Improve Wireless Access
tips for quality service
There are many factors that can disrupt the quality of wireless service for you and your neighbors, including cordless phones, unauthorized wireless devices, wireless printers, and even microwave ovens. Please use the following tips for optimal service.
Update wireless drivers
Go to our secure wireless page and click on the link to configure your computer for the secure wireless network, which provides a secure, encrypted, wireless connection. Follow all of the steps, which includes a wireless driver update and methods to prioritize your connection to BC wireless.
Don't use unauthorized wireless devices
One major source of interference is unauthorized wireless devices, most commonly wireless routers, as they communicate on the same radio frequency as the BC wireless network. If you require additional Ethernet network ports for wired peripheral devices, you may only use a device that does not include wireless functionality. ITS reserves the right to disable any unauthorized wireless devices that are disrupting service.
If you experience problems connecting to the BC wireless network, use your computer's network connections setting to view all available wireless networks. If you see wireless networks other than BC's official wireless networks (BostonCollege or bcsecure), contact the Help Center at help.center@bc.edu or call 617-552-HELP (4357).
Wireless printers
Wireless printers use significant network bandwidth and interfere with the wireless of others on the network, even while they are idle. For this reason, ITS highly recommends that you use a USB cable to connect your printer to your computer instead of wireless.
If your printer does not have a USB port, learn how to activate your wireless printer on the BC network.
Don't use cordless phones
Use a non-cordless phone or cell phone to prevent wireless interference. Cordless phones operate within the same radio frequency range as the BC wireless network. If a large number of devices operate within this range, the radio frequency band becomes crowded, which results in interference. NOTE: DECT 6.0 cordless phones do not cause interference.
Microwaves
Microwaves can also cause interference with wireless devices. We are not suggesting that you never use your microwave, but most computers that are within 10 feet of an operating microwave will experience slow connections.
Get a new wireless card, if necessary
Different wireless cards access the wireless network at different speeds. Depending on the type of wireless card you have, you will have different performance. The recommended wireless card is 802.11a/g/n. If you have an older card (ex: 802.11 or 802.11b) you may want to consider upgrading to a newer card (802.11a/g/n) to improve your speed on the wireless network.
Need help with your wireless?
ITS is dedicated to providing excellent service. If you require any assistance, please contact the Help Center at help.center@bc.edu or 617-552-HELP (4357).