Have a laptop computer? Want to connect to Wayne State's authenticated network infrastructure and the Internet? You have two options. There are public areas around campus where you can plug your computer in as described in this Web page. There also are several areas where you can connect to the University's wireless network.
The advantages of wired access:
Ethernet interface – To use WSU's wired network, you need a laptop computer with an Ethernet interface. Virtually all new laptops have such an interface built-in. If you have an older computer, you can add an Ethernet PC Card. The older name for this interface is PCMCIA and some vendors may still use it.
PC Card slots – The majority of laptops have two PC Card slots on one of their sides. Some, especially ultra-portable (thin) laptops, only come with one slot.
Type III Ethernet PC card – If you need to obtain an Ethernet card to add to your laptop, we recommend a Type III card that takes both of the PC Card slots. The advantage to the Type III card is that these cards have built-in network cable jacks and do away with dongles that you can lose or pop-out connectors that can break. The disadvantage is that you can't use your PC card slots for anything else. For instance, you might want to insert your digital camera media via a PC Card Adapter.
Type II Ethernet PC card – If you need to have one of your PC Card slots free or if your laptop only came with one slot, then you need a Type II Ethernet PC Card.
We recommend Ethernet PC Card adapters by 3Com, Intel and Netgear. The first two are made by industry leaders, are the most compatible, and are sure to provide a robust network signal. Netgear makes cheaper consumer-grade cards that have worked well in our tests.
When you open a connection, you automatically will be prompted to log in using your WSU AccessID and password. This identifies you as a member of the Wayne State University community.
We encourage you to read the University policy on the Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources.
Currently there are labeled jacks in the following areas around campus:
If you have any questions, contact the Computing & Information Technology (C&IT) Help Desk by phone (313) 577-4778 or e-mail helpdesk@wayne.edu.
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Christos Demos, C&IT
