UCB Wireless - Service Guidelines

Wireless Is Not Intended for Desktop Computers

UCB Wireless is not intended to replace wired jacks on campus. A campus data jack with a dedicated connection to the campus network is the fastest, most reliable and most secure communication channel for desktop computers. Wireless signals can be affected by environmental issues such as bookcases, desks, or furniture, as well as interference from 2.4 and 5 GHz phones, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, and wireless game controllers. Also, wireless service is shared with other users and is inherently less secure than wired connections.

Important Note: Whenever sensitive data is transmitted on wireless, a VPN should be used for secure data transmission.

Setting Up Your Own Wireless Network is Prohibited

• Per the Wireless Deployment and Management Policy, approved by the CU IT Council on January 10, 2002, setting up wireless 802.11 access points without coordination with OIT is prohibited.
• OIT is responsible for coordinating Wireless Local Area Network hardware across the CU-Boulder campus to ensure optimal network coverage, secure access, and general network stability. Wireless technology is highly sensitive to overlapping frequencies. In addition, access points can act as routers or DHCP servers if configured incorrectly, which can disrupt service to other network users. For these reasons, OIT is charged with managing wireless technology on campus in a centralized fashion to ensure functionality, maximum bandwidth, and security.
• OIT has installed wireless access points in many locations on campus paid for with student funding. In other locations, departments have provided funding for OIT to install permanent wireless networks in their areas, all serving UCB Wireless and UCB Guest Wireless.
• If you have already set up a wireless access point, it is important to contact the OIT Wireless Team because incorrectly configured access points can disrupt network services for many other campus network users. OIT will work with the access point owner to determine if it interferes with other wired and wireless networks.
• Contact the IT Service Center (303-735-4357, 5-HELP from on campus, or help@colorado.edu) for more information.

Wireless in Residence Halls

Setting up personal Wireless Access Points in the residence halls is strictly prohibited. All of the residence halls on main campus have wired networking available in each room, which is faster and more secure than existing wireless network options. Many also have UCB Wireless.