Wireless computing is a way for you to access the University network and the Internet without being tied down by wires and cables. With a compatible laptop you can roam within a wireless network service area and connect to e-mail,
mainframe applications, shared folders, printers, the World Wide Web and more.
The U of S wireless network has two wireless network services, an internal network service and a guest network service. The internal network is for employees, students and invited guests.
The guest network has been provided so that in addition to students and employees, the wireless network can be used by conference attendees and members of the general public.
The login method, computer configuration settings and services available are different for the two wireless network services.
In this Section
Features
Available to U of S and Visitors
Access to the wireless network is available to students, employees, individual invited guests, conference attendees and members of the general public. The method of access differs for the various groups.
Internal and Guest Services
The U of S wireless network has two wireless network services, an internal network service and a guest network service. The internal wireless network connects to the Internet from inside the U of S firewall and becomes part of the internal network.
The guest wireless network connects to the Internet from outside the U of S firewall.
Available Across Campus
Wireless Access Points or "hot spots" are available in many locations on campus, providing anytime, anywhere access to the wireless network.
Roaming
Computers can move easily across campus. Authentication, security and IP addresses will be preserved as much as possible as you move between access points. There are some
restrictions based on the speed of each access point and their distribution around the campus.
Speed
The University wireless network supports 802.11b (11 Mbps) and 802.11g (52 Mbps) in virtually all wireless locations. The small number of 802.11b-only areas are being upgraded to support 802.11g. Most locations also support 802.11a (52 Mbps). 802.11n
wireless service is not yet available on campus; however 802.11n clients will work with 802.11g wireless services.
Secure
ITS has implemented Cisco Clean Access (CCA) on the wireless network. CCA is a network security system that identifies whether networked devices, such as laptops, are compliant with the University network's security policies.
It also facilitates the repair of specific vulnerabilities, if found, before access to the network is permitted.
Vendor-independent Access
Virtually all laptops with wireless, and client-wireless adaptors, will work with the U of S wireless network service. No special hardware is required. Prior to summer 2005, access to the University wireless network required a Cisco-compatible wireless card.
This restriction was lifted and wireless cards from most vendors are now compatible with the wireless network.
