Last updated: 07/18/2024

Purpose

Duquesne University has and will continue to implement/upgrade wireless services across most areas of the University campus to promote the ease of mobile computing. This service allows all of the University community to gain entry to the campus-wide network from wireless-enabled devices where coverage is available. Any disruption, either accidental or intentional, of the wireless network's airspace may interfere with others' ability to access important University resources.

To offer this service, users of Duquesne University's wireless networks must understand that Computing and Technology Services (CTS) needs to minimize potential interference within its airspace to ensure all users receive reliable performance. Wireless networking is the broadcast form of communication over a radio frequency and, as such, presents a variety of additional issues and security risks that are not present with a wired connection.

Wireless Ethernet utilizes the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ISM unlicensed frequency spectrum. This frequency spectrum occupies the 2.4 GHz and 5GHz radio frequency bands. This type of wireless network is the most common and utilizes the IEEE 802.11bg, 802.11a, 802.11n and 802.11ac DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum) wireless LAN specification. There are other electronic devices (both consumer, scientific, & professional) that operate in the same 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency band and may cause interference or prevent the University wireless network from operating properly. These devices include and are not limited to other IEEE wireless LAN devices (including wireless-enabled printers, wireless routers, hotspot-enabled devices, ad-hoc configured devices, etc.), Bluetooth products, cordless phones and microwave ovens. Students, staff and faculty are encouraged to work with CTS to ensure the highest level of service.

Service Requirements

CTS reserves the right to manage the shared use of the 2.4 and 5 GHz radio spectrum in the same manner as the wired network. For that reason, CTS will regulate the University's airspace to prevent unauthorized access, interference, and or loss of signal. In addition, CTS reserves the right to enhance and adopt new technologies, as they deem necessary.

Furthermore, when connected to any University provided wireless networks users must be in conformance with all policies regarding computing, including all provisions in the University's network service requirements as set forth by CTS. Any student, staff, faculty and guest using wireless devices to connect to any wireless networks provided by the University must understand these regulations, and comply with the guidelines set within those policies.

In addition to the existing network policies, certain unique restrictions apply to wireless devices and are listed below:

  • Only authorized access points provided and installed by CTS are permitted. Personal wireless routers or client machines configured as ADHOC (computer to computer) are NOT permitted. The University reserves the right to remove or disconnect any device that may cause interference or is improperly configured in accordance with University policy.
  • All clients must be configured in such a way as to comply with all security features of the wireless network. It is the responsibility of the user to configure their operating system in such a manner as not to conflict with other services offered over the campus network. CTS will reserve the right to deny connectivity to clients that do not meet the minimum requirements (hardware & software) for authentication.
  • Only users affiliated with Duquesne University are authorized to use the wireless network on campus. Any unauthorized use or abuse of this policy will result in loss of connectivity to all involved parties.