[UCLA-LUG] I doubt I'm the only one . . .

[Joshua Barratt]

but since I'm not living in the dorms, I can't be abused by the STC so I
took the liberty of sending the following non-confrontational message to
them enquiring as to the specifics of this year's linux policy.

----->

To whom it may concern:

I am a student returning to UCLA this year, and was curious about some of
the new network policies that seem to be implimented. As a CS major, I
find Linux to be the most accomodating operating system for my day to day
and academic use. Last year it was requested that those of us "running
servers" register with the STC and after so doing, I was granted a static
IP. This arrangement worked very well for me, and I had no further issues
with the STC. I noted this year that the following line appears in the
Acceptable Use Policy:
 
3.If experimentation with network protocols, running of personal networks,
provision or such services to outside entities or individuals, or other
functions is academically required (including the need
       for static IP addresses), the Student shall obtain prior written
authorization through the Student Technology Center and the Student's
Academic Dean.

I wish to know the impact this will have on those of us who choose linux
as an OS. I have no problem using a DHCP server and taking a dynamic IP
like my windows and mac using brethern -- however, if the STC's policy is
still that linux users must have a static IP, then this is a non-trivial
problem. It is unreasonable in this day and age, considering the
ever-widening acceptance of linux as a viable alternative, to make those
of us who use it jump through administrative red tape.

My wishes are simple -- to use the operating system best suited to my
needs and to be given the same treatment as all other students. I well
remember the hassle certain students were given last year, and hope to
avoid such a confrontation. If the STC has no problem with granting linux
users dynamic IP's, then I have no problem with the STC.

I eagerly await your response on this issue,

Cordially yours,

        --Joshua Barratt