Recommended Wireless Cards
Today, most laptop computers (both PCs and Macs) come with wireless cards already installed. However, for older models, you may need to purchase a wireless card.
The IT Division does not specifically recommend any particular brand of card, model, or vendor. This information is provided solely as a guide to the faculty, staff, and students of the University.
Choosing a Wireless Card
- Major Brands are Best — The IT Division recommends purchasing a major-brand card, such as Netgear, D-Link, Linksys, Belkin, Proxim, or SMC. Other cards may work well also, but keep in mind that every card is different and the IT Division cannot provide support for troubleshooting a particular manufacturer's cards beyond assisting with proper configuration to connect with the University's wireless network.
- Conforms to CardBus/PC Card — Wireless cards conforming to the "PC Card" (also known as "CardBus") or older PCMCIA standard should be compatible with most recent laptops. Check with your laptop manufacturer to make sure you have a PCMCIA or CardBus/PC Card expansion slot on your machine.
- Look for WPA2 — Look for a card that is WPA2 (also referred to as 802.11i) compliant, as these cards are the most recent and have the most up-to-date security capabilities to ensure compatibility with future improvements to the University wireless network.
