Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wireless Network Access? Who can use the UNLV Wireless Network? What do I need to use this network? How do I install my wireless network card? How can I get an Account? How do I connect to UNLV Wireless Network? Can I use my 802.11b/g wireless card at other location on campus?

What is Wireless Network Access? A wireless LAN is one in which a mobile user can connect to a local area network (LAN) through a wireless (radio) connection. The user will need to have a PC or Macintosh laptop with a supported wireless network card. Some laptops may have these cards built in, or you may need to purchase a separate card. Back to Top Who can use the UNLV Wireless Network? This network is available to all University of Nevada, Las Vegas students, faculty, and staff who have a valid UNLV RebelCard. Back to Top What do I need to use this network? You will need a computer with an IEEE 802.11b/g or IEEE 802.11b wireless LAN network card and network browser. Windows Windows 2000 or Windows XP Operating System Recommended 802.11b wireless LAN network cards: Linksys Wireless -G D-Link AirPlus G Cisco Aironet Some newer models of Windows laptop computers can use a mini-PCI internal wireless card. Check with vendors for availability of these computers with special cards. Macintosh OS X.x An Apple Powerbook or iBook with an internal Airport wireless card An Apple Powerbook without a slot for an internal Airport wireless card but with a PC card slot. Recommended 802.11b wireless LAN network cards: Cisco Aironet Back to Top How do I install my wireless network card? Software and instructions are provided with the wireless card that you purchase. Generally you just need to start your laptop and insert the card into a PC card slot (if external). Your laptop should detect the new hardware (the wireless card) and walk you through the process of installing the drivers. During the installation process, you will need the following information: TCP/IP software needs to be set-up to use the 802.11b/g hardware (this may look like an "Ethernet" device to the system) Use DHCP to dynamically obtain a TCP/IP address The SSID or network name is UNLV Do not use "WEP" encryption for connections to UNLV Wireless Network Back to Top How can I get an account? You will need to be in a location where the UNLV Wireless Network is available. Insert your wireless card (unless the wireless card is built-in) and turn on your computer. Launch a web browser: Microsoft Internet Explorer Netscape Navigator Your web browser home page will be redirected to the UNLV Wireless Network authentication page. Register by clicking on the link to the Registration Page. You will need your RebelCard in order to complete this process. **Note: There will be a 24 hour delay from the time your RebelCard is issued until you may register. You will be prompted to return to the login page. Please login with your User Name and password. You are now connected to the UNLV Wireless Network and can use your network applications. Back to Top How do I connect to UNLV Wireless Network You will need to be in a location where the UNLV Wireless Network is available. Insert your wireless card (unless the wireless card is built-in) and turn on your computer. Launch a web browser: Microsoft Internet Explorer: version 5.5 or later for Windows, version 5.2 or later for Macintosh computers Netscape Navigator: version 4.7.2 or later for Windows or Macintosh computers. Your web browser home page will be redirected to the UNLV Wireless Network authentication page. Register by clicking on the link to the Registration Page. You will need your RebelCard in order to complete this process. You will be prompted to return to the login page. Please login with your User Name and password. You are now connected to the UNLV Wireless Network and can use your network applications. Back to Top Can I use my 802.11b/g wireless card at other location on campus? Some academic departments and business units have implemented their own wireless LANs. Check with the IT support group in your unit to see if a wireless network is available for your use. Also, consumer-oriented 802.11b/g access points, sometimes called "base stations" are available from a number of vendors. If you correctly set up such a base station at home, then the same 802.11b/g card that connects your computer to the UNLV Wireless Network can be used at home. NOTE: There several standards used for wireless communication; they are not all IEEE 802.11b/g. The IEEE 802.11g standard is backwards compatible with IEEE 802.11b. This means the older IEEE 802.11b access points or cards can be used with the newer IEEE 802.11b/g access points or cards. Back to Top