180 likes | 654 Views
Wireless Internet at Work and at Home Kevin Mackett & Dan Stoffel E-Learning Center Northern Arizona University What do we mean by “wireless”? Wireless Internet at Work and at Home Wi-Fi = wireless fidelity IEEE 802.11 protocol “Long” range Average ~150 ft or more
E N D
Wireless Internet at Work and at Home Kevin Mackett & Dan Stoffel E-Learning Center Northern Arizona University
What do we mean by “wireless”? Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • Wi-Fi = wireless fidelity • IEEE 802.11 protocol • “Long” range • Average ~150 ft or more
What do we mean by “wireless”? Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • An extension of an existing Internet connection • Not a stand-alone connection • Allows computers to connect to: • other computers • local networks • the Internet
Common/Current Wi-Fi Protocols Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • Most Cable or DSL connections are 1-2 Mbps • 802.11a is less common and compatible • Detailed Comparisons of a, b, and g
Emerging/future Wi-Fi Protocols Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • Pre-802.11n is being sold now • Wi-Max is long distance (ideal when cable and DSL are not practical)
Connection Methods Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • PC to PC • (Ad Hoc) • PC to Wireless Access Point • (Infrastructure) Hot Spot • Most common
Wi-Fi Interference • “b” and “g” use RF in 2.4 GHz range • Interference from • Microwave Ovens • Cordless Phones • Bluetooth Devices • Baby Monitors • More reading…
What do I need? Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • Computer • Wi-fi card compatible with access point • Many newer laptops have wireless built in • Access point • Public • Free or paid • Coffee shops and Airports are common • Home • NAU
Does my XP computer have Wi-Fi? Wireless Internet at Work and at Home Most newer laptops include wireless cards • Windows Control Panel: Network Connections • If you see “Wireless Network Connection” you’re all set! Double-click it to see available networks
Wireless Internet at Work and at Home Double-click a network to connect to it. • Note whether the network is Unsecured or Security-enabled Unsecured Security-enabled
Wireless Internet at Work and at Home Does my Mac have Wi-Fi? On the Mac, Wi-Fi is called AirPort • Internet Connect application:
Adding wireless to my computer Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • Laptop $30 - $60+ for 802.11g • PC card (PCMCIA) • USB -- easiest • Desktop $30 - $60+ for 802.11g • PC card (PCI) • USB -- also easiest • NAU bookstore- can confirm compatibility with NAU network • Office supply stores, Sam’s, computer stores
Wireless Security • Why? • Limit access • More secure data transmission • SSID- hide • Data Encryption • 40 bit WEP • 128 bit WEP • WPA • Even with secured wireless, use https • VPNs (links to NAU VPN instructions)
Free wireless in Flagstaff Most often open= no security Late For the Train Macy’s Uptown Billiards Pay ‘n Take NAU (Guest access) Others? Paid wireless in Flagstaff Sometimes secure Kinko’s Barnes and Noble Campus Coffee Bean Starbucks Embassy Suites UPS Store Varsity Espresso McDonald’s Days Inn Finding a Public Access Point in Flagstaff Wireless Internet at Work and at Home
Finding a Public Access Point outside Flagstaff Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • Search the web • http://www.wifi411.com • http://www.jiwire.com • Many local coffee shops have free access • Most online hotel pricing sites list if Wi-Fi is included with rooms
Setting up a Home Access Point Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • You need an existing Internet connection • Cable • DSL • Making dialup wireless requires special equipment • Apple Airport Basestation • Wi-fi router ($35 - $80+) can add extra security • Each manufacture has own instructions • Linksys, US Robotics, Belkin, D-Link • Take the time to setup security!
Connecting at NAU Wireless Internet at Work and at Home Wireless access can be found at: Institute for Human Development Hotel/Restaurant Management Health Professions Facilities Services Colorado Plateau Studies Riles Biology Ashurst Social and Behavioral Sciences North Union Nursing Cline Library Gammage Bookstore University Union Dubois Center Learning Resources Center Information Technology Services Eastburn Education Center Engineering and Technology Babbitt Administrative Center Project Management Office Physical Sciences College of Business Southwest Forest Science Complex Wettaw Biology/Biochemistry Gateway Center http://www.nau.edu/wireless
Connecting at NAU Wireless Internet at Work and at Home • http://www.nau.edu/wireless • VPN – for security • Solution Center at 3-1511 (faculty/staff) • Walkthrough of setup