Adding a New Computer to the Network

We use different models for connecting different kinds of computers to the Maseeh College network. Laptops are computers that move around, or come and go. Desktops are assumed to have a “home.” Wireless laptops are connected to the Wi-Fi network that TheCAT jointly manages with PSU-OIT. It is possible for a single computer that fits more than one of these roles to be connected in more than one way.  (Note that the “Laptop” and “Desktop” names used here do not always match the physical form-factor of the computing device.)

We network most computers (loosely, desktops) according to the specific role of that computer. This means that every such computer is assigned to a jack, and that jack is configured for an appropriate subnet. Static addresses with DNS entries are provided via the DHCP protocol. All Tier 1 and Tier 2 computers must be Desktops (Support tier information may be found at https://cat.pdx.edu/users/facilities/deploy-system/support-tiers/.)

TheCAT may need some information about your device to resolve certain networking or connectivity issues, or if you would like to register your device to work on a wired internet connection in the MCECS facilities.

For instructions on how to identify the MAC address of your Windows computer, visit OIT’s how-to page:

https://portlandstate.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/1014/article/3124854939

To find your IP address and other ways your device is identified by our systems at PSU, visit theCAT’s status page:

https://status.cecs.pdx.edu/

If you are connected to a VPN, your IP address is the one given to you by that VPN. Otherwise your IP address will be the one provided by your initiating network connection.

To request that a new desktop computer be connected, please fill out the following form:

https://intranet.cecs.pdx.edu/network/host/add

For computers that move around (Laptops), we offer jacks and a registration page. Any registered laptop can use any laptop jack. Dynamic addresses are offered via DHCP. Laptops are separated from desktops (and servers) by network restrictions. Users may require the use of a VPN client to get around these. (For VPN information, see our windows and linux guides.) To register a laptop, see:

https://cat.pdx.edu/platforms/windows/how-to/laptop-guide/l

To request that a jack be made usable by laptops, please use the following form:

https://intranet.cecs.pdx.edu/network/laptopjack

Wireless networking is managed by OIT. Users with Wi-Fi (802.11g/n or better) NICs authenticate with using your OIT username and password (ie: your Odin ID). See our wireless guide. To gain access to restricted items (such as printers and stashes) on the network see our VPN guides (MCECS and OIT both provide VPNs).

In general, users should not attempt to extend the Maseeh College network beyond its authorized and documented boundaries. Hubs will cause problems, and should be avoided. If you think you need a hub, contact support to see if we can find a way to meet your need while avoiding the hub. If we cannot, we will document the existence of the hub, and configure the jack for the hub to be better protected against the problems hubs can cause. Wireless access points have all the problems that hubs have, plus they can leak Maseeh College network traffic and allow access to unauthorized users.

Network users should be aware that PSU’s computing AUP applies to all computers while connected to PSU networks.