University of Wolverhampton

IT Self Help

Before you can connect to the wireless or personal wired network, you’ll need the following:

(When you have what you need, find out how to connect on the Getting Connected page).

Wireless logo To connect to the wireless network, you'll need a wireless enabled device or a wireless adapter.

If you have a laptop, it may have wireless networking built in; look for one that supports the 802.11n standard if you're thinking of purchasing one. If not, you'll need a USB adapter. Most of these look like a memory stick (flash drive). If you will be using it in the Residences, we recommend one that comes with a stand you can plug the stick into, plus a USB lead, because that allows you to move it around to find the best signal. Note that USB adapters may not work with a USB hub. Most USB adapters will work at full speed only on a USB2 connection, which you may not find on older PCs.

USB adapters are available from Dabs Direct, D-Link, Netgear, Belkin, 3Com and various other well-known manufacturers. If you buy an adapter of a make you haven't heard of, you should check that it carries a "WiFi Certified" logo of the Wi-Fi Alliance, like this:

WiFi certified

802.11 networks can run at various speeds on two frequencies (wavebands): 2.4GHz and 5GHz. These speeds are nominal, and actual data rates are 50% of them or lower, as a result of various overheads. Also capacity is shared between all clients using a hotspot, so your throughput can vary. The speed you get will be determined by the types that your adapter supports, the types that the hotspot supports, and your distance from it. This is a list of defined types, and an indication of which of our hotspots offer them:

  • 802.11b: Operates at up to 11Mb/s on the 2.4GHz waveband. This is the only type available in Residences.
  • 802.11g: Operates at up to 54Mb/s on the 2.4GHz waveband. Hotspots in all buildings other than the Residences support this, and all new wireless adapters do too.
  • 802.11a: Operates at up to 54Mb/s on the 5GHz waveband. Because this is little used and has more channels available, actual speeds are often higher than with 802.11g. Over half our wireless hotspots offer this access, but you will need an adaptor that supports it.
  • 802.11n: The latest standard, ratified in October 2009, offers much higher speeds (up to 300Mb/s). Operates in both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands at up to 300Mb/s. Currently about 10% of our hotspots offer this, mostly in Learning Centres and Social Learning areas. You will need an adapter that supports it. If you buy one, look for one that offers dual-band support (5Ghz as well as 2.4Ghz). Many designed for the home market don't.

The "WiFi Certified" label (see above) on the adapter will tell you which of these types it supports. Fortunately, Windows will normally select the optimum type of connection for you.

Notes:

  • If your adapter has any proprietary features (e.g "turbo mode" or "22 Mb mode") you must turn them off, or the card may not work on our network.
  • The way you set up wireless on PCs running Linux varies between distributions, so we can't offer advice on this.

To connect to the personal wired network, e.g. in the study bedrooms in University Accommodation, you'll need an Ethernet cable. These are available from University catering outlets or computer retailers.

 
  • Date: 16th January 2012
  • Last reviewed: 16th January 2012