• ITS home
• Help
• Services
• My IT account
• Security
• About

Questions and answers

1557

What should I do the internet connection in my room has been restricted?

Why is my Wired Access connection slow?

If you have good wired access performance, this is probably because you use it wisely. If you have neighbours that complain about their access speed it may be because they do not. The network is set up to automatically prevent inconsiderate users "bandwidth hogging" by:

• stopping the use of peer to peer software (such as BitTorrent or Kazaa) for illegal downloads
• limiting computers that have been compromised because they have no virus protection or up-to-date security patches (as they may be being exploited to send out spam)
• limiting excessive bandwidth use by games or incorrectly configured Skype

The typical connection speed for wired access connection is deliberately lower than that of the campus network in order to ensure that it does not take up a disproportionate share of the University's connection to Janet and the internet.

If you or a neighbour are experiencing poor performance, then it is probably because the network is actively limiting your connection in order to prevent damage to others. Check to see if this is the case and how to resolve the problem yourself using our general documentation and FAQs:

Why is my Wired Access connection slow?

Make sure that you install anti-virus software. We recommend Microsoft Security Essentials which is free for Windows users:

Installing security software

To ensure you continue to experience a good wired access connection, please make sure you have set up Skype correctly (see the new leaflet available from IT Services) and think about how you use your computer - you will have a much better experience if you are considerate to others.