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Connecting to Dartmouth Resources from Off Campus

Many of Dartmouth's computing and information resources are available from off campus, although you need a connection to the Internet to access them. Some basic resources you'll need include:

We also recommend using a secure connection through a virtual private network (VPN) (authentication required).

One local ISP, Fairpoint Communications, has established a discounted Internet plan for Dartmouth employees. For details, see the Dartmouth Affinity Plan.

Connecting to the Internet from Off Campus

Most computers on campus are connected to the Internet via an Ethernet cable or a wireless connection. If you are at another location that has an Ethernet or wireless network, you may be able to configure your computer for that network. If you need information on configuring your computer for their network, contact their Computing Help Desk.

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Using Another Internet Service Provider

While Computing Services does not provide support for home networks or for connections through other Internet Service Providers (ISP), there are several in the local area or around the world that can be used to access Dartmouth resources. These include:

Recommendations and Cautions

Before you enter into an agreement with an ISP, we recommend you confirm:

  • An ISP's ability to support your computer model and operating system (whether it's Macintosh, Windows, or UNIX) 
  • Their ability to help troubleshoot any connectivity problems you may have when trying to connect to their network

Also, be aware that some ISPs do "address translation" which will prevent Kerberos from working. If you are trying to access a Kerberos-authenticated system from a connection that goes through an ISP, try starting a VPN session, then accessing the system rather than trying to use a Kerberos ticket.

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Connecting to the Internet While Traveling

Some departments contract with outside Internet Service Providers for calling cards that allow their staff members to dial a toll-free number to access the Internet while they are traveling for that department. Check with your department to see if this service has been arranged. 

Finding a Wi Fi Zone

Many major airports, hotels, restaurants, cafes, conference hosts, and other organizations now offer Internet access to travelers. As the majority of these are wireless in nature, sites such as the Wi-Fi ZONE Finder can help you search for a connection point near your destination. While normally offered for a fee, some organizations are now offering free Internet access to their patrons. Check with the individual organization for details.

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Using Blitz

The easiest way to access the new Blitz system when you are traveling is to start a web browser and go to https://bwa.dartmouth.edu.

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Using BlitzMail

With BlitzMail installed on your computer and an established Internet connection (no matter where you are), when you start BlitzMail, you will automatically be connected to your BlitzMail server at Dartmouth. 

WebMail

If you don't have BlitzMail installed on your computer, you can use an application called WebMail to connect to your Dartmouth e-mail account.

  • To access your e-mail account via WebMail, once you have an Internet connection, start the web browser on your computer and go to https://webmail.dartmouth.edu/.

Download BlitzMail

If you would prefer to use the regular version of BlitzMail, you can download a copy from the Software Downloads web page.

BlitzMail on Your Cell Phone

You can also get your e-mail through your cell phone or PDA (Palm, Blackberry, Treo, iPhone, iPad, etc.). Most will require you to have an Internet Data plan with your cell phone service provider which may have additional monthly fees. For information on how to configure e-mail for these devices, contact your service provider.

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Library Resources for Off Campus Users

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Accessing Resources from behind Firewalls

Some Internet service providers (ISPs) use firewalls to prevent unauthorized people from accessing their network. If you are trying to access BlitzMail on the Dartmouth network from behind a firewall, the following information may allow your ISP to resolve any problems you may be having.

BlitzMail uses the following ports: 

  • DND: 902 (TCP)
  • Mail server: 2151 (TCP)
  • Bulletins: 119 (TCP)
  • Bulletins: 1119 (TCP)
  • Notify: 2154 (UDP)
  • Kerberos: 37 (TCP)
  • Kerberos: 750 (TCP)
  • Kerberos: 913 (TCP)
  • SideCar time sync: 37 (UDP)

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Last Updated: 11/14/11