Wireless access can be found in various locations around campus and can support 802.11 b, g, and n depending on location and wireless adapter.

Your computer will need to:

For more information, see the sections below.  In order to get the most out of your AQnet experience, we suggest you refer to the Recommended Computer Specifications page for information on configuring your computer for enhanced performance on AQnet.   

What services will I receive on the AQnet network?

You will also have access to all of the ELM services, including but not limited to web-based email, a personal calendar, integrated course software, and our very own student news portal, The Moose.

How do I configure my operating system?

Aquinas provides documentation to help you configure various operating systems on AQnet.  RTAs (Resident Technology Assistants) are only trained in dealing with Windows machines.  Other operating systems are permitted, but are treated with a "best-effort" frame of mind - meaning that we cannot provide in-depth assistance.  Please select your computer's operating system from the list below for configuration instructions for AQnet:

If you are not running any of the operating systems listed above, click here for generic instructions on configuring your operating system.  

You will need to purchase a RJ-45, Category 5 cable to connect to AQnet via the wired ports.  The cable looks similar to a phone cable but you will notice that the head is slightly larger.  If you are having problems with your cable, verify that it is a RJ-45 and not a phone cable.  Sometimes RJ-45 cables will wear out and no longer work.  If you have verified that the cable is RJ-45, it is plugged into a network jack, and you are still unable to access the internet, please try another cable or fill out the AQnet Support Wizard from a computer lab or a roommate’s computer.

How do I register my computer?

In order to use AQnet, you will need to register your computer. Before you begin, verify that your RJ-45 cable is plugged in or your wireless adapter is enabled.  Open your Internet browser. It may take a few minutes, but an AQnet Access and Registration screen will eventually appear. You will need to follow the steps listed below.

1. You will need to read and “Accept” the AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) and the AQnet Service Level Agreement.  Click “Next”.
2. To gain network access, users will need to select one of the policies options: 
   • Faculty, Staff and Students
   • Guest
3. Faculty, Staff and Students will need an active ELM account in order to register.  Fill in the form with your ELM username and password and click “Continue”.  Guests will need a Guest username and password into order to register. Fill in the form with your Guest username and password (created by ITS and given out by Aquinas Staff or Faculty) and click “Continue”. 
4. You will be prompted to download and run the Persistent Agent or Client Security Agent. Please leave the agent running at all times. This agent will allow your computer to be scanned to make sure the requirements are meet. In order to connect, you will need to have up-to-date anti-virus software and any current critical Windows updates.  All updates will need to be installed before a successful connection to AQnet can be made.

What does the Persistent Agent or Client Security Agent do?

If you don't have a computer, you can still use the main computer labs in the Academic Building, Room 355 and in the Library.  There are also labs located in each of the Residence Halls.  

You may also purchase a computer for use on AQnet.  Aquinas College is working with CDW-G to lower the cost of computer systems and accessories for our students, faculty, and staff.  For more information and to purchase a computer, contact:
   Hansen Chennikkara
   Phone: 1-866-339-3639
   Fax: 1-312-705-8245

You may also browse the CDWG website at www.cdwg.com/aquinas.  See the Recommended Computer Specifications page for information on configuring your computer for enhanced performance on AQnet.

Students may use personal printers on AQnet, but are unable to print to Aquinas Network printers.  However, printing is available from within any of the labs in the Academic Building, Albertus Hall or the Library for a fee.  

Need additional help?

To receive additional help on how to use AQnet or to troubleshoot your machine in order to get on AQnet, please see the AQnet Support Wizard. This intuitive online tool will assist you in obtaining support for your AQnet computer and connection from a Resident Technology Assistant (RTA).  RTA’s are not allowed to repair any equipment.  For equipment repair, please contact your manufacturer for warranty information.

It is quite simple to determine if you are connected to the network and have an IP address. Follow the directions below:

Windows Vista

1. Click on the "Start" button
2. Type “command” in text box
3. Right-click on “Command Prompt” and click “Run as administrator”
4. If a User Account Control window pops up, click “Continue”
5. In the box that opens, type “ipconfig” and press “Enter”
6. If you are connected you will see a valid IP address, if it says 0.0.0.0 please verify that your network cable is properly attached

Windows XP/2000

1. Click on the "Start" button
2. Click on "Run"
3. Type "command"
4. In the box that opens, type "ipconfig /all"
5. If you are connected you will see a valid IP address, if it says 0.0.0.0 please verify that your network cable is properly attached

What email clients can I use on AQnet?

How do I connect my mobile/handheld devices?

Handheld devices that utilize the wireless connection on campus, such as an iPhone, will bypass the required download reserved for computers, and will be allowed network access. For IMAP access on mobile phones, visit m.google.com/a from your phone browser.