Networking & Telecommunications | Idaho State University

Wireless Network FAQ

Will the Wireless LAN replace my current "wired" connection?

Wireless connectivity gives mobility and flexibility, however, it is not as robust or secure as a wired connection. Wireless technology is evolving but is a shared technology. What that means is, everyone using the wireless connection in your building is competing for the same resource. The more users, the slower the response. It is also less secure and susceptible to many types of interference. We do not recommend replacing a hard wired network connection with a wireless connection in offices or instructor podiums.

What type of coverage can I expect in each building?

Each building is different. One time funds are being used to expand wireless capability on campus. The system is not designed or funded to cover offices or classrooms in a manner that allows an entire classroom to connect to the wireless network at the same time. Coverage is dependant on building construction, where you are in proximity to an Access Point, the type of card you have, and how many users are associated to the Access Point you are associated to. The wireless network was designed using Cisco Systems equipment set to 50mw of power. Many wireless cards on the market today are only capable of 30mw.

There is no guaranty of coverage, usability, security or reliability. The campus wireless network was installed with enterprise quality equipment, however, there are many factors outside the University's control. Think of the wireless LAN like you do a cellular phone. You put up with noisy or distorted conversations and dropped calls as a trade-off for convenience, flexibility and mobility. You know the quality is not perfect, but you are willing to accept the limitations in exchange for mobility. With a cellular phone you can hear when there are problems with the connection. With a wireless LAN you cannot hear connection problems, but you can experience them. In other words, sometimes it works well, sometimes it does not, and it does not work everywhere.

Can I connect to the Wireless Network outside or between buildings?

The Hutchinson Quadrangle, "the Quad," is the only outside area with good wireless coverage. There may also be other outside areas on-campus with usable signal caused from building "bleed-over," however, this is not supported.

What frequency does the Wireless Network use?

2.4 Ghz and 5 Ghz

Which wireless standard is being used?

IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g

IEEE 802.11 is a set of standards for wireless local area network (WLAN) computer communication, developed by the IEEE LAN/MAN Standards Committee IEEE 802 in the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz public spectrum bands. 802.11b/g uses a direct sequence spread spectrum signaling method. 802.11a uses the 5 GHz U-NII band, which offers 8 non-overlapping channels rather than the 3 offered in the 2.4 GHz ISM frequency band.
(from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE_802.11)

I have been told that a microwave oven or cordless telephone can interfere with a wireless LAN.

IEEE 802.11b/g WLAN operates at 2.4 Ghz
Microwave ovens operate at 2.45 Ghz
Cordless phones operate at 900Mhz, 2.4 Ghz and 5.8 Ghz

Tests confirm that microwave ovens, Blue tooth and 2.4 Ghz phones do interfere with 802.11b/g WLANs. The frequency spectrum in which WLANs operate is regulated by the FCC, however, they are not coordinated or licensed. As such, wireless LANs are vulnerable to inference from other technologies and wireless devices using the same spectrum. This is of particular concern now that the wireless LAN has become ubiquitous on campus. Most complaints are the result of cordless phones or personal "rouge" wireless access points. (a rouge access point is defined as a personal wireless router broadcasting a wireless signal on campus.)

NOTE: Due to disruptions to the wireless LAN caused by interference, 2.4 Ghz cordless phones and rouge access points are not authorized on campus.

What wireless equipment is being used?

Cisco 1100 & 1200 Access Points.

Is my wireless transmission secure?

We are using Service Set Identification (SSID) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) to mitigate exposure, however, as with all wireless technologies there is a risk of interception and interpretation of your transmission.

What type of encryption is being used?

WEP encryption is being used.

What kind of network card do I need?

Any 802.11b/g card will work. Some cards are better than others. In other words, you will get what you pay for. Less expensive cards will operate at 30mw of power, while others operate at 100mw. Most notebooks come wireless ready today.

How do I get access to the Wireless Network?

Contact the Computer Center Help Desk. You will need to have an ISU Computer Account and register your wireless network card MAC address for authentication.

Is it true I can check out a Wireless Notebook PC?

Yes, they are available at the Rendezvous Drop-In computer lab, Student Union Information Desk, and Library Computer Lab.

How do I get help?

If you have difficulty setting up your personal computer to use the Wireless Network , or need help installing a network interface card, browser, or any other related problems, the Computer Center Help Desk is available to assist you. Simply dial x4357 (HELP) on your campus telephone.

Idaho State University