Wireless access enables you to connect your laptop to the campus network and the Internet from a variety of locations throughout campus without having to plug in a data cable. At the Undergraduate Library, wireless access is available throughout the building. However, you should be aware that wireless access anywhere can be less secure than a wired network. If you want to transmit private information, like a credit card number or your password, make sure that the site is secure (ie, the URL starts with "https" rather than "http").

In order to access the campus wireless network using your laptop, your laptop must either have a built-in wireless networking card that supports the 802.11b wireless networking standard, or you must purchase a wireless networking card that supports the 802.11b wireless networking standard. Alternatively, you may borrow wireless cards from the Undergraduate Library and Davis Library circulation desks. These cards may not leave the building.

If your laptop has a built-in wireless card, there are a few steps you must take before you can connect to the UNC-Chapel Hill wireless network. Your wireless card must be registered and configured properly. There are step-by-step instructions that explain how to do this. Once you are in an area that supports wireless access, you will be ready to get online.

If you are still having trouble connecting to the wireless network, there are several ways ITS can help you:

• call ITS at 962-HELP;
• ask the online chat service;
• visit the ITS Help Desk located in the bottom level of the Undergraduate Library.