Broadband service information

Can Duke alumni get Duke-sponsored broadband?

Yes,  local alumni can get Duke-sponsored broadband. Visit the Internet access for alumni page for more information.


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Can I access restricted Duke resources with off-campus broadband?

Yes. You will be able to access restricted library resources and other Duke IP-restricted websites or databases from any commercial provider by using the Duke University VPN or Duke Health System VPN.



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Do I need a static IP address?

Most casual Internet users do not need a static IP address. If you use the Internet for browsing websites, downloading and uploading files, e-mail, instant message services, or chat services, then the added expense of a static IP address is probably unnecessary.

If you run one or more Web servers, e-mail servers, FTP servers, or any other service or application to which external Internet users connect regularly, you will need to purchase at least one static IP address.

You can read more information about static vs. dynamic IP addresses in the broadbandreports.com FAQ pages. NOTE: A static IP address is not required to access Duke-specific servers or websites. However, a VPN client is needed to access certain confidential information and systems.

If you work for Duke Health System, learn more about the health system VPN client here.
If you work for Duke University, learn more about the university VPN client here.


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What mail server settings should I use in my e-mail client for my Road Runner e-mail?

Incoming: pop-server.nc.rr.com or imap-server.nc.rr.com
Learn about POP vs. IMAP (from the University of Washington)

Outgoing: smtp-server.nc.rr.com

If you want to check your Duke e-mail using your Road Runner account, learn about Duke authenticated SMTP and whether you need to configure your computer to use it.


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What mail server settings should I use in my e-mail client for my Intrex.net e-mail?

Incoming: pop.intrex.net or imap.intrex.net
Learn about POP vs. IMAP (from the University of Washington)

Outgoing: smtp.intrex.net


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What if I want a specific router configuration for my Time Warner Cable enhanced service?

Once you have submitted your order, e-mail support@twcbroadband.com for specific router information. Include your name, service address and phone number.


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How do I change from a self-paid account to a Duke-paid account?

  1. Go to the Remote Access home page.
  2. Select Current Customer.
  3. Under current broadband customer, select Road Runner to Road Runner (for the Duke service plan).
  4. Under Switch commercial Road Runner service to a Duke-sponsored Road Runner Commercial service plan, select plans and pricing page.
  5. View the various levels of service, then select Order a Road Runner standard service plan here.
  6. Enter your last name and your Duke Unique ID.
  7. Select Submit. After verification, you will be forwarded to theTime Warner website.
  8. Select Continue. Click Next.
  9. Select Upgrade (even though the service level remains the same). Click Next.
  10. Enter your Time Warner Cable account number (this is the 6 or 7-digit number ending in -01, -02, etc.) on the left-hand side of your Time Warner cable TV monthly statement. Click Next.
  11. Select a plan. Click Next.
  12. Select Confirm. Print a copy of the confirmation from Time Warner for your records.
  13. Click Next.

NOTE: Customers who do not currently have Road Runner service will be asked to provide a Duke Cost Center in the sign-up process.


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How do I disconnect my Time Warner Cable Internet service?

  1. Visit OIT's Remote Access page.
  2. Select Disconnect and Account Changes.
  3. Under Road Runner Customers, select Road Runner service disconnection and change form.
  4. Enter your last name and your Duke Unique ID. If you do not know your unique ID number select the Duke Unique ID link.
  5. Select Submit after verification. You will be forwarded to a Time Warner website.
  6. Select Continue.
  7. Select Disconnect your Duke-discounted service.
  8. Select Next Page.
  9. Enter your Time Warner Cable account number (this is the 6 or 7-digit number ending in -01, -02, etc.) on the left-hand side of your Time Warner cable TV monthly statement.
  10. Select Next Page.
  11. Select how the TWC cable equipment will be returned:
    A. I would like to have my equipment picked up by Time Warner Cable staff
    B. I would like to turn in my equipment at a local Time Warner Cable office
  12. Select Next Page.
  13. Enter preferred date of disconnection.

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How do I disconnect my Intrex.net DSL service?

To disconnect Intrex DSL service, send a signed cancellation request to Intrex in one of the following ways:


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Do I need a dial-up service option?

If you frequently travel, dial-up service may be an important consideration. Dial-up allows you to access the Internet using a modem. However, only Road Runner service plans offer local numbers in most major US cities.


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What does "service speed" mean?

The speeds listed are maximum speeds, but they are not guaranteed. Realistically you will probably experience lower than maximum speeds.

Many factors contribute to speed degradation, including network traffic, the physical condition of the wire into your house, and more.

To put broadband speeds in perspective, consider that a typical 56K modem probably averages between 40 and 50 Kbps (kilobytes per second). Even if the slowest broadband speed (384 Kbps) in the service plans offered here is half as fast as listed, it is still over three times faster than a 56K modem. In short, the difference between dial-up and broadband is noticeable.


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