Faculty and Staff FAQs - Wireless Network

Do you provide wireless connectivity?

There are various points of access to the general CUMC wireless network, named either Rome or Athens, in limited parts of the campus. Complete information including instructions on configuring your computer to connect can be found on our Wireless page.

How can I connect to the wireless network at CUMC?

You must follow the instructions on our wireless page to configure your computer to connect to the wireless network. This may involve downloading and installing a free encryption program depending on the location at which you'd like to connect. It also requires that you have an active UNI account to authenticate.

Where can I connect to the wireless network?

Please see our wireless locations list for current information.

What kind of wireless card can I use for my computer?

802.11b and 802.11g, WiFi certified wireless cards will work on the CUMC network. 802.11g will allow for faster data speeds. You must also make sure your card is compatible with the operating system and hardware on your computer.

For Windows XP systems that will be connecting to the Athens wireless network, the chipset on your computer's wireless card must also allow for WPA authentication and TKIP encryption.

Can our department set up Wireless Access Points on campus?

No, wireless access points and routers are not allowed on the network unless approved by Core Resources. These devices can cause network connectivity problems for other systems in the building if not configured properly, and can also mask what computers are using the network. Due to HIPAA regulations we must have contact information on all systems that connect to the network. Any unapproved access points or routers will be blocked from the network and a Security Incident Report will be issued.

Please Note: Some departments have implemented wireless connectivity in certain locations for specialized applications. These wireless access points are named something other than Rome or Athens and are not open for non-departmental use. If you believe your department has set up their own access points (these must be installed in conjunction with Core Resources), then please contact your department's business office for more information.

If your department would like a survey and estimate for wireless connectivity, please contact Information Commons to put in a request.

Is the wireless network encrypted?

Yes, due to HIPAA regulations the CUMC wireless network requires encryption. It cannot be accessed without using encryption. The Rome access points require Cisco's VPN program, and the Athens access points require WPA (connecting to Athens with a Windows XP computer also requires the SecureW2 program). Complete information on installing and using these types of encryption can be found on our wireless page.

Can I access the wireless network with my PDA?

Due to encryption requirements, CUMC's wireless network is not currently compatible with PDA devices. We are working to provide this in the future, please check our wireless page for updates.