Wireless Without VPN — Switch Today

NUIT encourages all campus wireless users to switch to the more convenient wireless network, named "Northwestern." Many users are currently using the legacy network, named "nuwlan."

The new network was made available in the summer of 2006 and provides wireless access without a VPN login. The upgraded "Northwestern" wireless network allows more quick, and automatic connections.

Starting September 1, the network "nuwlan" will no longer appear as an available network except for the Norris University Center and some areas of Kellogg.

In addition, if your computer is unable to connect to "Northwestern" due to hardware limitations, you will still be able to configure to connect with "nuwlan".

Users can take advantage of convenient features of the upgraded "Nortwestern" wireless network, including quicker access without a VPN login.

It is easy to move a connection from the "nuwlan" to "Northwestern" wireless network — just follow the set up instructions on the NUIT Web site.

For Macintonsh laptops and Vista-based PCs, connection to "Northwestern" is seamless when you search for available networks.

For Windows XP-based laptops, NUIT provides a wireless cofiguration wizard to set up your computer automatically.

To successfully connect to "Northwestern," your laptop must comply with the network's updated technical standards, 802.1X and WPA2. These standards provide more efficient security for network connections, data, and access control.

If the instructions listed above do not allow you to successfully connect to "Northwestern," check with your laptop vendor to check its compatibility with 802.1X/WPA2.

• eCommunicator Spring 2007
• "Northwestern" wireless network set up instructions
• NU Campus Wireless Network Upgraded for User Convenience

NUIT Support Center

Central helpdesk for faculty, staff, and students.
847-491-HELP (4357)
consultant@northwestern.edu