Connect Service
Connect offers you a number of ways to use your registered personal computer on the Brunel University network in support of your learning and research activities throughout your time at the university. You are probably used to Internet access at home, but it is important to note that the Brunel network cannot be treated as the same thing. The purpose of the Brunel network is to give you access to study resources.
You can get:
- Access to the university's intranet and internal resources
- Your university email
- Limited, monitored access through to the Internet via the Brunel network
Connect Services
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| Wifi@Brunel is our campus wireless service which we offer for connecting laptops. | ResNet is the wired network installed within the halls of residence at Brunel University. |
The AnyConnect VPN service allows users who are off-campus to securely connect to the Brunel Data Network in order to access resources that are not available externally. For most people this means access to network drives (e.g. H: and G:). |
For information, help, and registration, go to the Connect Portal (registered Brunel users only).
Where can I use Connect services?
The Wifi@Brunel wireless network is available widely on the Uxbridge campus, including within Brunel Halls of Residence. For more information about coverage, see the Connect Portal (registered Brunel users only). ResNet is a wired connection available in all Brunel Halls of Residence. VPN can only be used from outside the university, for example at home. There are currently no subscription fees for the use of these services.
Requirements
Requirements - registration
You must be registered before you can use any Connect services:
- You'll need a valid, current, Brunel University username and password for Brunel computing facilities (you receive this once you are registered at Brunel). Visit the Services page to find out more about computing accounts.
- When you have the above, you will need to register your computer on the Connect Portal if you plan to use any of the Connect services.
Safe computing requirements
Your computer must meet our mandatory minimum anti-virus and security requirements listed below:
- Antivirus: You must have a fully working, up to date, activated Internet Security product, otherwise your computer will get viruses and you will be in danger of losing your data. Installation of such a product is mandatory and if it requires a subscription, it must be renewed before it expires. New computers often come with a trial version of an Internet Security product which will time out and leave your computer unprotected. Please do not install more than one anti-virus product. Kaspersky Internet Security is available to download free via the Connect Portal (registered Brunel users only).
- Microsoft Updates: You must set Microsoft Update to download and install updates automatically on your Windows PC. These are vital for repairing security holes and bugs which otherwise let in attackers, viruses and so on. Please be aware that you will still need to accept some prompts to allow the downloads to be installed.
- Firewall: You must have firewall software turned on. If your Internet Security product includes a firewall then you must have this feature turned on. If it does not include a firewall, you must ensure that the Windows firewall is turned on.
Further details are available on our 'Security and Safety' pages, accessible on the Connect Portal to registered students and staff.
Requirements for laptop or desktop computers*
- Windows XP (Service Pack 3), Windows Vista (Service Pack 2), Windows 7, or Windows 8. Your computer must meet the minimum hardware level specified by Microsoft for your Windows operating system. Apple Macs must be running OS X 10.4 and above.**
- A wired network card/adaptor (for ResNet).
- A supported Wifi adaptor (for Wifi@Brunel) which is compatible with WPA Enterprise encryption. Intel Centrino technology is tested and recommended for use with Wifi@Brunel.
- For connecting to ResNet you will also need an RJ45 UTP (straight-through) CAT5e patch cable. We suggest that it is of a minimum length of 2 metres. You won't be able to use a modem cable. Suitable cables are available from your Halls office or from the Computer Centre IT Store.
Other Devices*
- Hubs, switches, wireless access points and routers are strictly prohibited at Brunel.
- PDAs/Smart-phones can be connected to Wifi through self-configuration guides, though we cannot give you ongoing assistance with these devices.
Notes
* Subject to change.
** Please note that there will be no support for operating systems prior to Windows XP Service Pack 3. You can configure other operating systems (such as Mac, Linux etc.) to connect, but support on these systems will be limited to self help only.
For information, help, and registration, go to the Connect Portal (registered Brunel users only).
