Wireless Networking

CNS supports a fully integrated wireless network in many campus locations. All Computer Initiative laptops are configured for wireless access with the 2004, 2005, and 2006 computers capable of 802.11b/g networking.

Current Wireless Coverage:

All the following buildings have complete coverage in interior classroom spaces.

Questions and Answers

1. What is wireless networking, anyway?

Wireless networking uses radio waves for accessing the Drew Network instead of wires. This means you don't have to plug in to a network jack to connect, as long as a wireless access point is within radio range. An access point is a radio transmitter that connects with a regular network cable to the Drew network and allows wireless computers to connect to the network.

The advantages to wireless are the ability to connect to the network from anywhere in a room or building without having a network jack nearby. Connections can also be made outdoors if there is access point coverage. The main disadvantage of wireless networking is that it is slower than wired connections, and while the difference is not usually noticeable for normal web surfing, it is recommended that classes using the network in class use wired classrooms whenever possible.

2. How were priorities of buildings determined?

Buildings were prioritized based on amount of open public space not currently served by wired connections, relevance to the academic program, as well as usefulness for such things as outdoor lecturing. While there is demand for installing wireless in student residence halls, we will do that after public and academic spaces as budget and time permits.

3. What is the budget for installing the wireless network?

Initial installs were funded by state funds, and Hall of Science and Arts Center installs were funded by a Verizon grant. CNS now has a small maintenance and upgrade budget, and as access points reach three or four years of age they will be upgraded to the latest current standards.

4. I don't currently have an access card. How do I get one?

All Drew-provided laptops have their own wireless cards either integrated or supplied. If you're using your own laptop you will need to get a card that supports the 802.11b or 802.11g standard. While any access card should work, CNS does not support connectivity issues with non Drew laptops or wireless interfaces.

4. I've heard a lot about wireless security. What are you doing to make sure Drew's wireless installation is secure?

It is our goal to make our wireless network as secure as our wired network. Users must authenticate via a Web page before accessing the Internet from the wireless network.

Web sites with SSL encryption will be just as safe on the wireless network as they are on the wired network, and can be used with the same comfort as you would from a wired connection. Drew Mozilla confiugrations for email use encryption for communications, and passwords are encrypted when connecting to the network. It is your responsibility to make sure confidential traffic is encrypted and managed effectively

5. Who is working on the wireless networking project?

Wireless installs and support are primarily handled by Christopher Stave and David Wilson