frequently asked questions
- What is a wireless network?
- What wireless IS NOT...
- What is SMC "Wireless Zone"?
- Where are the Wireless Zone locations?
- How do I access SMC Wireless Zone?
- What's my password to log on to Wireless Zone?
- Do I have to log out of Wireless Zone when I'm done using it?
- Does it cost me anything to use SMC Wireless Zone?
- What is SMC's Service Set Identifier (SSID, also called "network name") for use on campus?
- How do I install and configure my card for use on campus?
- Do I need any special network configuration to use Wireless Zone?
- What if I'm running Windows 95?
- I have a MAC. Will wireless work with it?
- How secure is Wireless Zone?
- Can I check my SMC E-mail account through Wireless Zone?
- Can I connect to my file server (M drive) while using Wireless Zone?
- Can I connect to Blackboard while using the Wireless Zone?
- Can I connect to GaelXpress while using the Wireless Zone?
- Can I connect to SMCnet while using the Wireless Zone?
- Will SMC be expanding the Wireless Zone network?
- What are the Hardware specifications?
- How fast is the wireless connection?
- Can I install my own access point in the dorm?
- Where do I get help if I am having problems accessing Wireless Zone?
What is a wireless network?
A wireless network is a computer network that allows users to be free of network cables. A wireless network uses radio waves to transmit and receive data and so enables a computer user to be more mobile -- you can be connected to the Internet indoors or outdoors.
The conversion from the wired network to the airwaves is performed by a device called an "access point." An access point contains a connection to the network, and a radio that communicates with wireless-capable computers. The signal can be strong enough to reach a computer up to 1000 feet from the access point; however, walls, shelves, furniture, etc., dramatically reduce the signal's range. Also, as you move further and further away from the access point, the amount of data bandwidth available will drop.
Where possible, access points are installed out of view, however, you can see what one looks like by visiting Saint Albert Hall Library--one is located near the top of the main stairway.
What wireless IS NOT
Wireless networking is not a replacement for wired networks. Although wireless networks provide greater flexibility and convenience, performance, reliability, and security is less than that of a wired network. Compare the difference between a wired network to a wireless network as you would between a "hard-line" telephone and a cell phone. Wireless networks are generally less secure than wired networks, so you may not want to conduct highly sensitive transactions across a wireless system.
What is SMC "Wireless Zone"?
SMC Wireless Zone is a series of wireless access points located throughout SMC campus. Currently there are seven locations, noted below. The plan is to gradually expand the wireless network to more locations.
Where are the Wireless Zone locations?
Currently, there are seven main Wireless Zone access areas:
| Access Points | Specific Areas |
| Garaventa Hall | |
| Dante Hall | |
| Sichel Hall | |
| Student Union | |
| Dryden Hall | * Oliver Hall (no access point but coverage from Dryden Hall) |
| Saint Albert's Hall Library | |
| Brousseau Hall | |
| Arcade |
|
| Galileo Hall |
|
| Roncolli Hall |
|
| McKeon Gym |
|
| Soda Center | |
| Filippi Academic Hall | |
 Look for the wireless zones logo around campus. |
|
How do I access SMC Wireless Zone?
First, you'll need a laptop computer with installed wireless network capabilities (such capabilities may come with the laptop, or you may have to install a wireless "card" and driver software). See our Wireless Zone Hardware Specification below for details. Then, when you are out in one of the Wireless Zone locations, turn on your computer, and your wireless interface software should detect the presence of a nearby access point. Depending on the wireless software you have, you will probably have to select the wireless network in the driver software the first time you connect, or you may need to set up smc-wifi as a preferred network firSaint Then start up a web browser, like Netscape or Internet Explorer. When your browser opens, you will be prompted to enter your SMC E-Mail username and password for authentication. Once this is done, you are ready to browse the web!
What's my password to log on to Wireless Zone?
Wireless Zone uses the same user name and password as your SMC E-Mail account. This is the same password you would use if logging on to one of the lab computers, or SMCnet. If you do not know this password, please visit the CTS Help Desk in Saint Albert Hall Library Computer Lab (Monday to Thursday, 8am - 8pm, Friday, 8am - 4:45pm, and Saturday, 10am - 3:45pm).
Do I have to log out of Wireless Zone when I'm done using it?
No. In general, whenever you log into something, you should log out properly. However, with Wireless Zone, turning off your machine or putting it to sleep is equivalent to logging off your session.
Does it cost me anything to use SMC Wireless Zone?
There is no charge to access Wireless Zone for members of the SMC community who have a valid network (E-mail) account.
What is SMC's Service Set Identifier (SSID, also called "network name") for use on campus?
smc-wifi (Note: All letters are in lower case--case is important)
How do I install and configure my card for use on campus?
Each card is different, so consult the documentation that came with your wireless card for initial setup. You may be required to enter the SSID, which is noted above.
Do I need any special network configuration to use Wireless Zone?
You will need to have your laptop configured to connect to a network, just as you would to connect to ResNet. Step by step directions are available starting on page 4 of the ResNet User's Guide, available on SMCnet, or at the C&TS Help Desk in Saint Albert's Hall. If your computer is already properly configured for network connection, then, other than the SSID, you do not need to enter any other special configuration.
What if I'm running Windows 95?
Wireless will still work, however you will need to have the Windows 95 CAB files installed in your computer or have the Windows 95CD. Your machine should also have motherboard supported USB ports.
I have a MAC. Will wireless work with it?
Yes. However, if you do not already have an Airport card, you should first make sure your Mac has an Airport card adapter slot installed and available before you buy an Airport card. Some older Mac’s cannot be upgraded for wireless.
How secure is Wireless Zone?
Wireless Zone requires authentication, which prevents use by unauthorized persons, but it is not a secure network, which is why we currently do not allow access to non-encrypted SMC network resources (such as your file server and Blackboard) that require user name and password. SMC Wireless Zone is simply another way for community members to connect to the Internet.
We block access to certain services from the Wireless Zone because those applications carry login information in the clear (unencrypted). Since wireless networks are EXTREMELY easy to sniff (wiretap), we exclude these services to prevent people from disclosing their passwords to would-be "wiretappers". Thus, only applications that do encrypt logins or do not require them are allowed on the wireless network.
You should use caution when conducting business on-line while connected through the Wireless Zone. If you are doing any financial transactions, or purchasing products on-line, be sure you are using a secure website; a secure website normally has an "s" after "http" (like where SMC web based mail is located).
Can I check my SMC E-mail account through Wireless Zone?
Yes. Once you are logged into the Wireless Zone, point your browser to: https://webmail.stmarys-ca.edu
You will be taken to the SMC web based E-Mail called "IMP". If you prefer to use your own E-mail client, such as Netscape/Mozilla Messenger, or Outlook Express, you will need to configure it for encrypted POP or IMAP. For example, in Mozilla, this can be enabled by just a few steps:
- Select "Edit"
- Choose "Mail" & Newsgroups Account
Under "server settings", enable the checkbox labeled "Use Secure Connection (SSL)".
Can I connect to my file server (M drive) while using Wireless Zone?
No. Currently, you cannot access shared network drives, such as your M drive, through Wireless Zone. This service will be provided in the future. However, faculty members who need access to the file server from a wireless laptop sooner can have it by installing VPN (virtual private network) software. Please contact the C&TS Help Desk for further information.
Can I connect to Blackboard while using the Wireless Zone?
Blackboard will soon be upgraded to a new version of software that will support encrypted traffic. Once this process is completed, Blackboard will be available through the Wireless Zone.
Can I connect to GaelXpress while using the Wireless Zone?
Yes. GaelXpress traffic is encrypted; therefore, it is supported over wireless.
Can I connect to SMCnet while using the Wireless Zone?
Yes. SMCnet traffic is encrypted; therefore, it is supported over wireless.
Will SMC be expanding the Wireless Zone network?
Yes. As noted above, SMC does plan on expanding the Wireless Network to include more locations, especially in other academic and public spaces.
What are the Hardware specifications?
You need a laptop either with built-in wireless technology or a PCI-slot where you can insert a wireless card (using the 802.11b or 802.11g protocol). We have no plan to support 802.11a. CTS recommends the following wireless connection cards:
- Lucent Technologies Orinoco Gold
- Cisco Systems 352
- Apple Airport (for MACs)
CTS recommends these particular cards because testing has proven them to be reliable and easy to use. Other wireless cards may be used, but if there are difficulties connecting to Wireless Zone with hardware that we have not tested previously, the CTS Help Desk and Network team may not be able to resolve the issue. However, most reputable wireless hardware manufacturers provide telephone and/or on-line help for configuration and connection issues.
How fast is the wireless connection?
All of the installed access points support the 802.11b protocol, which can transfer data at a rate between 2 to 11 Mbps, based on the size & source of the file, network traffic, and your proximity to the access point. The access points in Garaventa Hall also support the 802.11g protocol, with rates up to 54 Mbps. However, unless all users connected to one of these higher speed access points are using 802.11g hardware, the bandwidth will adapt down to the slower 802.11b standard.
Can I install my own access point in the dorm?
No. You will not be allowed to install your own access points in the residence halls. Installation of your own access point is prohibited by the Saint Mary's College Technology Use Policy. Violations of this policy may result in disconnection, loss of network privileges, and other disciplinary action by the Office of Student Conduct.
Where do I get help if I am having problems accessing Wireless Zone?
If you are having problems accessing Wireless Zone, go to the CTS Help Desk in Saint Albert's Hall Library Computer Lab (Monday to Thursday, 8am - 8pm, Friday, 8am - 4:45pm, and Saturday, 10am - 3:45pm) or call the Help Desk at x4266. You can also e-mail questions to helpdesk@stmarys-ca.edu.
