Data Networking: Wireless Networking
What is wireless networking?
Wireless networking is an initiative at UNC to increase the convenience and flexibility of computer-based communication, learning and research. The wireless network enables you to connect your laptop to the campus network and the Internet from a variety of locations campus wide without having to plug in a data cable. While all buildings on campus have access to the wired network, there are many locations, such as conference rooms, the Pit, or large public work areas, where providing access to the wireless network is more practical than installing numerous individual ports to connect to the wired network. The wireless network supplements the existing wired network and gives you more flexibility in choosing a connection location. This is especially convenient on warm, sunny autumn days when you might prefer to do your online research outside rather than inside the library.
Where can I use wireless networking?
Wireless networking hubs are being installed in various locations across campus. In addition to classrooms, hubs have been installed in some libraries and public spaces. See our list of Wireless Access Points for wireless locations on campus. Note that while wireless hubs are located in the buildings listed, not every location within these buildings will have wireless access. Likewise, many outside locations around and between these buildings will have wireless access. Access often depends on environmental factors such as building material or wall placement.
How can I get started with wireless networking?
The Carolina Computing Initiative (CCI) laptops issued beginning with the 2002-03 academic year come with an integrated wireless adapter. For setup instructions, information and tips on using wireless at UNC-CH see Connecting to the UNC Network - Step 3: Wireless Setup.
Caution
Wireless users should be aware that data travelling on the wireless network is not as secure as data travelling on the wired network. Since wireless is a "shared bandwidth" technology, it needs to be thought of like a postcard. While it is illegal for people at the post office to read your postcards, that doesn't mean it's not easy to do. If you want to transmit private information (like passwords or credit cards) via the wireless network, make sure the web site to which you are sending that information is secure (i.e. the URL starts with "https" instead of "http"). While chances of data being "sniffed" (or accessed) on the wireless network are slim, using the wireless network does pose a slightly higher security risk than using the wired network.
Here are some useful things to remember when using the wireless network:
- Wireless coverage can vary greatly within a couple of feet depending on conditions.
- Users without the integrated wireless adapter should not leave their wireless cards in their machines when not in use. Bumping the antenna can damage the card and/or computer.
- Wireless networking is not intended to replace wired connections. Wireless is a low bandwidth shared network technology. If you need high bandwidth or a fast connection, use a wired ethernet connection.
- Sending data over the airwaves is not secure unless the site you are visiting begins with https: or you are using encrypted software like SSH or SecureCRT.
- Check the wireless listings regularly to see if new sites have been added.
Information Technology Services (ITS) Wireless Networking Policies
As ITS Networking has been mandated by the University to manage the campus network, in order to ensure reliability, integrity and interoperability, it is also the responsibility of ITS Networking to ensure the integrity and appropriate use of the campus “radio space” in terms of wireless networking. Schools and departments at UNC-Chapel Hill are not permitted to install their own wireless infrastructure or “do their own thing” without fully coordinating with ITS Networking. Consult the ITS Wireless Networking Policy Statement for a full explanation of policies and procedures.
