Networks

The following topics are covered on this page:

Wireless is network access connectable via radio frequency waves. Customers who use this can access the network from an average of up to 150 feet, or 50 meters, away from a wireless hub without cables or connectors. These radio frequencies pass through most building materials, sometimes allowing network access outdoors.

Wireless is a supplement to regular connections but is not a replacement. Although wireless is often convenient, physical connections are still faster, more secure, and more reliable.

In open areas, most wireless devices have a maximum range of 350 feet, or 117 meters. However, customers may receive a varying level of network speed depending on their proximity to the access point. Up close, individuals can receive a connection of about 11 mega-bits, or 1.375 megabytes, per second. This speed is more than enough to handle most digital video streams over the Internet. From 100 to 150 feet, the network connection is usually about half as fast and, after 200 feet, the speed falls to 2 mega-bits, or 0.25 megabytes, per second or less. These speeds and ranges are typical in open areas without interference.

Some areas, such as parts of the M.D. Anderson Library, may not receive any signal, even with a growing number of access points. A wireless device's radio frequency transmissions are not hindered by most building materials, but are strongly dampened by rows of books. Methods to circumvent this problem are currently being researched.

The University of Houston offers wireless network access for its laptop customers to allow Internet access from a growing number of access points on campus.

Customers interested in this service must have a wireless card for their laptop. These can be purchased for between $50 and $150 in most computer stores or online. On campus, the Cougar Byte, located in the basement of the University Center, carries wireless cards for both Macintosh and Windows computers.

The most important item to consider is that the wireless card you choose is in compliance with the 802.11b networking standard. Compatible products can be confusing as other standards exist, such as 802.11a and 802.11g. However, the standard supported by the University of Houston is 802.11b.

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