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Using Windows XP

Trouble Connecting to the Network Using Windows XP?

Your computer is connected to the Simmons network by a network cable. This cable looks similar to a telephone cable, except that it is fatter and the connector is wider.

Network cables are secured with a plastic tab, but they can sometimes become unplugged from their sockets. Unplugging the cable and plugging it back in can solve a large number of network problems:

Unplug the cable from the back of your computer by squeezing the plastic tab on the connector and pulling it away from your computer, as you would unplug a telephone cable.

Plug the cable back in by pushing it into the slot until the plastic tab clicks to lock the cable in place. Do not force the cable - it should go in easily.

Follow the cable to the other end, where it connects into the wall plate. Unplug the cable and plug it back in.

Restart your computer.

If you still cannot connect to the Internet, choose Start and then Control Panel. Select the Network and Internet Connections option, and then click on Network Connections. Look at the icon next to Local Area Connection.

If there is a red X on the icon, then your computer is not detecting any connection to the Simmons network. This is almost always a problem with your Ethernet cable. If you are in a dorm room, you can test this by trying your roommate's cable. If you can connect with hers, then the problem is your network cable. You can purchase a new Ethernet cable for less than 10 dollars at most computer stores, or at the Simmons College bookstore. Staff using Simmons-owned computers should call x2222 and ask the Help Desk for a new cable.

If there is no red X on the icon, then your computer was able to connect to the Simmons network. Double-click on the Local Area Connection icon and select the Support tab at the top of the window. Look at the Address Type: field in this window. If this says anything other than Assigned by DHCP, then there is a connection problem between your computer and the Technology network servers. Please call x2222 and choose the option to hear the college's network status. If the recording states that the network is functioning normally, please call x2222 again and choose to speak to a Help Desk representative to report the problem.

If the Address Type is Assigned by DHCP, then your computer is connected to the college network. The problem with your connectivity is likely with the server you are trying to connect to. If you notice that you cannot connect to a particular server or set of resources, please call x2222 and choose the option to hear the college's network status. If the recording states that the network is functioning normally, please call x2222 again and choose to speak to a Help Desk representative to report the problem.