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Internet Basics Email / Spam / Viruses Instant Messaging Laptop Setup Student Disk Quota Creating Web Pages Passwords User Profiles After Graduation

FAQ - Internet Basics

What is the World-Wide Web, anyway?
The FAQ written by Tom Boutell is still going strong at www.boutell.com -- still one of the best resources for basic questions about the World Wide Web and how it works.

Who decides how the world-wide-web operates?
Often referred to as the Web's "governing body", the World Wide Web Consortium (or W3C for short) sets standards that are used by all major web browsers and guidelines that web developers follow when creating web pages.

How do I access Olin's Modem Bank?
The Olin modem bank is a dialup ISP (internet service provider) that is for use by Olin students, faculty, and staff and is accessible only via password. The dial-in number for the modem bank is 314-512-0027.

Where does Olin provide access locations within Simon Hall?
There are several internet access locations in Simon Hall. Also note that if you have a laptop that is configured for wireless access (see wireless help), there are many other locations in Simon where you can simply power on your laptop and be connected to the internet.

How can I remotely register for classes?
Students can register for classes via WebSTAC, the university's online registration system. Please consult specific registration instructions that your program provides before proceeding with registration each semester so you stay up to date on any changes.

Where can I get the files for my classes?
Most Professors offer course materials electronically through Blackboard, the courseware software program used at Olin as of January, 2004. If your Professor has elected an alternate method for distributing class materials, he or she will tell you what to do.

How can I access Olin-only sites (such as Kopolow Library Resources) when I am not in Simon Hall or the Knight Center?
Some Olin web pages are restricted to Olin students, faculty, and staff viewing. As such, only Olin computers are able to load the pages. However, it is possible to access these pages remotely, by using Olin's proxy servers.

How do I make a website and put it online?
See our webpage on creating web pages for information on making a personal website to put online.

What browser should I use? What is the difference between them?
There are many different web browsers available for download and use, including (but certainly not limited to) Internet Explorer, Netscape, Opera, and Mozilla. While each program has its own unique features, they all perform the same basic function, that being displaying web pages. Internet Explorer is currently the most widely used browser, and is the default browser used in Olin computer labs.

How do I find information on (subject) on the web?
There are countless numbers of search engines available on the web to help you find what you are looking for. Some of the most popular are Google, Yahoo!, and Lycos.