Changes to Wireless Lan Access on Campus

In order to provide a more secure wireless LAN environment on campus, two changes took place on January 6, 2003, which impacted all users of the University's wireless LAN.

1. As of January 6, 2003 a SSID, sometimes called network name, must be included in your PC card configuration. The SSID must match that of all public access points on campus in order to gain access to the UC network. The SSID will be given to you on the web page you receive when registering your wireless PC card. If you had registered your card before 1/6/03, you can 1) obtain the SSID from the Help Desk at 513-556-3785 or 2) re-register your card at /ucit/networking/login.cfm. Note the SSID is case sensitive.
   
   
2. As of January 6, 2003, only PC cards supporting 128 bit encryption will be accepted by the access points. Older 64 bit cards will no longer be compatible with the campus wireless LAN. When registering your wireless card, you will be given the 128 bit encryption key to use on campus. Note that the encryption key is also case sensitive and must be set in key 1. If you already have a 128 bit card and have registered it, the key you are using for key 4 now must be assigned to key 1 and set as the transmit key. Note the encryption key is also case sensitive. The Help Desk can also provide the encryption key via e-mail.

For users needing to upgrade their 64 bit card, UCit has arranged for a trade-in program at the UC Bookstore. You can trade-in in your 64 bit card obtain a $10 price reduction on the UCit recommended and supported Cisco AIR-PCM352 128 bit wireless PCI card. Call the UC Bookstore Computer Store at 513-556-1253 for more information.

The Cisco card can also be purchased on the web from numerous sources. A good reference for some of these sources and price comparison is http://shopper.cnet.com/shopping/0-1257.html?tag=st..11326-ron.bc.gp. Search for PCM352.

UCit has tested the WaveLAN/Orinoco Gold Card part number 014916/A COMCODE 848441556 and found it to function properly with the standard UC access points. UCit, will provide support for this card on a best effort basis. Other 128 bit cards should also function with the UC wireless network, but have not been tested nor will be fully supported by UCit.