Email & Network Access * Wireless Networking

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Wireless Ethernet:

The Wireless ethernet provides internet access to mobile computers without connection cables. Instead, it uses radio communication between the computer and TC Access Points.

There are several versions of wireless ethernet in use today. TC's wireless ethernet is based on the IEEE 802.11g standard.  Although this is compatible with IEEE 802.11b, we encourage users to use the "g" standard, as the connection is much faster.

Why are we doing this?

The key advantage of wireless Ethernet is flexibility. Your PC does not have to be chained to a network jack. Network access can be found in places previously not available such as the TC cafeteria and Everett Lounge. Access to the network can be provided for less cost than with wired networks.

However, there are also some disadvantages which make this service complementary to our wired networks. Our wired networks will continue to provide higher performance and better security.

How fast is it?

The IEEE 802.11g standard has a nominal speed of 54 megabits per second (Mbps). However, depending on signal quality and how many other people are using the wireless ethernet through a particular Access Point, usable speed will be much less (on the order of 4 or 5 Mbps, which is still substantially faster than most dialup, cable and DSL modems). For more information on the g standard, click on the following link: http://standards.ieee.org/announcements/80211gfinal.html

Is it secure?

No, Wireless ethernet is insecure by default. Any user on the Wireless Local Area Network (LAN) can spy on unencrypted traffic from other wireless users. Wired connections on TC's campus are generally more secure when communicating with other TC servers, however when connecting to sites off-campus, only encrypted connections are secure. Users are advised to use Kerberos authentication, or SSL to connect to web pages and mail hosts, and SSHwhenever possible.  Use of telnet is no langer supported.

You may see literature saying that the 802.11g standard includes provisions for optional 40- or 128-bit link-level encryption over the air, however, current implementations require the encryption key to be shared by all users of the wireless LAN, effectively eliminating the usefulness of this security feature in an open campus environment.

Is it safe?

All devices on the market are approved by the FCC, which has a good public document on RF Safety.

Requirements and Setup

Your first resource should be our Connection Guides.

What kind of wireless card does TC support and recommend?

The TC wireless network is currently running the 802.11g protocol.  Wi-Fi compatible wireless cards of Type B or Type G both will work on the TC wireless network.

If a wireless access point is running the faster G protocol, if even one wireless device of Type B is connected to that access point, then all wireless devices will run at the slower 802.11 B speed. For that reason, we strongly recommend that new purchases of wireless cards be of Type G cards.

Will the wireless card conflict with my ethernet card/modem?

Both devices should function properly if you use one at a time. If you encounter problems, first make sure you have installed both cards according to the installation instructions that came with the modem/ethernet card and the wireless card, then contact the manufacturers for support.

Do I need to register my wireless card with hostmaster?

Yes. Before registering, you must verify that your computer is protected from viruses and other malicious attacks.  For more information on keeping your computer secure, click here.  If you are certain that your computer is protected, please click here and submit the registration form:

Can I request a static IP/hostname?

No, the Wireless ethernet only works with dynamically assigned IP addresses.

Troubleshooting?

First refer to the Troubleshooting section of the Connection Guides. If additional assistance is needed, students please call Academic Computing at x3302; faculty and staff please call the Helpdesk at x3300.

Using Wireless Ethernet on Campus

Where on campus can I connect with Wireless?

See our Coverage Map, and feel free to print this out.

What happens if I move around from zone to zone?

Your Wireless card will always try to connect to the stronger signal. As soon as another Access Point has a stronger signal your connection will switch, but continue uninterupted service.

What happens if I leave and then re-enter the coverage area?

Leaving the coverage area will destroy your connection. Upon re-entering, in unlikely circumstances, you may need to reboot your computer, however most of the time, you will be able to continue where you left off.

Will Appletalk/Microsoft File-Sharing work?

The CIS department only supports TCP/IP on the Wireless ethernet. This does not include AppleTalk, Microsoft File-Sharing, IPX/SPX, or NetBEUI.

What is the University policy on personal wireless networking on campus?

With the rapidly growing popularity of low cost wireless Ethernet come some obstacles to the proper operation and performance of this technology. Due to the shared nature of the rather small 2.4 GHz ISM band, we all must be aware of the potential negative effects of interfering wireless devices. Examples of wireless devices which can interfere, especially with the 2.4 GHz ISM band which is used for Wireless Ethernet include:

• 2.4 GHz spread spectrum cordless phones
• 2.4 GHz consumer short distance wireless video links
• Wireless Ethernet Access Points including the Apple Airport Base Station and the Macintosh computer operating as a software base station.
• Any computer operating in IEEE 802.11b Ad-Hoc mode
• Some scientific equipment.

Devices such as these should not be operated in Teachers College buildings without prior frequency coordination with CIS due to the interference they can cause with the campus wireless network infrastructure. Your cooperation is appreciated and will ensure an efficient and well-structured wireless network. 

Can I print?

No, there are currently no printers setup in the wireless access areas.

What if I have a question not listed here?

Students can call Academic Computing at x3302.  Faculty and staff can call the Helpdesk at x3300.