Information Technologies maintains a centrally managed wireless network based on hardward manufactured by Meru Networks. (
www.merunetworks.com) Students wishing to take advantage of the wireless network should purchase laptops that have built in wireless support for 802.11G or B standards. If adding wireless equipment to your desktop or older laptop, make sure the device supports not only the 802.11 G and B standards but also the operating system your computer is using. Information Technologies recommends better known brands of cards to ensure you can connect and can get support if you need it. Some of the brands recommended: Linksys(Cisco), Netgear, Dlink, 3Com or Orinoco. Vendors offering very inexpensive units are not recommended as these units have not proven to provide uniform connection. Dorms currently offering wireless service include Christie, Dunbar, Jaffery, Moseley and Simpson. Other areas that offer connection are Bailey Library, Boon Center student lounges, the dining commons as well as Boon, Simpson and Hilltop classrooms. Further coverage will follow as budget allows. Students wishing to install dial up, cable or DSL access can still do so in the remaining dorms.
Students residing in the above-mentioned dorms still wishing to purchase cable access or DSL connectivity (Why bother? Nyack's wireless is free) will need to use a wired connection only. Conflicting wireless devices will interfere with uniform coverage for other residents. The college provided system will shut down conflicting wireless gear in order to provide uniform service. The college reserves the right to remove conflicting equipment without notice.
Currently the wireless system is an open system, making connecting to it simple. By using the wireless network, users agree to take responsibility for issues that might arise from their transmissions being monitored by others.
Due to the number and complexity of configurations of personally owned computer systems, the Nyack College Information Technologies Department is not staffed to deal with student owned computer problems. There is a tremendous amount of help available online from both your wireless device manuacturer and computer retailer at their respective web sites. The email stations in Boon and Christie lounges as well as labs and the Library provide access to that online information. Those students requiring further help can purchase online help 24 hours a day from geeksbyminute.com (http://www.geeksbyminute.com/). There is also a "Geeksquad" service counter in Best Buy, located at the Palisades Shopping center, minutes from the college.
©2011 Nyack College and Alliance Theological Seminary
