytes of inbound (downloaded) traffic per hour
To view a summary of this computer's recent network usage,
click here (not
accurate for systems off campus or those using DSL/cable
modems).
Note that only the amount of traffic is considered, not the type. CIT
does not block, limit, or track individual usage based on content
(gaming, file sharing, etc.).
What happens when a Network
Overflow occurs?
When a computer has caused an Overflow, it is removed from
the network. Once removed, any attempt to
access a web page
will result
in
a
message indicating
that
a Network
Overflow has taken place. The user will be provided
with details on
possible
reasons for the Overflow, and will have the ability to download
tools that may assist in resolving the problem. Once he or
she has indicated that the problems are fixed, network access
can be restored. However, if the problem has not been resolved,
the computer will again be removed from the network. Four
(4) Network Overflows by one computer in a single 24-hour period
will result
in an inability to access the network for
24
hours.
What causes a Network Overflow?
Certainly an Overflow can be caused by intentional
over-use of the resource. However, most are the result
of less malicious causes like:
- A virus
- Unapplied Windows Updates
- Spyware / adware
- Peer-to-peer file sharing programs (like Kazaa, Gnutella, and WinMX)
- Hosting games or running a game server
How can I avoid causing a Network
Overflow?
Fortunately, most Network Overflows can be avoided
by following a few simple rules-of-thumb:
- Install virus protection and keep it up to date.
CIT provides free virus protection to current Hope College
students on its
website. No matter what program you use, be sure that the “virus
definition” date is no more than 8 days old. If
you buy a new computer or someone else works on your computer,
be sure
that virus protection is installed and updated before
you connect to the network. CIT has virus protection
software available here.
- Install all available Windows Updates, especially those
listed under "Express Install". These are available from
the Windows Update website (in Internet
Explorer, click the “Tools” menu, then select “Windows
Update”). After rebooting, keep going back to the Windows
Update site for more updates until none are available. Again,
if you get a new computer or have work done on
your current system, be sure that all Windows Updates are installed
before you connect to the network. If it's not
possible to install these before connecting, be sure to do
so immediately after plugging in. Check the Windows
Update website regularly for new updates and fixes.
- Avoid downloading “free” programs (like weather
monitors and file sharing). While some free programs are safe,
many contain hidden programs, often called “spyware” or “adware”.
Not only can these programs cause a Network Overflow, they
can also send personal information about you to others.
- If you have peer-to-peer file sharing programs on your
computer, remove them. If you do not want to take them off,
at least
disable the ability for others to download your files. Remember,
too many files downloaded from your computer by others on the
Internet will cause a Network Overflow.
- Avoid hosting games or running a "game server" on your computer.
By definition, this activity requires a large amount of
bandwidth, more than is appropriate in a shared environment.
What if my computer is already
causing a Network Overflow?
If your computer has caused an Overflow,
try the following (detailed instructions for this
procedure are available
here):
- Uninstall all file sharing programs
- Restore your connection to the network
- Download
all Windows updates
- Ensure that your virus protection program is up-to-date
with the latest definitions
- Download, install, and update both Ad-Aware and Spybot
- Reboot the system in "Safe Mode"
- Run a full system virus scan
- Run Ad-Aware and remove all items found
- Run Spybot and
remove all items found
Please note that these steps will resolve
most Network
Overflow issues on most computers. However, some particularly
complex or uncommon situations may require additional
service by a technician. If you're still receiving the
messages
even after performing all the steps above, try the following:
- The manufacturer of your computer may be able to assist
you with resolving this issue. Try calling their service/support
number.
Even if your computer is no longer under warranty,
phone support may still be available, often at no
charge. Be sure to let them know that your issues
most likely involve a virus, unapplied Windows Updates,
spyware/adware, file-sharing, or games.
- There
are several local computer repair shops in the yellow
pages. Be sure that they perform all the steps listed
in the "How can I avoid a Network
Overflow?" section
above. When
you drop the system off, you may wish to provide them
with a copy of this document.
- CIT is able to provide limited assistance
on an
appointment-only basis. Please call
x7670 for
more details. Note that due to extremely
high demand, there is often a wait for an
appointment with CIT. Due to the variety
of possible causes and individual nature of each circumstance,
phone troubleshooting with CIT is not available.
|
