ResNet
WSU’s residential computer network
ResNet provides both wired and wireless high-speed network connections to the Internet. ResNet is available at no cost to tenants of the Wayne State University residence halls and apartment buildings: Ghafari Hall, Atchison Hall, The Towers Residential Suites, University Tower, Helen L. DeRoy Apartments, and Chatsworth Tower Apartments.
ResNet wireless coverage was expanded during the summer: access points were installed throughout both the DeRoy and University Tower Apartments, and these buildings are now fully covered. In Chatsworth, wireless is only available in the lobby at his time.
Residents of WSU Housing must follow the ResNet Usage Policy and the University's policy on Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources. Policy violations may result in a fine, the suspension or termination of ResNet privileges, as well as discipline under the appropriate resident, student, faculty, or staff due process policy.
IMPORTANT: personally-owned wireless access points and routers are strictly prohibited in Wayne State Housing. Residents that install unauthorized wireless access points or routers will have their network access suspended and be subject to reconnection fees. For details, see the ResNet Usage Policy. If you need additional network ports, use an Ethernet switch, not a router. See our recommended Ethernet switch from Amazon.
ResNet security
ResNet uses Cisco NAC technology to maintain a secure network. Every time you log on to ResNet, Cisco NAC checks to make sure your computer meets current security requirements. If your computer passes the security check, then you can access the Internet. If not, then your computer is given restricted Internet access so that you can address the security problem.
Cisco NAC maintains a list of current security criteria, and updates the list every day at 5 a.m. Any computers connected to ResNet at 5 a.m. will be disconnected and asked to log back in, to verify that the updated security requirements are being met.
What you need to use ResNet
- Make sure your computer meets the minimum specifications:
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Follow the preparation steps outlined in Using a Computer in a WSU Residence Hall or Apartment, Checklist to Avoid Problems

- We have detailed instructions that cover how to configure your computer's network port to use a wired ResNet connection
- For wireless connections, see our wireless@wayne information and configuration instructions
Setting up a video game console, set-top box, or Internet-enabled media player
If you need to set up a non-computer Internet device (such as a TiVo, Wii, or Internet-enabled DVD player), you must request a ResNet Device Exception. Please see this additional information about making a Game Console Request. NOTE: Computing & Information Technology (C&IT) reserves the right to deny any exception request.
For assistance
Friendly and knowledgeable computer support and reasonably priced diagnostic repair services (for personally owned computers) are available at Wayne State – and provided by C&IT. Students can take advantage of these services in the following ways:
- Drop by universe IT, C&IT’s computer service center -- conveniently located at 211 Student Center. Fees and minimum system requirements are available at: http://computing.wayne.edu/clinic
- For personal assistance, call the C&IT Help Desk at (313) 577-4778 or email them at: helpdesk@wayne.edu
- Looking for FAQs? Like to diagnose and repair on your own? Explore the ResNet folder inside the IT Knowledgebase