Connecting to the Wireless Network on Campus

What is it?
An 802.11 (WiFi) wireless LAN connected to the University’s Internet connection.

Where is it?
The wireless network has expanded greatly in the past year. To date, wireless access points cover the area of Engineering, Student Union, the library, Briggs, Commerce and Finance, Ford Life Sciences, Chemistry, Architecture, and the new College of Health Professions. Because the signal extends outside of the buildings, part of parking lot F is also covered by the wireless access points. Extra coverage areas include, the courtyard between Briggs building of Liberal Arts and the Library, and the Fountain Lounge Area between the Student Union and the Library. The Quad Commons, Quads, and Shiple are also covered but Holden and Reno are not. For a map of wireless areas see the Wireless Access Map.

What can I do with it?
Anyone with a laptop or handheld device with a WiFi card can connect to the Internet without a hardwire connection.

What kind of card do I need?
Any WiFi or 802.11 network card should work with the network. Currently, the University has two types or wireless coverage zones.
The zone that encompasses Engineering, Student Union, Library, and Briggs is an 802.11 b only. The zone covering Commerce and Finance, Health Professions, and 1st floor of Lansing Reilly is an 802.11 b/g (with 802.11a hotspots near each individual access point.) These different lettered wireless cards will determine the speed at which your laptop or handheld device will negotiate with the wireless network. In the 802.11b area, this speed will be no greater than 11 mbps and in the 802.11b/g area this speed will be up to 54 mbps.

A wireless 802.11b/g card is recommended, as it will work in both areas and the switch time when crossing between zones will be much smoother than connecting with an 802.11b only card. Wireless 802.11a cards will work in the b/g wireless areas but only near individual access point hot spots.

Order of Wireless Card Functionality:
1. 802.11b/g
2. 802.11g
3. 802.11b
4. 802.11a

UDM has tested the Cisco Aironet 350 and the Lucent Orinoco cards, as well as all LinkSys wireless cards. Pretty much any wireless card will work on the network. WiFi PC cards range in price starting at $30.00. Adapters for handhelds and desktop machines typically run a bit more. These cards may be purchased at most consumer electronics and computer stores.

Do I need special settings?
Set up your software for the following:
• No proxy server
• Obtain IP address from server (DHCP)
• No encryption or Public Key
• SSID should be left blank

If you have a setting for Infrastructure vs. Ad Hoc, set your card to Infrastructure.

Setup:
Please refer to your manufacturers instructions for your operating system to connect
to the wireless network.
Helpful Info At : Microsoft Broadband Networking