The first area on the Edison campus to be designated a Wireless Zone is the Library. An access point in the Library enables all of the Library area, plus a fringe “overflow” area outside the Library. How far from the Library you can maintain a viable connection depends on a number of factors, including distance, interference, number of users and your particular hardware setup.

Next to be enabled will be the Cafeteria/Commons area, bringing Internet connectivity to where students and faculty gather.

As areas of the campus are enabled, look for the Wireless Zone signage. Future expansion will be driven at least in part by demand.

Access points, or “base stations,” are inexpensive enough now that many people are installing them in their homes, especially where running wires would be difficult or expensive. Also, many elementary and high schools are experimenting with wireless networking and mobile computer labs. Businesses and conference centers often have wireless networking available, so if you are visiting with your laptop, you may be able to gain Internet access through their wireless system.