Internet Access

Access to the Internet is especially important for students taking distance learning courses, where courses may make extensive use of Blackboard, online discussion groups, e-mail and other methods of file sharing, communication and interaction.

Students taking web-delivered or distance education courses are responsible for securing an Internet Service Provider. For most students, this will mean locating and paying for the services of an ISP that serves the area in which they live.

Others will want to explore the options made available by wireless technology, but they will need to pay for and configure their own software.

The options for securing Internet access are outlined below:

Internet Service Providers

This link sends users to a web site called "The List of ISPs," where users can search by zip code for Internet service providers serving their area. Information is available on providers offering dial-up access as well as those offering high-speed access such as ISDN cable and DSL.

Wireless Options

Sul Ross has installed a number of wireless access points on campus, at various points around the city of Alpine and in a number of outlying communities. This link provides information on the hardware needed in order to secure a wireless connection. Students who may want to consider this option are those living within the Alpine city limits, as well as persons living in Fort Davis, Fort Stockton, Marathon, Marfa, Terlingua/South Brewster County and Van Horn.