TTUnet Wireless - Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wireless network is installed at Texas Tech University?
TTUnet wireless uses the 802.11g specification combined with the following standards for encryption and authentication:
- WPA2-Enterprise
- 802.1X
- PEAP
- AES
Which buildings have TTUnet wireless access?
View the current list.
Will anyone that walks into the building be able to gain access to the wireless network?
No, only students, faculty, staff, and individuals affiliated with Texas Tech University will be able to access the wireless network.
How secure is wireless networking?
All Texas Tech University information resources may be accessed over the TTUnet wireless network.
The standard used for encrypting data over TTUnet is the same standard approved by the National Security Agency (NSA) and used by the United States government.
How do I access the wireless network?
Setup and configuration information can be found on the TTUnet Wireless Setup page.
What kind of wireless standards should I ensure my hardware includes before making a purchase?
Please see the answer to the first question in this FAQ. In addition, please be aware that 802.11b and 802.11n hardware is usually compatible with the 802.11g standard. However, we recommend checking with the hardware manufacturer to be certain.
Does the wireless network replace the wired network?
The wireless network is not a replacement for the wired infrastructure. Wireless networking is provided only to enhance mobile communications. Desktops, servers, and workstations should be connected to the wired infrastructure exclusively. There are several reasons for this approach:
- Wireless bandwidth is very limited. All wireless networks share the available capacity with many systems in the same way legacy shared-Ethernet hubs work.
- Wireless capacity is limited. There are a limited number of radio channels that can be used to provide more capacity in an area. This significantly limits the number of systems that can be served wirelessly.
- Wireless communications are not as reliable as wired. Since it is based on radio reception, wireless communications can be upset by a wide variety of external causes, such as interference from rogue wireless stations, microwave ovens, portable phones, baby monitors, Bluetooth devices, and natural phenomena.
What can I access over the wireless network?
You will be able to access all of the TTUnet and Internet resources over the wireless network that you can access from a wired connection.
Can I set up my own wireless network at Texas Tech University?
No. For security and operational reasons, all wireless networks on Texas Tech University property or leased facilities must be supplied by the IT Division. Texas Tech University reserves the right to manage all unlicensed radio frequencies on its campus. If you have a need for wireless communications capability, please contact Telecommunications Design & Installation group at (806) 742-1648 or netdesign@ttu.edu.
Will wireless networking be available outdoors?
Planning to provide wireless network access outdoors is ongoing, and we hope that it will be available in the future. If you have specific needs, please contact Telecommunications.
My department is hosting a meeting or conference. Can wireless network access be provided to the attendees?
An established procedure is in place to provide temporary wireless access. We can accommodate most sponsored events given enough time for proper preparation and deployment. Please complete the form at http://www.net.ttu.edu/forms/ttuguest.asp preferably 1-2 weeks in advance.
This form should be used to request temporary wireless guest access for individuals attending conferences, meetings, and events. Recruiters, vendors, presenters, and visitors should also use the guest wireless network. Access is provided through a specially provisioned wireless network for 1 to 5 days.
The amount of time to evaluate the request varies; therefore, it may take several working days to process the request. In some cases, follow-up conversations may be required to understand the nature of the request. Please plan ahead accordingly.
Customers will receive an email message providing detailed guest account and laptop setup information.
Where do I go for assistance and information?
Contact IT Help Central for further assistance or information.