Does your computer have the most recent wireless driver?

Over the break, IT added over 200 data ports throughout the library.  We have attached 3' cables to the ports in the carrels.  PLEASE LEAVE THEM IN PLACE.  If you need an ethernet cable for other purposes, we'll gladly give you one at the Help Desk. 

The Driver Connection

Just like any other peripheral device connected to your computer, your wireless network card uses a driver to communicate with the OS. If the driver is flawed in some way, either a buggy version or a corrupted file, you could very well experience problems with your wireless connection. As such, you should visit the card manufacturer’s Web site and download the most recent driver. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s site or your documentation for specific instructions for removing the old driver and installing the new driver.

Reset PMU/SMC/NVRAM for AirPort card power issues [Useful for: Built-in AirPort hardware not recognized]

When connecting to a wireless network that does not require any encryption (like WCL), make sure you clear the Enable 802.1X on this connection check box on the Authentication tab of either:

Like radio, wireless networks operate on certain specified frequencies. Your wireless card is like a pre-tuned radio that can detect one or two specific frequencies -- 5.5 Ghz (gigahertz) for the 802.11a wireless networking standard, and 2.4 Ghz for the 802.11b and 802.11g wireless networking standards.  WCL's Wireless Network uses only 802.11g (if you have an 802.11a or 802.11b ethernet card, WCL IT provides 802.11g adapters free of charge.  Please go to the Help Desk). 

If you are having a problem connecting or staying connected to the wireless network, please report it using the form on the following webpage:  http://www.wcl.american.edu/technology/wifi_problem.cfm