What are WLANs?
WLAN (or WiLAN) is an acronym for Wireless LAN. A Wireless LAN is a local area network which enables a computer to act as if it is on the physical network yet have no network wires attached to it.
The topic is hot, because wireless network cards are becoming ever more affordable, and one type of wireless networking has achieved shared Ethernet speeds. This means that it is now conceptually possible for one to walk down the hall from one’s office to a conference room while carrying one’s laptop computer and remain online all the while.
What is the UC Irvine campus policy on wireless networking?
Campus policies for the existing campus data network apply to extensions of that network also, including wireless networks. NACS manages UCInet (the campus data network) on behalf of UCI, and is responsible for strategic planning, maintenance, and 24/7 operation of it. It is clear that wireless networking will have an impact on UCInet network planning and operations, and that NACS will need to provide guidelines regarding aspects of wireless networking not covered by the existing policies.
Wireless, however, adds a new level of complexity. WLANs create new security risks for all network users when placed in or near areas accessible to the public. Also, if departments deploy local Wireless solutions, there is the potential that “air space” conflicts may result in unintentional interference by one department in another department’s efforts. Local solutions might also prove incompatible with a campus-wide solution which was implemented at a later time.
To forestall problems that could be created by early adopters of this important and exciting new technology, NACS is coordinating with departments for whom implementing Wireless solutions is a priority.
NACS is working on a method of authenticating users centrally for public networks. In the meantime, NACS recommends use of the built-in MAC address authentication features of wireless access points. We also encourage departments to contact NACS (nacs@uci.edu or x6116) for help in understanding the issues.
A full discussion of this issue and UCI plans for deploying and supporting wireless technology can be found athttp://www.nacs.uci.edu/doc/wireless.html