Connectivity > AU Wireless > Common Topics

Common Topics

 

What is AU_WiFi?

AU_WiFi is a WPA2-encrypted broadband wireless network, which means traffic cannot be easily obtained as it passes from a user's computer to the wireless access point. Because this traffic is secure, users may use insecure protocols (ex. pop3, imap, telnet, ftp, etc.). AU_WiFi has 802.11n access points for high speeds.

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What is AU_GameNet?

AU_GameNet is Auburn University's broadband wireless network for TiVos & gaming consoles, such as Sony Playstation 3, XBOX 360, and Nintendo Wii. AU_GameNet has 802.11n access points and are located in residential halls and restricted by MAC address.

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Who has access to the AU Wireless network?

All Auburn University employees and students can access the AU Wireless network.

To access the AU Wireless network, you will be required to log in using your User Name and computing password. If you need to establish a temporary guest account, please contact:

OIT HelpDesk
(334) 844-4944
helpdesk@auburn.edu

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Hardware Requirements

Your computer needs a wireless network card installed or a wireless USB adapter. Wireless controllers should be 802.11n & WPA2 compatible.

If you do not have a network card, you can purchase and install this equipment on your own, or you can contact the Student PC Shop at (334) 844-9313. The SPCS will install a network card for you after you supply the card. The installation charges will appear on your bursar bill.

We recommend that your computer meet or exceed these minimum system requirements:

Windows-compatible
  • Windows XP (Service Pack 3)
  • 256 MB of RAM
  • Wireless adapter with WPA2 capability
  • 1 GB free hard disk space
Macintosh
  • Mac OS 10.4
  • 512 MB of RAM
  • Wireless adapter
  • 1 GB free hard disk space

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Security Requirements

AU Policies require that your Windows computer have current anti-virus software and Microsoft Windows security patches.

AU provides Anti-Virus Software to students at no charge. Download a copy from the web site at www.auburn.edu/download.

Download and install Microsoft Windows service packs and other updates from the Microsoft Windows Update site at windowsupdate.microsoft.com.

Use the Windows Update feature of your computer to automatically download and install security patches for Internet Explorer, Microsoft Office, and other software.

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Wireless locations on campus

Wireless coverage is offered in select areas of campus. Additional areas of campus will have coverage soon. Current areas are listed below:

Public Areas:

Specific Academic Areas:

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Trying out the wireless network

If you would like to "try before you buy" a wireless laptop, they are available at the RBD Library for your complimentary use. The laptops can be checked out for use within the building for four hours at a time. An employee or student ID and a User Name and password are required.

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Handheld devices supported

Handheld devices running Microsoft Windows CE, Microsoft Windows PocketPC and Palm OS can connect to the AU Wireless network while the devices are within the current wireless zones around campus.

Before accessing the network, you will be required to log in using your User Name and computing password. While logged in, you can access the Web, e-mail and other Internet-based services. To begin this process, go into any Tsunami wireless coverage area, open your web browser, and you will be automatically taken to the AU Wireless log in page.

If you need help configuring your handheld device, contact:

OIT HelpDesk
helpdesk@auburn.edu
(334) 844-9400

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Wireless Network Security

The AU_WiFi access points are fully encrypted. However, if you need an encrypted connection to a Tsunami access point, the Cisco VPN is available to Auburn University employees and students via AU Install. The Cisco VPN (Virtual Private Network) provides 168-bit DES encryption to ensure that all data sent is protected.

Of course, even if you are not using the Cisco VPN client, you can still establish secure data connections when visiting web sites and e-mail portals that offer SSL connections, such as Amazon.com and other popular commerce sites.

The Cisco VPN is not available for handheld devices such as Microsoft Pocket PC or Palm OS.

Download : Cisco VPN Client

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