Help Topic Detail
Connect to wireless (WiFi) on campus
St. John Fisher College provides wireless in all buildings on campus including Residence Halls, Academic, and Administration Buildings. The College offers a secure wireless connection to provide enhanced wireless security to the college community. When using the SJFC Secure and ResNet wireless networks, you will have enhanced security and your Internet usage will no longer be visible by others using the unsecured wireless network.
Please remember that ANY unsecured wireless network (e.g. Starbucks, Mom’s Coffee & Cookie shop, etc.) are just that…UNSECURE. That means other people using that network may be able to see your Internet traffic.
OIT recommends that you always use a SECURED wireless connection , especially in public places. If you are unable to connect to the secured wireless network on campus, the attached document will walk you through getting connected and logging on.
Connecting to SJFC_Secure Wireless [pdf]
Connecting to Residential Halls (Resnet) Wireless [pdf]
Wireless Interference - Common Causes
SJFC wireless network transmits on a standard 2.4 ghz radio frequency. These radio waves are subject to interference from active and passive sources. Knowing about the sources of such radio interference can help you position your wireless devices to limit or avoid interference.
Active Sources of Wireless Interference
An active source of wireless interference is usually a device that radiates a radio signal on the same 2.4 ghz frequency as the wireless network.
Some common devices that can emit 2.4 ghz radio signals and could be potential sources of wireless interference:
- Bluetooth devices - Bluetooth devices transmit a short range 2.4 ghz signal. Many cell phones, PDAs, cordless mice and other devices use Bluetooth.
- Cordless Phones (2.4 ghz) - Cordless phones that use the 2.4 ghz frequency can cause severe wireless signal interference.
- Fluorescent lights - Some newer fluorescent light bulbs emit 2.4 ghz frequency radio waves.
Microwave ovens - Improperly shielded microwave ovens can emit 2.4 ghz frequency radio waves. - Other wireless devices - other devices, such as wireless keyboards and mice, use the 2.4 ghz frequency.
- Other wireless networks - Multiple wireless networks setup within close range can cause mutual interference.
If you find that you have a poor or inconsistent wireless signal in your room, see if you have any of these devices nearby. In most cases, simply moving your wireless receiver farther away from the source of interference is enough to solve the problem.
Sometimes, however, it is necessary to remove the interfering device from the environment. This step can be problematical if the device is immovable or doesn't belong to you. Under such circumstances, testing your wireless receiver in various locations may be your only option.
Passive Sources of Wireless Interference
A passive source of wireless interference is any material that restricts or lowers a wireless signal that attempts to pass through it. Generally, the denser a substance, the greater potential for interference it will have.
The following shows materials commonly used in building construction and their potential for wireless interference:
- Glass, Stone – Medium interference potential
- Metal, Concrete - Very High interference potential
- Paper, Heavy Fabric – High interference potential
- Wood, Brick – Low interference potential
Metal and concrete hold the greatest potential for wireless interference, followed closely by paper and heavy fabric. Less dense substances, such as wood and brick generally cause very little wireless interference.
The potential for interference by these substances is not limited to their use as building materials. Furniture and other objects made from these substances can cause serious interferences as well, especially if located in close proximity to your wireless receiver. Avoid placing your wireless receiver on or near a metal desk or cabinet, and keep the area around it clear of stacks of books or clothing.