Wireless Network Policies
Endorsed by the Technology Committee effective Fall 2002, updated Fall 2005.
Wireless networks operate in both FCC licensed and FCC unlicensed bands. For the purposes of this document, wireless device(s) are defined as any wireless standards-based system conforming to the current 802.11 a, b, g, or n standards and 802.16 standards or to future wireless standards.
End user components, such as a desktop or laptop wireless card, are considered to be outside the scope of this policy and may be specified and installed at the user’s discretion with respect to the limitations outlined below.
Network Terms and Conditions
ITS does not guarantee compatibility of wireless pc cards and associated software with user-owned hardware and software and is not required to provide support or troubleshooting assistance for resulting incompatibilities. ITS does not guarantee the availability of wireless internet service and reserves the right to terminate, delay, relocate, or otherwise interrupt service at any time. ITS is not liable for damage or loss incurred by the user for any reason, including but not limited to: power failure; disruption of service; physical damage to hardware; hardware or software incompatibilities; loss or corruption of files; unauthorized adjustments to settings, equipment or software; etc.
Wireless Network Usage
To ensure the technical coordination required to provide the best possible wireless network for the University of Michigan – Flint, Information Technology Services (ITS) will be solely responsible for the deployment and management of wireless devices on the campus. No other departments, employees, or students may deploy wireless devices without coordination with ITS. Any wireless devices found to be operating within a UM-Flint-owned structure without the consent of ITS and within a spectrum that conflicts with the UM-Flint Wireless Network may be disconnected and banned from the network. In cases where the device is being used for a specific teaching or research application, ITS will work with the faculty, staff or student to determine whether there are circumstances under which use of the device may still be accommodated without causing interference to other UM-Flint users.
Air Space Policy
Wireless networks operate in both FCC licensed and FCC unlicensed bands. Many communication products operate in these bands, and it is not unusual for one piece of equipment to interfere with another. Such interference causes degraded service quality. UM-Flint’s wireless LAN network is currently based on 802.11b standard specifications, and utilizes the FCC unlicensed 2.4 GHz Industrial/Scientific/Medical (ISM) band. Various other wireless devices also utilize this band and can potentially cause interference. Independent deployment of wireless networks and products by departments or individuals can limit the accessibility and quality of service from issues relating to interference and capacity.
In order to assure the highest level of service for all members of the campus community, potential interference with the wireless network must be minimized. ITS has developed guidelines and recommendations for the use of wireless products on campus, similar to other leading Universities in the wireless networking field.
ITS will monitor use of the airspace for potentially interfering devices, and will notify a user if a device is causing interference and potentially disrupting the campus network. In these cases, ITS reserves the right to restrict the use of all wireless devices in university-owned buildings and outdoor spaces on the campus.
ITS will work with the campus community to assist in phasing out other 2.4/5 GHz devices that are specifically used for digital communications in university-owned buildings. This does not prohibit the use of microwave ovens, security alarms, or other devices such as pacemakers, which make use of the 2.4/5 GHz radio frequencies. In cases where the device is being used for a specific teaching or research application, ITS will work with the individual or department to develop a solution that mitigates any potential interference. If you think you have an existing system that may use 2.4/5 GHz radios for transmission, or you are planning to purchase a wireless system and you are uncertain if it employs 2.4/5 GHz radios, please contact ITS.
For more information, please consult the Wireless Network Support Center.