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Kansas State University

Wireless Security

Wireless (Wi-Fi) networks, by their nature, are less secure than a wired network. They require additional security protections since information is passing over the airwaves where it is susceptible to eavesdropping.

Usage guidelines

  1. K-State's wireless network is restricted to use by K-State students, faculty, staff, and authorized guests.
  2. WEP is required on K-State's wireless network for encryption, so that someone snooping the airwaves cannot intercept your communications. (K-State's WEP settings can only be retrieved with a valid K-State eID.)
  3. Before using wireless in the residence halls, a computer must pass an online security assessment and be registered with Housing and Dining Services.
  4. When using an off-campus wireless network to access K-State's on-campus resources, use of a Virtual Private Network is encouraged. A VPN encrypts all your network traffic to protect it from other off-campus network users who might be snooping the airwaves.
  5. Don't steal your neighbor's wireless connection. Kansas law prohibits unauthorized access to a computer or network. Besides being illegal, connecting to another person's wireless network poses significant risks, including possible identity theft, stealing your credit card numbers, or getting your eID password.

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