FAQ - KU Wireless Zones

What is a Wireless LAN?
A Wireless LAN (WLAN) is a 802.11 networking framework in which computers and other network devices communicate with each other by first going through an Access Point (AP). A KU Wireless access point is part of the network infrastructure which allows wireless computers to communicate with each other and also communicate with the wired network systems.

What is an Access Point (AP)?
An Access Point is a hardware device that acts as a communication "hub" for users of a wireless computers, allowing them to connect to the wired Local Area Network (LAN). See the IT Resources Map for locations and maps to APs at KU.

What do I need to do to keep my computer secure on the wireless network?
Keeping a computer secure on a wireless network is the same as keeping a computer secure on a wired network. One must keep the computer virus protection up-to-date, install any patches for the computers operating system and keep the password(s) safe and secret. The official Information Systems wireless policy can be found at http://www.policy.ku.edu/it/Wireless LAN Policy 3-25-04.doc

What is an SSID?
The service set identifier or SSID differentiates one Wireless LAN from another, so devices attempting to connect to a specific Wireless LAN must use the same SSID in order to connect. An SSID is also referred to as a Wireless LAN "name."

What is Error: Server not found?
If you receive a “Server Not Found” error, make sure your wireless card is set to automatically receive a Service Set Identifier (SSID). You may need to manually enter the SSID or modify any wireless profiles applied to your wireless network card.

For example, the SSID for the Kansas Union is JAYHAWK. (The name of the SSID is case sensitive so make sure you type JAYHAWK in all caps.)

Exact instructions for entering the SSID are not contained in this document because each network card has a unique configuration dialog box. For general instructions, see below:

1. Double-click the icon for wireless networking located on the lower right of Task Bar (systray).
2. The SSID is generally located within this dialog box. (You may need to access another tab or click another button to view the SSID input box.)
3. Even if "JAYHAWK" (without quotes) displays in the SSID input box, you may need to retype the SSID.

I have a computer with a static IP address, what can I do?
If your computer is set to use a static IP address, you will need to modify these settings for your network connection. Your wireless card must be set to obtain an automatic IP (DHCP) in order to access the KU network.

What is a wireless network card? How do I get one?
A wireless network card is a small hardware device that allows your computer to connected to wireless networks. (Some cards plug into an external slot on the computer; others are internal, housed inside the the computer itself.) Many newer laptops and handheld computers are sold with internal wireless network cards included; consult your computer's manual or contact your computer dealer's customer support for information. You can purchase a wireless network card at the KU Union Bookstore or other computer/office product retailers.

Who manages the KU Wireless Zones?
Information Technology deploys and manages the KU Wireless Zones. For more information about deploying a KU Wireless Zone in your department/building see the website at technology.ku.edu/network/services/data/wireless/.

Are there any health and/or safety concerns with wireless technology?
In past years there has been extensive research on exposure to radio frequencies. Manufacturers of wireless LAN equipment must meet stringent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and industry regulations for safety. The output power of wireless LAN equipment is much less than that of a cellular phone. Since radio waves dissipate rapidly over distance, there is very little exposure to radio frequencies in the area covered by a wireless LAN. No adverse health affects have been attributed to wireless LANs. For more information, visit the Wireless LAN Association web site.

Additionally, the FCC, with its action in ET Docket 96-8, adopted a safety standard for human exposure to RF electromagnetic energy emitted by FCC-certified equipment. Wireless LAN equipment specified by Information Technology meets the uncontrolled environmental limits found in these standards. Proper installation and operation of this equipment will result in user exposure substantially below the FCC recommended limits.

Therefore, it is recommended when using a laptop with a PC card client adapter that the adapter's integrated antenna be positioned more than 2 inches (5 cm) from your body or nearby persons during extended periods of transmitting or operating time. If the antenna is positioned less than 2 inches (5 cm) from the user, it is recommended that the user limit exposure time.

For Access points, dipole antennas should be located a minimum distance of 7.9 inches (20 cm) or more from the body of all persons. High-gain, wall-mount, or mast-mount antennas should be located a minimum distance of 12 inches (30 cm) or more from the body of all persons. All NTS installed WLAN equipment meet these requirements.

What security concerns are there with using wireless technology?
There are two aspects to security. First is security of the network itself. Second, is security of the data crossing the network. In order to properly secure the network itself, KU requires all prospective Wireless Zone users to authenticate using a valid KU Online ID and Password. Therefore it can be determined if a prospective user is authorized to use University resources. (read more...)

Can I print when I am connected to the KU Wireless Zones?
At this time you cannot print from the KU Wireless system to public printers in campus computer labs or in the Libraries. However, faculty and staff with access to Novell Iprint services can print to their departmental printers. Please contact your departmental system administrator or technical staff for more information.

Is there a KU policy for the use of the KU Wireless Zones?
The official Information Systems wireless policy can be found at http://www.policy.ku.edu/it/networking.shtml

What if I have problems?
Get Help from the IT Customer Service Center 785/864-8080 or email itcsc@ku.edu

How can my department/building get a KU Wireless Access Zone?
Contact your Network Administrator or your Technical Liaison to request a KU Wireless Zone. If you are a Network Administrator/Technical Liaison and you wish to learn more about what it takes to deploy a KU Wireless zone visit the wireless information site.