Wireless Network
Overview
The University-provided wireless network allows laptop users to access network resources from locations on campus where wiring is not available, providing increased flexibility and productivity. The Networking group in IT Services leads the ongoing effort to expand wireless service throughout campus.
Wireless is already available in most academic and administrative buildings, as well as many residences, including Wilbur Hall, Stern Hall, Branner Hall, Escondido Village (partial coverage), Florence Moore Hall, Manzanita Park, Sterling Quad, Roble Hall, and the Row. For more information, see Residential Computing's page on Wireless in the Residences and the Wireless Information from Other IT Providers page.
Service Availability
To find out if a particular building or area of campus is wireless-enabled, use one of the following links. Note: Buildings listed here as wireless-enabled may have particular areas where reception is weak or unavailable due to building layout, type of construction, or other factors. This resource is provided as a general guide and does not guarantee that a wireless signal will be available in all areas.
- search for wireless "hotspots" using an interactive campus map
- view the complete alphabetical list of wireless-enabled facilities
Getting Connected
To use the wireless network you will need:
- A laptop computer with a Type II PCMCIA slot (or a laptop with built-in wireless)
- An 802.11b or 802.11g compatible (Wi-Fi) wireless PCMCIA card or built-in adapter
Activating Your Card
To activate the wireless card you must first register it. All network devices must be registered in the Stanford network database (NetDB) before they can connect to SUNet. Even if you have already registered your laptop's wired Ethernet connection, you must register your wireless connection separately. On-campus students need to register their adapter on-line at the Rescomp Web site. Faculty and staff should contact their LNA (Local Network Administrator) for card registration. If you live off-campus or cannot locate your LNA, call the Stanford IT Help Desk at (650)725-4357 (5-HELP).
To register the card, the administrator will need the MAC address of the wireless card (printed on a sticker on the bottom of the card, or the bottom of your laptop if you have built-in wireless) and the Host name of your Mac or PC.
The next step is to install the software provided with the card, following the manufacturer's instructions. If you are having difficulty installing your card, call 5-HELP for assistance (note: assistance is given at best effort).
