Rice’s Internet Firewall - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the Internet firewall prevent me from using Rice services from off-campus?
   Services currently provided to off-campus users will not be affected by the Internet firewall.
2. Will the Internet firewall change my access to off-campus services depending on my Internet Service Provider (ISP) or because I'm using an 'Internet Cafe?
   No. All those networks are considered off-campus and still receive all services intended for off-campus users. NOTE: Some ISPs do not permit all services on their networks, for instance, some ISPs block Exchange e-mail.
3. Will the Internet firewall permit me to set up a Web site on my personal computer at the University that others can access from off-campus?
   Not on your personal computer, but all University faculty and students are provided Web space for their use. You can find more information on using your University personal website; or contact the IT Help Desk at 713.348.HELP(4357) if you would like to pursue the use of a server for your application.
4. Will the Internet firewall permit me to use Internet Telephony services?
   Probably – Information Technology believes that both Skype and Vonage are compatible with the Internet firewall.
5. Can I request that certain TCP/UDP ports be opened up on the firewall for just my IP address?
   No. However, if some aspect of your academic work requires this, other solutions might be available. Please contact the IT Help Desk, 713.348.HELP(4357) or helpdesk at rice dot edu.
6. Does the firewall block messaging applications such as AIM and IRC?
   The Internet firewall does not disable AIM. However, for client to client file transfers to work, you will have to change the settings on your AIM client. For IRC, the DDC and ‘identd’ features are incompatible with the Internet firewall. Information Technology is investigating an IRC proxy to address this issue.
7. Does the firewall block game communication applications such as Ventrilo and Roger Wilco?
   The Internet firewall does prevent users from creating channels or chat servers for others to join. However, joining servers or channels created by others for these applications is not affected.
8. Does the firewall prevent my Xbox, PS3, or Wii consoles from joining Internet game networks?
   No, joining game networks such as Xbox Live will not be affected by the Internet firewall.
9. Does the Internet firewall cause issues with videoconferencing?
   Yes. Information Technology is trying to address issues with iChatAV and other videoconferencing applications.
10. Where is the firewall installed?
    The firewall is installed near the edge of Rice’s network, between the campus and Rice’s Internet Services Providers. Although the overall design is very complex, the drawing below shows the basic components.

Simple firewall installation example