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University Technology Services

• UTS Home

MacOnline Registration System - Quick Help sheet for Support Staff

Beginning September 2007, Technology Services, Enterprise Networks will be implementing a network registration system, as a pilot project, for students in Residence. The system will require students to register their computers and network devices before gaining full network access. The intent is to maintain a better association between student and equipment. As of Winter, 2008, all Residences except for Les Price Hall have NetReg Active. The system is confined to residence, meaning that it's not accessible outside of those buildings. For that reason, I have prepared the following instruction guide for assisting staff with students having difficulty registering.

System Overview

• NetReg is the Registration system based on the open source system NetReg found at http://www.netreg.org
• NetReg will run on RedHat Enterprise Linux on two newly acquired Dell PowerEdge Servers, one in Moulton, one in McKay and connected directly to the Core switches
• NetReg systems run DHCP, a "bogus" DNS server, and Registration system (Web Based using Apache/SSL)
• Customer VLAN's consist of two shared networks, a Public Network for general Internet connectivity and a Private network (using Private address space) for the registration system

Registration Process

• Unregistered client boots computer and is assigned a private network address with limited network connectivity, and Bogus DNS servers which redirects all DNS queries to the Registration server.
  
  
  
• Client opens web browser and automatically redirects to the Registration server Web interface

• Client Registers using Online form
  • Students can register up to a maximum of three (3) devices using their own MAC ID.
• NetReg places customer MAC address into DHCP "known hosts" group
• Client is prompted to reboot computer - on reboot DHCP assigns new "Registered" client Public Internet Address and real DNS servers.
• The only interaction with the NetReg servers at this point is DHCP.
• See also Student documentation [www.mcmaster.ca/uts/connections/network/Netreg.html]

Registering non computer devices (such as Game Systems)

• This applies to registering a game console or some other networked device that does not have a web browser. Since students are provided with only one data jack, connecting multiple devices requires either a router or switch.
  
  
  • The game system or device is attached behind a router (such as a Linksys or Dlink). Have the student register using their computer. This will automatically allow all devices behind the router full access to the network.
    
  • If the Game system is connected behind a switch or hub (not a router), then each system attached will have to be registered. Direct them to this web page for the non-computer devices [http://netman.mcmaster.ca/maconly/reg_nonpc.html]

Troubleshooting

• The system was designed to be as user friendly as possible. However, students may encounter problems. Some common problems and their solutions are:
  
• Have they been redirected to the Registration page?
  Have them attempt access to a site such as www.yahoo.com. If they get there, they are already registered.
  
• Did they enter a valid MAC ID and password?
  The system will respond with Invalid Username/Password if not. Have them verify their MAC ID at http://www.mcmaster.ca/uts/macid/
  
• Have they registered and activated their MAC ID?
  The system was designed to allow the student access to MUGSI without completing the registration process. This way they can activate their MAC ID and register immediately. Several links to the appropriate instructions are provided.
  
• The registration was successful, but they are being redirected to the registration web page again?
  Have them wait a minute or two, reboot their computer, and try again. The computer must release its temporary address, and be assigned a new permanent address. This happens automatically but takes anywhere from 30 seconds to a minute. The reboot isn't strictly necessary but ensures any old cached information is removed.
  
• A reboot doesn't fix the problem, what now?
  Have them attempt registration again, if the system reports they're already registered, then the most likely cause is the student has brought in their own router (such as a Linksys or Dlink) and attached to it. They must reset or power cycle the router so that it acquires the new IP address. Have them power off both the computer and router, then power on the router and computer in that order. Note: when registering through a router, they're actually registering the router itself and by default everything behind the router will work without further registration.
  
• It's still not working! What next?
  Have the student or designate open a Trouble Ticket with the UTS Service Desk (to be assigned to the Network Group).

Copy of Registration - Frequently Asked Questions (from Web Site)

[As of August 22, 2007]

Q. Why do I need to register?
A. Registration associates you with the data port in your room. If UTS staff need to communicate with you, it assures we have the right person. Registration only takes a few minutes and is mandatory.

Q. What if I don't have a MAC ID?
A. You can activate your MAC ID, prior to registration, by visiting the MUGSI site. Be sure to protect your MAC ID, and do not give your password to anyone, even UTS staff.

Q. How many times will I have to register?
A. Just once when you first connect your computer. Your web browser will automatically direct you to the registration site if you're not already registered.

Q. I have more than one computer. How do I register all of them?
A. If your computer(s) or game system(s) are connected behind a router, such as a Linksys or Dlink, then you only need to register once using your computer. That will activate everything behind the router.

If you have multiple computers or devices behind a simple switch or hub, then you'll need to activate each one separately. Devices with a built in web browser can be activated directly by simply connecting it to the network cable, and opening its browser. Devices without a built in web browser will have to be activated by UTS staff. Please follow the instructions at this site

Q. I registered my computer successfully, but after rebooting, it still redirects me to the registration page. When I attempt to register again, it says I'm already registered. What's happening?
A. You have most likely connected your computer behind a router that you brought with you. The router must be powered off and on again to register properly. Power your computer off, then the router, wait 30 seconds, then power up the router and computer (in that order).