Wireless (WiFi) has developed an interest and imagination for new ways of doing things. An untethered laptop or handheld computer does provide mobility and freedom, but the high reliability and performance you expect from the wired network does not automatically apply to the wireless network. In fact, WiFi signals in the air are subject to interference by many environmental factors such as cordless phones, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices and wireless surveillance cameras making it difficult to guarantee the quality of a wireless connection. Please consult with NST and give careful consideration before developing any project depending on the wireless network.
On the other hand, there are cases where the convenience of network access without wires is practical. These documents will help you get started with using and understanding wireless network access on the MUSC campus. You can also read about the overall Wireless Plan for MUSC.
The MUSC wireless network continues to grow and requires the cooperation of everyone in order to make this service reliable and effective. We have developed policies and guidelines for all to follow. While wireless appears simple and easy (as it should), there are many supporting technologies and considerations that must work together in order to make this service successful campus-wide.
NST has recently completed a campus-wide assessment of wireless and upgraded wireless APs with multi-band radios (supporting 802.11a/b/g standards), increased wireless coverage and reliability by deploying additional APs on campus, and upgraded wireless controllers to provide centralized monitoring and management of the MUSC wireless network.
Project announcements
NST is currently working on plans to add additional authentication services (PEAP) for wireless to allow PCs and mobile devices running Windows to use native 802.1x clients to connect to the wireless network. This service is expected to be available in the Fall.
802.1x Client availability
802.1x clients provide secure (authenticated and encrypted) wireless access to the MUSC network. This is necessary to protect sensitive data from being exposed and protect the MUSC network from unauthorized access. Please see the MUSC Wireless Security Guide for more information about the Odyssey 802.1x client.
Wireless APs are centrally managed like all other parts of MUSC's network infrastructure. Please do not configure or install wireless access points on the MUSC network. Unauthorized APs (rogues) detetected on the network will be removed by NST.
Security
Wireless networking has many inherent security problems. MUSC has an interest in preventing unauthorized access to its network and protecting sensitive information. Please read the MUSC Wireless Security Guide, to learn more about securing wireless connections.
Performance
Wireless performance is rarely as good as the specifications: 11-54 Mbit/sec shared bandwidth. Signal strength, interference and congestion are common factors that reduce available bandwidth. The convenience of wireless may out weigh its negative performance characteristics. But remember that your wired connection is far superior when it comes to data throughput.
