User Support

Wireless Networking - Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I log out?
• Do I need to reconfigure my machine with an IP address?
• Is the wireless network secure?
• Which wireless adapter should I buy?
• Who can I contact if I have problems installing a wireless adapter card in my laptop?
• If I want to buy a new laptop - what do you recommend?
• How fast is a Wireless Connection?
• Do I need to register my wireless card?
• What if I have more than one wireless connection?

How do I log out?

After you log in successfully, a VPN icon will appear in your task bar on the bottom right hand side of the screen. To log out, close any open browsers, right click on the VPN icon and select disconnect.

Do I need to reconfigure my machine with an IP address?

An IP address will be assigned automatically by the network. Your wireless adapter should be configured to obtain an IP address automatically.

Is the wireless network secure?

To obtain a secure wireless network connection you need to use the VPN client. This connection method uses encryption to protect the information you transmit over the airwaves.

Which Wireless Adapter should I buy?

Any wireless card that supports the standard 802.11b protocol should work. Any Mac using Airport will also work. Linksys Wireless cards are not acceptable on our system.

• Recommended Wireless Cards

Who can I contact if I have problems installing a wireless adapter card in my

laptop?

Students are responsible for making proper installation and configurations of any network adapter/card that is not included in their laptop. Refer to the setup documentation included with the product.

If I want to buy a new laptop - what do you recommend?

For complete details on our recommended laptop please visit www.salemstate.edu/laptop.

How fast is a Wireless Connection?

The wireless network has a nominal speed of 11 megabits per second. Depending on signal quality and the number of users connected wirelessly through a particular access point, actual speed could be much less.

Do I need to register my Wireless Card?

Yes, in order to obtain wireless access on campus your wireless card/adapter must be registered. Upon completion of the wireless activation form your wireless card/adapter will be registered and you will then have a secure internet connection through the wireless (SSC-VPN) network.

What if I have more then one wireless connection?

All computers with wireless cards are usually set to detect all available networks. Depending on the area you are in when trying to connect, your wireless adapter may detect more than one wireless network. On campus you should be connecting to the wireless (SSC-VPN) network.

Additional Information

User Support
Telephone: 978-542-2036
Email: it-helpdesk@salemstate.edu