Long Beach City College
LBCC Wireless Hotzones
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   Wireless Hotzones FAQ

Answers to frequently asked questions about the wireless network and Hotspots are here, broken down into the following categories.

General

Usage


What is a wireless LAN?
A wireless LAN provide a way to connect to networks without the use of cables. They use radio frequencies in a deregulated range of radio spectrum (2.4Ghz in two cases, 5Ghz in another) in a specific way to provide this service.

The technical standards for wireless networking equipment are defined by the IEEE and fall within the 802.11 family of standards - these include 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11a. Recognizing that equipment designed by different vendors according to a standard often does not inter operate however, an association was established to promote testing and inter operation of equipment from different suppliers. Equipment that has been through this process is known as 'Wi-Fi' (or 'Wireless Fidelity') compatible.

Wireless networking operates at much slower speeds than conventional wired alternatives - the faster Wi-Fi standard connection available is 54Mbps, which is shared with all users connected to it; when compared to the fastest ethernet connection available.

What do I need to use the Hotzone?
You need a laptop or handheld computer with 'Wi-Fi' capabilities. These can either be built in, or via a separate card or USB peripheral. Hotzone services are compatible with equipment labeled as Wi-Fi compliant with the 802.11b or 802.11g standard. The third type, 802.11a, is not compatible.

Look for the 'Wi-Fi Certified' logo - provided the device you have is marked with the 'b' or 'g' symbols, it will be compatible with the Hotzone service.

Do I need special software to use the Hotzone?
No special software is needed to use the Hotzone services in their simplest mode of operation - just a functioning web browser. When using the Hotzone you should understand the usage guidelines .

Do you support SMTP, FTP or POP ?
We do not support SMTP, FTP or POP

Is the service secure?
No the connection is not secured. We do not recommend that you use credit cards or other sensitive information on the Hotzone. LBCC will not be responsible if your information is captured or stolen.

What can I access once connected?
Once you have connected you will be able to access LBCC Student Services and access the Internet.

I can't see the network. How do I set my SSID?
To ensure you can access the Hotzone service, you must configure your Wi-Fi enabled device to access the Hotzone network. This is done by setting the network identifier - or SSID - in your wireless device to 'LBCC'. Once done, it should be able to connect to the network.

Newer operating systems, including Windows XP and Macintosh OSX can automatically detect which SSIDs are being used in a location and can offer to connect to them. On older operating systems, you may find you have to set the SSID manually.

Instructions on how to set the SSID on your Wi-Fi enabled device will differ, depending on the exact model of wireless network card and the operating system you are using. Refer to your wireless network card documentation for specific instructions on how to configure your device. If you need help locating documentation, you can try looking for information on the Wi-Fi website.

Are there usage guidelines?
Yes there are usage guidelines,
click here for PDF format
click here for Flash format.

 


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