Wireless (Spring 2010 Student Survey)

There were numerous comments about the quantity, reliability, and usability of the wireless network. In particular, when asked, “In your opinion, how would you most like to see technology-related services improve at VCU in the next two years?” wireless was overwhelmingly the most frequently mentioned.

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At the time of this survey, 894 wireless access points (10 of which were the ‘N’ standard) across both campuses. Central funding has not been provided for wireless. Funding to implement wireless access points comes from individual schools, departments, student technology fees, and residence halls from the communications fees. The current budget climate will severely limit our ability to expand wireless coverage significantly.
- Modest expansion implementing the wireless “N” standard in targeted areas will be done as funding permits.
  - Update October 2010: Additional wireless access points have been installed so that there are now about 1000 wireless access points, 170 of which are the ‘N’ standard, across both campuses. These additions and replacements were primarily made in Cabell Library, Health Sciences Library (Skull & Bones Column), Student Commons, Larrick, Harris Hall, and the School of Nursing.
  - Update February 2011: Additional wireless access points have been installed so that there are now about 1100, 220 of which are the ‘N’ standard, across both campuses. These additions and replacements were made in the Temple Building, Medical Sciences Building, the President’s House, and several smaller installations.
Simplify and enhance the secure wireless network, VCU SafeNet Wireless.
- Update October 2010: A downloadable wireless client is now available, enabling any computer to connect to VCU SafeNet Wireless.
Implement guest wireless access so that it is quick and straightforward for visitors to the VCU campus to obtain Internet access.
- Update February 2011: Developed plan to have open guest wireless - meaning authentication to get on the VCU guest wireless network would not be required. This guest network is intended for visitors only and not for use by faculty, staff, or students—implementation expected in April 2011.
Work with Student Affairs to develop a plan to better support the networking needs of the residence halls.
- Update February 2011: Currently working with Student Affairs to upgrade wireless in all the residence halls. It is expected that these upgrades will start in late Spring 2011

This article was updated: 02/17/2021