Wireless Networks
There are wireless networks available all over campus. This makes the wireless networks convenient because you do not need to be plugged in and only need to be on campus to use it.
Here is a list of all the wireless networks on campus:
- drew - unencrypted network, needs no log in information to use
- drew1x - encrypted network, needs log in information to use
- drew5 - unencrypted network, needs no log in information to use, only present in the 5.0 GHz range
- drew5x - encrypted network, needs log in information to use, only present in the 5.0 GHz range
It is important to note a few things about using the wireless network:
- If many people are trying to use wireless in the same area, the connection will be much slower.
- Users may get kicked off if new people log on and begin using wireless in the same area. The number of users and bandwidth are what determine the speed and reliability of the connection.
- Microwaves, cordless phones, and other devices can create interference that can interrupt connections.
- Wireless is not available everywhere on campus and the connection may not be ideal.
Wired (Ethernet) Network
To get a wired connection, use your Ethernet cable to plug into a jack in the wall. Each dorm room has network jacks installed which make it easy to connect your laptop, gaming console, or other device to the network using a network cable. Wired connections are most reliable and consistent. Bandwidth may be more plentiful in certain buildings or rooms on the Drew campus with wired connections. If you are streaming video, playing an online game, or downloading large files, you may want an Ethernet connection.
Checking the Status of Your Connection
On a PC
Wireless Connection
If your computer is lready connected to a wireless network, you will see this icon in the System Tray: PICTURE
Clicking once on the icon will give a list of available networks detected by the computer. It may take a few moments for the computer to detect all networks in the area. Resting the cursor on top of the name of the wireless network will give you a full system status overview. PICTURE
Generally, covered areas will receive a Good or Excellent signal (3 or more bars). You may be able to connect with lesser signals, but it is more likely that the system will disconnect or have slower performance. We cannot guarantee complete reliability in areas with less than Good coverage.
The strength of the wireless signal varies at different points on campus. Wireless access at some sites is much faster; for example, do not be surprised if your connection is slower in the library than it is in your dorm room.