You will need a data cable to physically connect your computer to the data jack in your room. This cable will look similar to a phone cable, but the end connectors are almost twice as big (called RJ45 connectors).

The length of the data cable is important. The shorter the data cable, the better. For most Residence Rooms on campus, 15 feet should be fine as long as your computer is close to the data jack. Unfortunately, if your computer is across the room from the data jack, you may need up to a 30 foot data cable.

Most office supply stores now sell data cables in different lengths. Computer Connections here on campus sells data cables.

When running the data cable between your computer and the data jack, never kink the cable or place objects on top of it (except for a rug or other covering).