LAN Information
An FAQ on our LAN Parties
What is a LAN Party?
A LAN party is an event where everyone brings their computer to a big room to all play games together and eat unhealthy amounts of junk food.
What does LAN stand for?
LAN stands for Local Area Network which is what we are all connected to while at these events.
It basically means we're all connected by ethernet cables for superfast connection speeds.
How often do LANs take place?
There is generally 1 LAN per term.
How long do they last?
Our LANs all last 48 hours (Friday evening to Sunday Evening).
Do I have to be there the whole time?
No! Whilst there will always be an exec presence at LAN, UWCS does not condone staying up for extended periods of time.
Can I sleep at LAN?
You cannot sleep at LAN (security don't like it)
If you intend to attend a large proportion of LAN, please make sure to shower before the event.
What does UWCS provide?
A room, tables, chairs, and the network
Network cables: For connecting to the network
A music server attendees can queue YouTube videos to
Sometimes we are able to bring out our VR Headset (the Index), and other consoles from Friday Night Gaming
Sometimes exec, or other members, bring board games with them - feel free to bring your own, but we can't guarantee space for them
What doesn't UWCS provide?
Computers/games: Sometimes we provide free-to-use gaming laptops curtesy of our sponsors; however unless we state otherwise, assume you have to provide your own computer and games
What should I bring?
Hardware
- Base unit with installed Network Card
- Monitor (one monitor only, due to limited space)
- Keyboard
- Mouse (+ mat)
- Headphones
- NOTE: With 60+ computers in one room, speakers are not permitted
at LANs
- If you want to play music we do have a music server.
- NOTE: With 60+ computers in one room, speakers are not permitted
at LANs
- Joystick, steering wheel, or any other peripherals you require
- Mobile phone
- Any cables your devices require
- PSU Power lead
- Monitor Power lead (if required)
- Mains adaptor (4-way minimum - a maximum of 2 sockets per person)
Other
- Money: For food and drinks from the local cafes, outlets, and supermarkets.
- Food and drink: If you don't want to go out to buy it
- Appropriate clothing
- It gets warm in the summer, and cold at night
- A pillow
- Comfy
- Feel free to leave it at LAN while you go home to sleep
- Yourself!
- In a reasonable state
- Sleepy is fine
- In a reasonable state
My question isn't answered here...
That's not a question, but you can email our gaming coordinator at
gaming-coordinator@uwcs.co.uk, or ask any of the exec on our
Discord by pinging @Gaming Coordinator.
You can also get in touch on Instagram,
TwitterX, or
IRC.
History of LAN music servers
"One of the LAN traditions is the music server. The main LAN computer - dijkstra - powers LAN and also a web interface to which members can queue whatever YouTube video they like. As you can imagine, this resolves in an 'interesting' mixture of content - from actual good music to horrible outdated memes.
Read more >>