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AirUWS-Lite Wireless Network

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AirUWS-Lite wireless network available on all campuses
Using AirUWS-Lite
Minimum specifications required to use AirUWS-Lite
Getting help
Additional information
Feedback
AirUWS-Lite and AirUWS frequently asked questions (FAQ)

AirUWS-Lite - our new wireless network

The original UWS wireless network (AirUWS) was designed and installed in early 2007 with the specific objective of allowing students to connect to the Internet from laptop/notebook computers. UWS has now expanded its wireless service, making it easier to use and more reliable.

To achieve the improved service, a new network, AirUWS-Lite, is now available on all campuses. The most obvious advantage of AirUWS-Lite is the ability to connect a range of devices, not just laptops. Students and staff will be able to connect devices such as smartphones, PDAs, iPhones, iPads and Linux based devices and more. The existing minimum hardware and software specifications will not apply on the new network.

AirUWS-Lite available on all campuses

Student with laptop Using their MyUWSAccount credentials to log in, UWS students and staff on all campuses will now be able to access the Internet wirelessly from a wide variety of devices.

AirUWS-Lite provides wireless zones in key campus locations, ensuring coverage is available where most needed:

libraries
rec rooms
lecture theatres
most tutorial rooms
staff meeting rooms
some outdoor areas

As AirUWS-Lite is fine tuned, this page will be updated. Please bookmark this page and check regularly for updates.

Using AirUWS-Lite

When you’re within a UWS wireless zone, your device will detect any UWS wireless networks available. Connect to AirUWS-Lite and open your web browser to login with your MyUWSAccount credentials.

Note: Initially, AirUWS-Lite will not be available in all student residences and most outdoor areas. A project to extend access to the remaining residences is due for completion in late 2010. The project to extend AirUWS-Lite to outdoor areas currently serviced by AirUWS will commence in 2011. In the meantime, limited access will continue to be available via the older AirUWS network (hardware and software restrictions apply).

Although AirUWS will remain accessible across campus, AirUWS-Lite is recommended for ease of use.

What will I need to access AirUWS-Lite?

A wireless device compatible with 802.11a, 802.11g, or 802.11n standards.
An active MyUWSAccount.
If connecting with a Macintosh computer, you will need administrative user rights to accept the security certificate.

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Getting help

What support is available?

ITS support staff will provide assistance with connecting to AirUWS-Lite, however, due to the large variety of equipment expected to connect, ITS staff may not be able to resolve all connection problems. Please ensure that you have followed the processes in the relevant fact sheet before requesting support.

Students

IT Support Officers, located at the general purpose computer labs on each campus, are the primary source of support for students connecting private devices to AirUWS-Lite. Students may also contact the IT Service Desk for phone based support.

Staff

The primary source of support for staff connecting to AirUWS-Lite is the IT Service Desk.

IT Service Desk

Phone: 02 9852 5111 (ext 5111)
Fax: 02 9678 7191
Email: servicedesk@uws.edu.au
Self service job logging

Fact Sheets

Fact sheets (pdf format) providing information on connecting to AirUWS-Lite with laptops running Windows 7, Windows Vista, MacOS 10.6.4, iPhones and iPads are available on the IT Fact Sheets website. Basic support information, troubleshooting and tips are also available on the AirUWS-Lite and AirUWS support site.

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Minimum specifications required to use AirUWS-Lite

Android and Blackberry devices

At present, standard Android and Blackberry devices are unable to fully connect to AirUWS-Lite due to issues with how they handle proxy settings (both) and security certificates (Blackberry). You may be able to partially connect, but will not have web access through your browser.

UWS does not recommend "hacking" your device to resolve this problem, as you may cause other problems or invalidate your warranty.

Network Hardware

Your wireless hardware must be compatible with the 802.11g or 802.11a wireless standards. The 802.11n standard is not currently supported by AirUWS.

Operating systems

Most recent operating systems should be able to connect to AirUWS-Lite. Windows XP must be running Service Pack 3.

Antivirus

For your own protection and security, antivirus software suitable for your device is strongly recommended.

Web browser

Most current web browsers should work.

Browser settings

Autodetect proxy settings (except Mac OSX). All other fields must be left blank. Any other proxy option will prevent Internet access.
Mac OSX users should configure their proxy settings for automatic proxy configuration and use a PAC file with the URL: http://proxy.uws.edu.au/proxy.pac.

Network TCP/IP settings

Must be set to obtain an IP address automatically (this is normally the default setting).

Keyboard layout

You may need to set your computer to use the US keyboard layout (normally the default setting).

Additional information

What is wireless?

Wireless is simply another method available to staff and students to connect to the UWS network, and from there, the Internet. As its name implies, you don’t need to plug a wire from the back of your device into a network port - freeing you from working in a fixed location. Of course, you’ll still need batteries to supply your power - or a long extension lead!

AirUWS-Lite allows students and staff to use Internet based services with a variety of wireless devices without needing to be physically connected to the network.

How does wireless work?

Wireless relies on radio transmissions to transmit and receive data. The following links may help you understand wireless network technology.

Wikipedia - Wireless LAN (opens in a new window)
Wikipedia - Wireless Access Point (opens in a new window)
Wikipedia - IEEE 802.11 (opens in a new window)
802.11 standard - IEEE Standards Association (opens in a new window)
About.com - Wireless Networks and WiFi Technology (opens in a new window)

These sites should be used as a general guide only, and are not endorsed by UWS.

What’s the benefit to me?

The major benefit to students and staff is Internet access 'anywhere' on campus. Provided you’re in a wireless zone, you can log in with your wireless device and access the Internet without battling red tape. You can access the Internet in many areas that don’t have a traditional network installed, such as campus cafés, the Library, and lecture theatres. You can take advantage of good weather and work outside, or connect during a lecture.

Other benefits will be seen as users become familiar with the capabilities of wireless - for example, students and staff may develop more innovative and flexible approaches to the learning experience.

Project Status

AirUWS-Lite is now available on all main campuses. Access from the remaining student residences will be made available by the end of 2010. Access to outdoor areas will be made available during 2011.

Feedback

If you are using, or have tried to use AirUWS-Lite, we would like your feedback.

Comments regarding setup, instructions, technical issues, IT support, network access and services available, and any suggested improvements should be sent directly to wireless-feedback@uws.edu.au.

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