Introduction

Thanks to recent advances in electronics, it has become possible to implement high-speed wireless networks at a reasonable cost. Although there are several different standards, IEEE802.11b is the de facto standard for both residential and office environments. (Note that this kind of wireless connectivity is completely different from cellular and similar schemes.) Also, IEEE802.11g is poised to gain in popularity once it becomes available. Two parts are needed for you to use a Wireless LAN (WLAN):

1. Your laptop or PDA must have a wireless card. These are usually PC-cards (PCMCIA), but may come in different form factors, with or without external antennas. When purchasing an 802.11b card, make sure it either supports 11 Mbps data rates, or supports IEEE 802.11 DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum). The card should also be able to support 128-bit encryption at 11 Mbps. Generally cards from established manufacturers, such as Avaya, Cisco, Linksys etc. have better performance and better software and end-user support.
2. You must be within the coverage area of an Access Point which provides access to the wired network.

Security

Wireless technology is inherently insecure. Never send any sensitive information over a wireless network unless you are certain that it is protected by additional encryption (such as SSH or SSL). Despite being based on spread spectrum technology, and occasionally marketed as "secure", WLANs are trivially easy to eavesdrop, even by non-USF affiliates outside the building or immediate area. Please contact your local tech support for more information on data security issues pertaining to your use of the network.

Encryption

IEEE802.11 allows for the use of encryption. You will have to contact the maintainer of the access point you wish to use for information on setting your encryption keys. We encourage the use of encryption, but want to remind you that these encryption schemes can be circumvented. Just because you are using wireless encryption doesn't mean that your information is safe.

Setup Instructions

Please refer to the instructions and support contacts provided by the card manufacturer to install your WLAN card and necessary drivers. Your computer should be set up to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP). During the first time you use your wireless connection, you have to register your wireless card. This process is identical to the one you use when registering to use a public laptop port on campus. Please see this page for detailed instructions on the registration process.

Additional Information

We recommend using devices complying with the Wi-Fi consortium criteria. Their website also has technical documents on the wireless LAN standard.