Wireless Network Access (Computer Services)

NOTE: this page contains some outdated information. To be updated. (posted 8/18/20)

More up-to-date information exists on the Student IT site ...

Wireless networking, or WiFi technology has rapidly gained acceptance in the IT industry as an alternative to a wired local-area network (LAN). Wireless offers the conveniences of:

  • Mobile computing – eg. the use of PDA’s to track incoming e-mail while on the move.
  • Using notebook computers in open areas – cafeteria, student/faculty lounges, library, etc.
  • Network access in areas not serviced with a hardwired connection – machine shop, hangar, outdoors
  • Giving network access to computers in a temporary location – hallway displays, shows, etc.

Wi-Fi devices "connect" to each other by transmitting and receiving radio signals on a specific frequency. Two components are required: Wi-Fi radios and network access points.

Wi-Fi radios are embedded or attached to desktop computers, notebooks and mobile devices. The access points or gateways act as base stations — they send and receive signals from the Wi-Fi radios to connect the various components to the hardwired network and Internet.

At Confederation College, access points have been installed to make wireless networking available in most of the College’s Thunder Bay campus buildings – Shuniah, McIntyre, Dorion, and ACE.

The Confederation College wireless network supports all three WiFi standards:

  • 802.11a – variable speed, usually up to 24 Mbps
  • 802.11b – 11Mbps
  • 802.11g – 54Mbps (recommended)

Wireless home computer networks built using equipment from retail computer shops also follow these standards. So if you have a wireless network set up at home, chances are your wireless devices are compatible with the College network.

In contrast, most hardwired network connections at the College operate at 100 Mbps. The tradeoff for wireless access is reduced speed.

If you are interested in using wireless network access, contact the Computer Helpdesk ([email protected], 475-6488 (ext. 6488) for further information.

The Library also has loaner wireless access cards (PCMCIA) on loan for use with your notebook computer. This is a great way to take wireless for a spin before you buy your own card.