Wireless FAQ
Last Updated: September 12, 2017 3:19:27 PM PDT
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Expand section Using the wireless network
Who can use the wireless network?
UCSD affiliates (faculty, staff, and students) and guests of the university can use the network. The UCSD-PROTECTED service is recommended for affiliates and UCSD-GUEST for visitors.
Where can I use UCSD's wireless network?
Wireless service is available in most buildings and public areas at UCSD. The UCSD Medical Center also maintains a wireless service.
Which Macintosh platforms does UCSD's wireless network support?
UCSD supports iPhone, Mac OS X 10.5.x and 10.6.x and many 10.4.x machines. All patches must be installed, including those for Airport. To ensure your machine has the latest updates, run Software Updatefrom the Apple menu.
Does it matter how many people are using the wireless network at one time?
Yes. The network gets slower as more clients connect through the same wireless access point (AP). The capacity available in an area is a function of the number of APs, the physical environment, and the kinds of clients trying to use the service. Note: You will notice performance changes more easily on a wireless network than with a wired network connection.
Expand section Wireless cards
Does UCSD recommend a particular wireless card? Which wireless card(s) are supported?
Most Wi-Fi cards with current updates are supported. Check the manufacturer's website to make sure your card is updated. For questions or problems with Wi-Fi cards, contact your department's computing support staff .
Expand section Connecting to the network
How do I connect to the wireless network?
Is there a charge for establishing a wireless connection?
You don't need to pay a service charge because wireless service is funded by NGN. However, you may need to purchase a wireless card if you have an older machine. Newer machines come with wireless cards.
Do I have to log on (authenticate) every time I want to use wireless services?
Yes, you must log in daily if you're using the UCSD-GUEST network. No, if you're using the UCSD-PROTECTED network, but your machine must be set to save your username and password (cache your credentials - most machines are set to cache).
Can I do everything with a wireless connection that I could do with a wired connection?
No, not everything. Do not attempt to run a server from a wireless connection. Large file transfers are not appropriate from the wireless network. Wireless is an extension of the wired network, not a replacement.
How fast is a wireless connection?
Wireless provides a network connection slower than a wired Ethernet network. The performance of the network depends on many variables, including signal strength. The speed of your connection will probably drop as more users in your area connect.
Expand section Problems
I connected to the campus wireless service, but was directed to Blink. What happened?
The old "UCSD" wireless service, which was unencrypted, now redirects to the Wireless Overview page on Blink. To get wireless access, follow the instructions for UCSD-PROTECTED.
Why can't I establish a connection to the UCSD wireless network? I don't have a problem with other wireless networks.
Your DNS server and search domain settings may be incompatible with the UCSD network. Some wireless Internet providers require certain settings configured for their network. Before connecting to a new network, remove the DNS server and/ or search domain information from your wireless network preferences.
Why is my wireless connection disrupted more often than my wired network connection?
The dynamic nature of a wireless network's radio frequency is susceptible to obstructions such as walls, bookshelves, large metal objects, and trees. Microwave ovens, cordless phones, baby monitors, and plasma cutters also operate on the same frequency as the wireless access points and can cause interference as well. Incorrectly configured clients can also disrupt your wireless network connection.
Make sure you have installed all available patches for your PC wireless card. Check the manufacturer's website for the latest updates as older versions may not work with the campus network. Macintosh users should install all patches, including those for Airport. Run Software Update from the Apple menu. Note:The wireless network is not intended as a replacement for the wired network. If you are working from a fixed location, you should use a traditional Ethernet connection.
What should I do if I'm getting poor signal strength?
If you're in a building where wireless is supported but you're not getting a good connection because of poor signal strength, you should contact the IT Services Help Desk, (858) 246-4357.
Expand section Additional issues
How can I get a guest wireless account for a guest or conference attendee?
Can I set up my own wireless Access Point (AP) on campus?
In general, no. To set up a special/ researcher wireless AP, contact IT Servicesbefore you install your own wireless AP on campus, to avoid potential interference with UCSD's wireless network. You cannot deploy a wireless AP without IT Servicesapproval. Any wireless APs not deployed by IT Servicesor with IT Services's permission can be removed without notice. To request a special/ researcher wireless AP, complete a Customer Service Request (CSR), and choose Wireless from the Select a service menu.
For more information:
- Access, password, and computer configuration: See Wireless Overview, contact the ITS Service Desk, (858) 246-4357 or ext. 6-HELP, or visit us at AP&M 1313 (map), 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., weekdays.
- Requests for departmental installation and repair of wireless networks: Complete a Customer Service Request (CSR), and choose wireless from the Select A Service menu.