Wireless Networking

Introduction

The School of Law has expanded its wireless network to include the 6 large classrooms on floors 1-3. The wireless network allows students, faculty, and staff members to use their laptop to check e-mail and surf the Web without connecting to a wired, Ethernet port. The system is built on IEEE 802.11b (Wi-Fi) industry standards and has the capacity to be upgraded to the 802.11g standard. In order to use the wireless network, you need a wireless card that is either 802.11b or 802.11g compatible and a GMU email email account.

Security

Access to the wireless network is limited to authorized GMU users through a secure authentication system that requires that users log-in using their GMU email account. The wireless system does not use WEP or any other encryption, so it is possible that information transmitted over the network can be intercepted by others. This is also true of the law school's public wired network. To learn how to secure your personal information and data, go to How to Secure Your Computer. NOTE: Websites having a URL that starts with “https://” are generally safe to use, since the data stream is encrypted with SSL. However, you should check the name and expiration date of the site’s certificate to make sure it is valid (click on the padlock icon at the bottom of your browser).

Coverage

Wireless access is available to all of the following areas of the building:

Atrium
Courtrooms
Cafeteria
Large Classrooms, 120, 121, 221, 225, 329, 332
Library (all floors)
Smaller Classrooms 224, 347, 348
Third Floor Student Offices
Conference Rooms 215, 412
Deans' Suite, 2nd floor
Law Faculty Offices, 3rd and 4th floors

If you are in an area of the building where you are not getting a good wireless connection, when you have an opportunity please send an email with the details including the exact location to lawsupport@gmu.edu.

Recommended Wireless Cards

Make sure that your card is Wi-Fi certified by going to this site: Wi-Fi Alliance Certified Product Listing. All Wi-Fi certified 802.11b & 802.11g products should work with Mason wireless service.

How to Set-Up Your Wireless Connection

See the ITU Wireless Network Login Guide.

Other Information

How to Secure My Computer
Wireless Networking at GMU
University Policy Number 1302 on Wireless Networking

Questions, Problems?

If you have any questions or need help with your wireless card, please contact Law School Computing Support at 993-4855 or lawsupport@gmu.edu. The Computing Services Support Center (Room 362 of the Law Library) is generally open M-F, 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.