Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Wireless Network Access?
- Who can use the UNLV Wireless Network?
- What do I need to use this network?
- How do I install my external wireless card?
- How can I get access to UNLV Wireless for the first time?
- Are there other wireless networks on campus?
- I forgot my password. How do I retrieve it?
What is Wireless Network Access?
A wireless network is one in which a mobile user can connect to a local area network (LAN) through a wireless connection.
This wireless technology is commonly called Wi-Fi and locations where it can be used are known as access points or hot spots.
Who can use the UNLV Wireless Network?
This network is available to all University of Nevada, Las Vegas students, faculty, and staff who have a valid UNLV RebelCard.
Full-time UNLV employees may request a temporary wireless account for campus guests by contacting the Faculty & Staff Help Desk at 895-0777 or ithelp@unlv.edu.
What do I need to use this network?
You will need a computer with an IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n wireless LAN network card and web browser.
Many laptops now come with internal wireless cards. If your computer does not have a built-in card, you will need to use an external wireless card.
UNLV Wireless works with many different operating systems. The Help Desks provide support in the following:
- Windows XP, Vista
- Mac OS X.x
How do I install my external wireless card?
Software and instructions are provided with the wireless card that you purchase. Generally you just need to start your laptop and insert the card into a PC card slot (if external). Your laptop should detect the new hardware (the wireless card) and walk you through the process of installing the drivers.
During the installation process, you will need the following information:
- TCP/IP software needs to be set-up to use the 802.11a/b/g/n hardware (this may look like an "Ethernet" device to the system)
- Use DHCP to dynamically obtain a TCP/IP address
- The SSID or network name is UNLV
- Do not use "WEP" encryption for connections to UNLV Wireless Network
How can I get access to UNLV Wireless for the first time?
You will need to be in a location where the UNLV Wireless Network is available.
- Insert external wireless card or turn on internal wireless card and turn on your computer.
- Launch a web browser.
- Your web browser home page will be redirected to the UNLV Wireless Network authentication page.
- Register by clicking on the link to the Account Setup page. You will need your RebelCard in order to complete this process. (Note: There will be a 24-48 hour delay from the time your RebelCard is issued until you may register.)
- You will be prompted to return to the log in page. Please log in with your User Name and password. You are now connected to the UNLV Wireless Network and can use your network applications.
You will be required to log into UNLV Wireless at each use.
Are there other wireless networks on campus?
Some academic departments and business units have implemented their own wireless networks. Check with the IT support group in your unit to see if a wireless network is available for your use.
For security reasons, the UNLV Office of Information Technology recommends not using wireless networks other than UNLV Wireless (SSID UNLV).
Also, consumer-oriented 802.11a/b/g/n access points, sometimes called "base stations" are available from a number of vendors. If you correctly set up such a base station at home, then the same 802.11a/b/g/n card that connects your computer to the UNLV Wireless Network can be used at home.
I forgot my password. How do I retrieve it?
The Help Desks can assist with forgotten UNLV Wireless passwords and configuring your wireless settings.
- Student Help Desk: 895-0761 or studenthelp@unlv.edu
- Faculty & Staff Help Desk: 895-0777 or ithelp@unlv.edu