It's every student's nightmare when the fast Internet connection he or she takes for granted slows down to speeds similar to those that were typical when the world first got on the Web.

So it's not surprising that some students were up in arms when their Internet connection was slower than usual earlier this semester.

Information Technology Services officials said they recently reinstated controls limiting Internet traffic in the residence halls, after Penn State's Internet service provider began having problems in January. As a result, the restrictions were lifted for almost three months.

According to Rescom's Web site, www.rescom.psu.edu, before the limits were imposed, 65 percent of network bandwidth was being consumed by residence hall students, who only make up about 12 percent of the total university population.

This recent crackdown on the cap limit has created somewhat of a stir among on-campus residents. Students have been complaining because of a slower connection speed to access the Web.

They say that they are paying for unlimited Internet, so why should the university penalize students for enjoying this benefit, right?

However, a bandwidth cap is necessary to ensure a fully functioning university network.

Under the new cap, students can still download 1.5 gigabytes, which is equivalent to about 375 songs or a couple episodes of Family Guy.

This is a reasonable level, because, at least in theory, who has the time to download 375 songs each week?

The bandwidth cap also allows each department or academic unit to have its full share of Internet access. Students would complain more if it took them two hours to schedule a class or their professors could not upload assignments on the Angel course management system.

Students need to be aware that although they are an important part, they only make up one part of the Penn State community.

The university's response was reasonable.

Although, students in residence halls are paying the fee for adequate Internet service on campus, a line must be drawn to ensure everyone receives quality service.