Campus Modem Service Update

Home ITS Services Hardware Campus Modem Service Update

The campus modem service was decommisssioned on March 21, 2008 and no longer offered as a service.

The decision was based on a significant decrease in the number of modem users and on an outdated and unsupported hardware environment.

If you used the campus modem service and now need to obtain your own commercial Internet Service Provider (ISP), there are several companies which offer high speed internet access (DSL, Broadband, Cable, and Satellite) and Dial-Up Internet access. Examples of ISPs that provide this type of service in Santa Cruz include Cruzio, NetZero, EarthLink and Comcast.

If you have questions, please contact the ITS Support Center at 459-4357, or email help@ucsc.edu, https://itrequest.ucsc.edu.

The Support Center cannot recommend an ISP, but once you have chosen your own service, the Support Center can assist you with the transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

a. Why can't UCSC replace the existing modems with new modem hardware?

The modem service (56k dial-up) is no longer a widely used service at UCSC or at other universities. The modem usage has dramatically declined over the past two years to approximately 100 users. Replacing the existing modem with new modem hardware would cost an estimated $40,000 with $20,000 in on-going costs.

b. Why wasn't I given more notice?

We had planned to continue offering a modem service via a commercial vendor for the remainder of the 2007/2008 academic year. However, we very recently learned that the vendor has declined to do business with us for just 100 users. The appropriate modem service users were notified of this change.

c. Why doesn't UCSC continue to keep the modem up and available until it breaks?

As of January 1, 2008, the vendor no longer supports our modem, including bug fixes and patches, which means that in addition to hardware failures, the modem will be prone to security risks.

d. Will I have the same access to campus web sites as I did with the UCSC modem if I switch to my own commercial ISP?

With your own ISP, you should have access to the majority of campus web sites. However, if you have been accessing a web site that requires you to log in using a UCSC IP address, you may experience a problem. Please contact the ITS Support Center if you do not have access to these web sites after moving to a commercial ISP.

e. Will I be able to keep my current UCSC email address?

Yes, your email address won't change, and you can access CruzMail regardless of your internet service provide. If you need help configuring your email client, please contact the ITS Support Center.

f. Will I still be able to access AIS to post grades?

Yes, you can access AIS regardless of your internet service provider