NEED HELP DISABLING YOUR USE OF SSID 123? See instructions at:

www.bu.edu/tech/help/wireless/8021x/disable123.html

How do I connect to the wireless network?

Be sure to use a BU SSID. There are four options for connecting to BU's wireless network:

• Connecting to BU (802.1x): Most recently-purchased computers should be able to connect to the 802.1x network.
• Connecting to BU (requires VPN): Older machines, or those that have trouble with 802.1x, can use the VPN-encrypted network. For detailed instructions, please click on the appropriate link below.
• Connecting to BU (Guest): This allows you to sponsor a guest to access the Internet through BU's network. Your guest will not have access to university-specific resources, but will have full access to the Internet. Follow these instructions to set up a guest account.
• Connecting to BU Wireless Help: If you connect to BU Wireless Help, you will see some basic information on connecting to the other SSIDs on campus, and have access to these pages for detailed instructions.

Where can I access BU's wireless network?

Boston University continues to extend its secure wireless network. The network can now be accessed in many public places around campus, as well as in lounges and other public areas in University residences. The BU wireless network is not available in student rooms within those residences.

You can find locations on campus where wireless is available via the BU Maps tool. Alternatively, you can view a list of addresses, including floor information.

Who can connect to BU's wireless network?

Most members of the BU community who have a Kerberos login and password, can connect to either BU (802.1x) or BU (requires VPN). Some account holders, including Distance Education students and alumni, may not have this access by default. Members may also sponsor a guest to connect to the network using the BU Guest (unencrypted) SSID by following these instructions. Please be aware that traffic on this SSID is not encrypted in any way.

Is it secure?

All wireless transmissions are vulnerable unless they are encrypted. The Boston University wireless network is secured through strong encryption. If you would like to know more about our security methods, please read our wireless security page. Please note that no encryption is used when connecting with the BU Guest (unencrypted) or BU Wireless Help Service Set Identifiers (SSIDs).

Are personal wireless access points (WAPs) allowed in the residence halls?

No. Because they can assign network addresses that conflict and interfere with existing BU addresses, wireless access points that are not installed and managed by the Office of Information Technology are prohibited in the residence halls. For a list of frequently asked questions about ResNet and network registration procedures, please visit the NetReg FAQ page. For those living off campus (not in a residence hall), we offer instructions for securely configuring a home wireless access point.

Can I use wireless devices (like a WLAN phone or wireless storage device) on the BU wireless network?

It depends on the device. If your device supports 802.1x authentication, it can be used. The iPhone and iPod Touch, for example, will work. Other devices may or may not work, as described on a related page. Any device that can be used with an Ethernet cable, will work. However, you will first need to register it at www.bu.edu/pcsc/ethernet/devicereg/.