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Frequently Asked QuestionsSecurity and PrivacyWireless technologies are relatively insecure. A number of different technologies utilize the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz communications bands, including: wireless computers, cordless phones, microwave ovens, and Bluetooth. These devices may interfere with wireless LAN connections. It is also possible for Wireless LAN radio signals to be intercepted by unintended receivers.MWireless is the most secure wireless network on campus, available to all U-M faculty, staff and students. All of the data between your laptop and the Access Point is encrypted. Before using MWireless, you will need to download and install software on your laptop. This software will then be used to login to the wireless network with your U-M uniqname and UMICH Kerberos password. MWireless software is based on Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), the most recent standard method to provide security on wireless networks. WPA2 is based on the IEEE 802.11i standard. It uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which provides the strongest level of encryption today. To use MWireless, the wireless device you are using must be able to use WPA2 Enterprise security. Most laptops produced in the last three years should be able to use WPA2 Enterprise. You can check the the Wi-Fi Alliance web site to see if the device in your computer is WPA2 Enterprise certified. UM Wireless Network is an open network. Your password is encrypted during the login process. Once connected, though, your data is not secured unless you are using a secure application such as a VPN or SSL web site. (mail.umich.edu is a secure web site. Look for the lock icon in your web browser to determine the security of the web pages you visit. A closed lock icon indicates the web page is secure.) It is very important to make certain your computer always has the latest anti-virus software and security patches installed. Information about computer security and privacy is available online. Using the software available in on the latest U-M Blue Disc will help increase the security of your UM Wireless Network sessions. The software on the U-M Blue Disc is configured to encrypt your passwords and, in some cases, the software will encrypt the session. The U-M Blue Disc also includes anti-virus software. |