Network Bandwidth Quotas
Why There are Bandwidth Quotas
You have certain very important and specific personal responsibilities under the University's Computer and Acceptable Use Policy.
These include not obstructing others' use of the network by consuming excessive amounts of system resources, including network bandwidth.
To maintain network performance CUIT has implemented an automated network bandwidth quota system, described below. Individual computers may be limited in either the inbound or outbound direction. Limits are imposed only on off-campus traffic to or from the Internet. Traffic on the University's internal network is not restricted in any way. Internet2 traffic is also unrestricted.
The parameters of this system may be changed without prior notice in order to ensure proper functioning of the network for the greater University community.
See Bandwith Quotas and Network Performance for more information on the quotas.
Outbound and Inbound Bandwidth Quota Implementations
Each host computer on the Columbia network is assigned two quotas. One quota affects outbound usage, i.e., data sent to the Internet. The second affects inbound usage, i.e., data downloaded from the Internet. A host exceeding either limit in a given hour will have its bandwidth in that direction restricted to a lower rate for the remainder of the hour and the hour following if excessive bandwidth use continues.
The quotas change from time to time in order to allow the highest traffic levels compatible with the overall performance of the network.
Checking Current Quotas and Your Quota Status
You may check the current hourly quotas and whether the computer you are currently using is or has been limited at Bandwidth Quota Check.
If you find that your host is often exceeding either quota and do not know why, please check to make sure your host is
- Not running a p2p application such as KaZaA set up for unlimited serving of your files, or
- Has not been compromised by a worm or virus.
Exceptions for Legitimate Servers
If you run a server that has a legitimate academic or University business need to for greater Internet bandwidth, it will be added to the list of exceptions. In consultation with University-wide IT staff, most university, school and departmental servers that need to have already been placed on the exceptions list. If you are responsible for a web, streaming media, or other file server that you would like added to this list, please contact your local IT group, if you have one, or notify CUIT by using the request form at Network Quota Exception Request.