To connect to the wireless network, you will need:

• A WiFi-Certified Adapter. Most laptops and some desktops have these adapters built-in. If your computer does not have one, you will need a USB wireless adapter, available from OIT Hardware Support (A22 LGRC Lowrise) or most computer retailers. OIT recommends Linksys WUSB600N and for Windows XP, Vista, and Linux, and AirPort for Mac OS X.
• Your OIT Account NetID and password. If you cannot remember your NetID, come to OIT Account Management (Room A113, LGRC, M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m.) with your UCard. If you forgot your password, use the Password Help area on the SPIRE Logon page to get a new temporary password.
• Software. To connect to OIT's secure wireless network, UMASS-SECURE1X, you must first configure supplicant software on your computer. OIT provides supplicant software at no cost for Windows computers. Mac OS X users can configure the software built into their operating system.

Note: Laptops typically come with these adapters built-in. Most desktops will need a USB wireless adapter.

• Windows: Go to Control Panel > Network Connections. If a wireless connection (even disabled) appears under your Network Connections, the computer has a built-in wireless adapter.
• Mac OS X: Go to Apple > System Preferences > Network. If AirPort (even disabled), appears under your network options at left, the computer has a built-in wireless adapter.

If you are still not sure, please contact the OIT Help Desk.

Multiple names may appear in your list of available networks, including UMASS-SECURE1X and UMASS. We strongly recommend using the UMASS-SECURE1X SSID (also known as a network name) because your wireless connection will be faster, will have an added layer of security, and your computer will access the network automatically anywhere on campus where there is wireless coverage (no need to log in every time!).

Note: Your computer may list other SSIDs. Please do not connect to a non-UMass network! These interfering networks pose a security risk and slow down the campus network.

Connect to UMASS-SECURE1X

1. Download and configure supplicant software for your computer. Note: Mac OS X computers have this software built into their operating system. Learn more...
2. Choose UMASS-SECURE1X from your list of available networks. Your computer will access the wireless network automatically every time you select this SSID.

Connect to UMASS

1. Open a browser and type in a URL. The Wireless at UMass Amherst Login page will open.
2. Type in your NetID and password. You will be prompted for your OIT Account information every time you select this SSID. Learn more...

Wireless printers interfere with our network and may affect the quality of your wireless connection. We recommend that you purchase a USB printer cable to connect to your printer, or use our remote printing service to print directly to the printers in the Learning Commons. Learn more about printing in OIT Computer Classrooms.

Because this is a pilot testing 'wireless-only' environments, wired Internet access will not be available in Butterfield. You will not be able to use an Ethernet cable to plug your computer into a network jack.

Wireless technology is a "shared" medium, meaning that the more users are connected to an access point, the less bandwidth everyone has to share. The quality of a wireless connection also depends on what each person uses the connection for: emailing, for instance, will take less bandwidth than downloading a large file. Cordless phones, microwaves, and other electrical appliances also affect signal strength. Try connecting from a different location.

For specific troubleshooting tips, check our Wireless F.A.Q.
Note: OIT staff will be available in Butterfield during move-in weekend (September 4 – 7, 2009) to answer your questions and help you set up your computer.

No. Butterfield is the only 'wireless-only' residence hall at this time. Wireless access is available in the North Residential area and many other locations on campus, including all publicly-scheduled classrooms, the W.E.B. Du Bois Library, and all the Dining Commons.
Wireless Coverage Areas

OIT is running this pilot in response to the high demand for wireless service in residential areas. Our goal is to test the feasibility of installing wireless in other residence halls.

We selected Butterfield based on:

• Location: The residence hall had to be isolated from other buildings in order to reduce interference from nearby wireless access points.
• Number of residents: We needed a residence hall with less than 200 residents.
• Academic level: We wanted to offer this opportunity to first-year students. Their feedback will also be indicative of the next generation of UMass Amherst students.

If you encounter problems, submit an online Help Request.
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Contact the OIT Help Desk at 545-9400.