Wireless Internet Available on Campus

Staff Writer

   Wireless Internet became available in the Fred J. Taylor Library and Technology Center in early November 2007.  

   According to an e-mail sent Nov. 13, 2007 by the Director of Information Technology Bobby Hoyle, “Wireless access is available in the library for faculty, staff, students and guest.  In order to access wireless service you must have the correct software drivers installed on your computer.  All devices connecting to the campus network must have updated and approved antivirus software installed on the device.”

   With more people investing in laptops, the advantage of wireless Internet allows people to connect to the Internet without the hassle of finding an outlet and hooking up a chord. It will free up library computers, as well as make it more convenient for students.

   According to the Director of the Library Sandra Campbell, discussions about wireless Internet went on for four years.  The delay occurred because of state rules and regulations; they wanted to wait until the state changed its guidelines to buy a system.

   Funding for the project came from the library maintenance operating budget and the university’s general operating budget.

   Hoyle said the biggest problem with connecting to wireless Internet is compatibility and not having the appropriate hardware. The newest technology has difficulty connecting to the older models.  Hoyle said IT can help with this problem and potential users can put in a work order when problems arise.  The technicians will scan the laptops and download the appropriate drivers. Name brands will not pose any problems, but off brands could because of the Network Interface Cards.

   "I think it’s silly that we have to get our laptops scanned, but you can still use them at McDonald's.  It’s not like you’re going to get a virus from wireless Internet,” said Enoch Daniel, first-year music major.

   While some students may not agree with getting their laptops scanned for wireless use on campus, Hoyle said the university does not have a choice.

   “We’re not McDonald's; we’re not trying to do what McDonald's does," Hoyle said. "We’re trying to give students access to campus resources. We’re under mandate by state law to provide some type of log-in.”

   Hoyle said they want wireless Internet for the entire campus. In early summer or late spring, Arkansas Research and Education Optical Network will go online.  This high-speed connection will connect the 11 major Arkansas universities. UAM will be one of the first.

   “We are going to get there; it’s just a matter of time before we get there,” Hoyle said.

   While wireless Internet has been available at other locations on campus, Forestry IT manager Paul Freeman said the benefits of ARE-ON are worth the wait.

   “The possibilities (with ARE-ON) are probably beyond your imagination,” Freeman said.

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