ResNet
Bandwidth
Internet bandwidth allocation for ResNet
Currently, 60% of UCT's Internet bandwidth is dedicated to general web browsing. The rest of the bandwidth is allocated to Library services, email and other core services.
ResNet has dedicated Internet bandwidth for general web browsing and ftp (file transfer protocol). Half of the bandwidth has been allocated from UCT's general web browsing allowance. The other half is top-up bandwidth purchased by SH&RL.
| Times | Internet bandwidth available to ResNet |
| 07h00 - 19h00 | 1.5 Mbps |
| 19h00 - 07h00 | 2.5 Mbps |
Remember that these amounts are shared by all residence students accessing the Internet.
ResNet Internet quotas (RIQ)
Individual student Internet usage will be measured (by volume) and each student will be allocated a monthly ResNet Internet quota (RIQ) of 500MB for general Internet access. Over and above this, ResNet users have access to specialised library services, academic & administrative material on UCT websites, TURNITIN, online learning environments (e.g. Vula), patches to Windows & anti-virus updates, files via NetStorage and the UCT email system for free.
If you exceed your RIQ during any given month, you will have to wait until the next month, when you will again receive 500MB. If it becomes clear that you are abusing the system, your access to the Internet will be suspended and you will only have access to services on the UCT network.
Why is it important to limit bandwidth?
UCT has to buy Internet bandwidth, which is very costly in South Africa. To ensure that everyone has reasonable connectivity to the Internet, it is necessary to manage the available bandwidth. If any one user uses excessive Internet bandwidth, it negatively affects all other users. The limits imposed have been carefully considered by the University Information and Communication Technology Committee (UICTC), and should be sufficient to support your academic studies.
What can I do to ensure that I do not use up my quota too quickly?
A wide range of services can be accessed via the UCT network. These services will not count towards your quota. (See diagram below) Downloading large files can quickly use up your quota. You may wish to limit the downloading of non-copyrighted MP3s, movies, games and other non-academic material. Remember, that you are bound by the University's Policy and Rules of Internet and Email use which prohibit, amongst other things, any type of software piracy, copyright infringement or the downloading or distribution of pornography.
If I exceed my RIQ, can I still access the Internet from a student lab?
Yes, the student labs offer Internet access to all registered students. Any Internet access from a student lab does not count towards your RIQ. Your RIQ is only applicable when you are accessing the Internet from a student residence via the ResNet. (See: Individual ResNet Internet quotas (RIQ) in the article at www.icts.uct.ac.za | Student Computing | Residences | ResNet Internet bandwidth management)
Will I be able to read my mail on Gmail/Hotmail/etc?
Yes, but remember that this will count towards your quota. UCT offers students a mailbox on the UCT mail system. Use of your UCT mail account will not count towards your ResNet Internet quota.
What counts towards the ResNet Internet quota
| Part of Quota | Not Part of Quota |
| Internet access via ResNet bandwidth + Additional bandwidth "top-up" purchased by SH&RL |
- UCT Email - UCT Websites - Vula - Academic material on UCT Network - Licensed Library Services |