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IMSS  /  Services  /  Wired, Wireless & Remote Access  /  Wireless Network Policies

Wireless Network Policies

Wireless networking is a technology that allows computers and other electronic devices to have network connectivity using radio waves instead of wires. While this opens up new possibilities for mobile connectivity, it must be remembered that the wireless network is an institutional resource made available for the benefit of the Caltech community. The use of all computers, mobile devices, and other wireless devices is subject to the Network Policy Regarding Devices Connected to the Caltech Network and the Institute Policy on Acceptable Use of Electronic Information Resources.

Factors Affecting Network Connectivity

Wireless networks depend on the ability to transmit and receive radio waves which makes them fundamentally different from wired networks. The strength of the radio signal used to establish the network connection is affected by factors such as:

  • A computer's distance from wireless access point
  • A building's construction
  • The materials used in making the building
  • The presence of interference; this includes vegetation and other water sources
  • The number of computers connected to the same access point: all users are sharing the same radio signal unlike a wired Ethernet connection where each user has a distinct connection to the network.

Are you experiencing issues with the Wireless Network?

Wireless networks are intended to provide network connectivity in environments where network wiring is not practical or the users are highly mobile. It is provided to campus users as a convenience to facilitate research and learning. In most cases, wireless is not a substitute for a wired network. If you are having problems with the wired network please do not use the wireless as a substitute, please use the contact information below for assistance:

  • To have wired network problems corrected or additional ports installed - https://help.caltech.edu (request type IMSS-->Network, Wireless & Remote Access-->Other)
  • To request wireless access where it is non-existent or very limited, and you think it should be improved -http://help.caltech.edu (request type IMSS-->Network, Wireless & Remote Access-->Other)

Are you planning a conference and need wireless access for your guests?

If you are sponsoring a conference or meeting where a sizable group of non-Caltech users will want wireless access, you may request, with at least one week advance notice, a temporary conference network by submitting a ticket at http://help.caltech.edu (request type IMSS-->Network, Wireless & Remote Access-->Wireless Conference). If you need wireless coverage for a conference in an area that does not already have coverage, or you need additional coverage, please contact us as soon as possible, but not later than two weeks in advance of the event, to see if we can support your requirements. There may be charges, depending on the support requirements.

Policy Regarding Non-IMSS Access Points and Wireless Routers

Wireless access points and routers are subject to the Network Policy Regarding Devices Connected to the Caltech Network and the Institute Policy on Acceptable Use of Electronic Information Resources as are any devices that are connected to the network. IMSS reserves the right to disconnect any device (wireless or otherwise) that is found to be interfering with the operation of the network.