Wi-Fi Is Not Intended for Desktop Computers
CU Secure Wi-Fi is not intended to replace wired jacks on campus. A campus data jack with a dedicated connection to the campus network is the fastest, most reliable and most secure communication channel for desktop computers.
Wireless signals can be affected by environmental factors, such as heavy furniture or concrete walls, as well as interference from 2.4 and 5 GHz phones, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices and wireless game controllers. Wireless service is also shared with other users and so is inherently less secure than wired connections.
Note: Whenever sensitive data is transmitted over a wireless connection, use a VPN for secure data transmission.
Wi-Fi in Administrative & Academic Buildings
- Per the Wireless Deployment and Management Policy, setting up wireless 802.11 access points without coordination with OIT is prohibited.
- OIT is responsible for coordinating wireless local area network (WLAN) hardware across the CU Boulder campus to ensure optimal network coverage, secure access, and general network stability. Wireless technology is highly sensitive to overlapping frequencies. In addition, access points can act as routers or DHCP servers if configured incorrectly, which can disrupt service to other network users. For these reasons, OIT is charged with managing wireless technology on campus in a centralized fashion to ensure functionality, maximum bandwidth, and security.
- OIT has installed wireless access points in many locations on campus paid for with student funding. In other locations, departments have provided funding for OIT to install permanent wireless networks in their areas that broadcast CU Secure, eduroam and CU Guest.
- If you have already set up a wireless access point, it is important to contact OIT, because incorrectly configured access points can disrupt network services for many other campus network users. OIT will work with the access point owner to determine if it interferes with other wired and wireless networks.
- Contact the IT Service Center (303-735-4357 or oithelp@colorado.edu) for more information.
Wi-Fi in Residence Halls
All Main Campus residence halls have wireless access points that broadcast CU Secure, CU Guest and eduroam Wi-Fi. Setting up personal Wi-Fi access points or Wi-Fi routers is strictly prohibited.
