In the most basic terms, WLAN is local area networking without wires, but providing all of the features and benefits of traditional LAN technologies. Wireless LANs utilize radio frequencies to transmit data between PCs and other network devices, eliminating the need for wires or cables. Wireless LANs "talk" on spread spectrum radio waves, which are less susceptible to interference.
A wireless LAN is comprised of "access points," which are connected to a wired network "backbone," providing the connection to a server or servers. Access points are equipped with special antennae for transmitting data via radio frequencies. Devices on the WLAN, such as desktop PCs, laptops, scanners or printers, are equipped with wireless network interface cards with identical antennae.
The AccessODU wireless network provides basic access to Campus Resources and Internet access for the Old Dominion Community. It is a cross platform, user friendly, configuration free method of accessing Campus and Internet resources. It is a Web browser based authentication method, which is similar to wireless networks available in coffee shops, hotels, airports and other universities. We encourage clients who use this network to ensure that their personal firewall enabled, anti-virus software, operating systems, and other software packages are up to date.
After authentication, the AccessODU wireless network does not implement encryption. It is suggested that at the point that you are providing user IDs, passwords, confidential and/or payment information, the beginning of the website address should be https://, indicating that the information is being encrypted. Your browser may also show that the information is secure with a symbol, such as a broken key that becomes whole or a padlock that closes.
Old Dominion University, WLAN access points have been installed in all academic buildings, administration buildings, and residence halls with the exception of the Human Resource Buildings, Academic Skills, Writing Center, Model United Nation Building, Benthic Ecology Lab, and the University Auditors Building.
An Acceptable Usage Policy appears on the authentication web page during the authentication process.