Before turning on your computer, make certain that both ends of your patch cord (the yellow cable) are plugged in securely. Once you have done this, start up your computer.

Before your computer can connect to the USC network, you will have to authenticate to the network and validate that your computer is configured to meet the minimum security requirements for the network.  You can initiate the process by opening an internet browser window; rather than viewing your home page, you will be redirected to the USC Network Authentication & Registration page.  This page documents the terms and conditions for operating a computer on the USC network.  Your login indicates your acceptance and intention to comply and will initiate the authentication & validation process.

The authentication & validation process involves 4 steps outlined below. 
              Click here for more detailed, printable instructions.

1.  Login to the network with your network username and password.
You can obtain your network username by logging into VIP and selecting the “Technology” link and then selecting the “Show Me Network Username” button.  Note that your network username and password is not the USC identification number and PIN used to login to VIP itself.
Once you’ve entered your network username and password, your machine will be scanned for vulnerabilities; once the scan successfully completes, you may be prompted to download and install the validation client (SmartEnforcer) if you have not already done so.

2. Download and Install SmartEnforcer client.
If  this is the first time you are logging in, you must download and install the SmartEnforcer client on your Windows PC by clicking on the button provided.  Once installed, the SmartEnforcer client will launch and will, again, request that you login using your network username and password. 

3.  SmartEnforcer will check whether your PC is current with Windows critical updates and  McAfee anti-virus software.
If your PC is current, you will be connected to the network.  If your PC is not current, you will be directed to the appropriate site for Windows or McAfee updates.  Once your PC passes the validation check, you will be connected to the network.

4.  Your network session timer is set for 7 days. 
Once 7 days has expired, you will lose your connection abruptly and you will have to login again to regain network access. Your timer is reset each time you logout and then login again; we recommend that you proactively logout daily and then login again to reset your timer and prevent any abrupt disconnects.  Please note that if your PC is powered off or “sleeps” for an extended time (more than a few hours), it may be logged out.  You can logout and login via the SmartEnforcer menu, accessed by right-clicking the SmartEnforcer icon    in the system tray. 
 

Troubleshooting:  If you are not able to initiate the process and open an internet browser window, first check that you have a valid IP address.

1. Click on the Start menu and click on Run.
2. Type winipcfg and click Ok. Your IP address should be 172.16.###.###. If your IP address does not begin this way or you get any other error, call the University Technology Services Help Desk at (803) 777-1800 for assistance.
3. Close the IP Configuration window.

1. Click on Start and right-click on My Network Places.
2. Go to Properties.
3. Right-click on Local Area Connection.
4. Choose Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).
5. Click on Properties.
6. Make sure the circle beside Obtain IP address automatically is selected.
7. Click OK.