Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. What is required to connect to the Bulldog wireless network?
To connect to the AAMU wireless network you must have:
An 802.11g compatible card or built-in 802.11g wireless adapter in your computer or other device and the associated software for this card. Nearly all modern laptops and desktops come with built-in wireless adapters that are compatible with AAMU's wireless network.
The AAMU SSID, AAMU WIFI, and WEP key must be entered into the wireless client software for your wireless network card. The code can be provided by a residential hall advisor, or contact the ITS helpdesk for the code.
Back to Top - 2. Can a guest connect to the wireless network?
Yes. The department you are visiting should be able to provide you with the code to get on the wireless. Aside from that, the procedure is the same as in question 1 above.
Back to Top - 3. How do I know if I have a wireless card installed?
If you bought your computer within the past five years, it almost certainly has a compatible wireless adapter already. But, if you want to check on that yourself, here's how.
Windows 10 instructions:
» Open up Windows Settings by searching Cortana for settings. (See screenshot of Cortana search for Settings.)
» From Windows Settings, click Network & Internet. (See screenshot of Network & Internet highlighted on the Windows Settings screen.)
» From that screen, click Wi-Fi on the left side, then Hardware Properties. It will show some information about your wireless card (if you have one).Older Windows instructions:
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» Right-click on My Computer either in the Start Menu or on the Desktop.
» From the drop-down menu that appears, select Manage Computer
» In the Computer Management screen, look to the left and left-click on Device Manager. (See screenshot of Computer Management screen with Device Manager highlighted.)
» In the resulting list of devices, find Network Adapters and left-click on the plus symbol to expand that category. It will show both wired and wireless network adapters (if you have them). - 4. I cannot connect to the AAMU wireless network – what should I do?
Make sure your WIFI adapter is on (e.g., not in "airplane mode").
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Make sure your device can detect the AAMU WIFI network.
Contact ITS Servicedesk: 256-372-4357. - 5. How fast is the AAMU wireless network?
The speed of a Wi-Fi wireless network connection depends on several factors. Like most kinds of computer networks, Wi-Fi supports varying levels of performance depending on which technology standards it supports. Each Wi-Fi standard is rated according to its maximum theoretical network bandwidth:
802.11b offered up to 11 megabits per second (Mbps)
802.11a and 802.11g offer up to 54 Mbps
802.11n offers up to 300 MbpsThe performance of Wi-Fi networks practically never approaches these theoretical maximums, however. 802.11b networks, for example, generally operate no faster than about 50% of theoretical peak, around 5.5 Mbps. Likewise, 802.11a and 802.11g networks generally run no faster than 20 Mbps. And even though 802.11n rates at 300 Mbps compared to wired Fast Ethernet at 100 Mbps, the Ethernet connection can often outperform 802.11n Wi-Fi usage.
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6. How do I get a wireless network installed in my office, or building?
Create a work order requesting service. Network support personal will assess your request and recommend a solution to provide connectivity. (Note: the solution may not be a wireless solution.)
Back to Top - 7. Can I install a wireless network or access point myself in my dorm room or office?
No, access points not installed by IT Services are considered to be rogue access points, a potentially very serious security vulnerability. The network is monitored closely, and service to rogue APs will be blocked.
Back to Top - 8. What is better, a wireless or wired connection?
A wired connection is always the better connection. Wireless connections share bandwidth with all devices that connect through the same access point, and as well are subject to wireless signal interference and other factors that degrade performance.
Back to Top - 9. What factors might be affecting the quality of my wireless connection?
The disparity between theoretical and practical Wi-Fi performance comes from network protocol overhead, radio interference, physical obstructions on the line of sight between devices, and decreasing signal strength with distance. In addition, as more devices communicate on the network simultaneously, its performance will also decrease. The closer your device is to the WIFI signal the better your connection will be.
Back to Top - 10. Lost Connectivity to AAMU Wireless – what should I do?
Call ITS Servicedesk at extension 4357. Provide your location (room or office) and contact information to be contacted if necessary.
Back to Top - 11. Can I use a static IP address on the AAMU wireless network?
No, static IP addresses cannot be used.
Back to Top - 12. How do I connect my Amazon Kindle, Alexa, or other Amazon wireless device to the
AAMU network?
Please refer to your owner’s manual. Most devices connect in the same way.
Quick tips: Make sure the device's wireless adapter is turned on. Wireless signals will be detected automatically. You will be required to enter a wireless code to connect (as per question 1 above). The wireless code can be obtained from a Residential Assistant or the ITS Helpdesk.
Back to Top - 13. Whom do I contact for help?
