CLARIFICATION:  In a previous version of this article, information about older devices’ functionality on the updated network was unclear. Older devices that used older wireless technology than 802.11n can connect and function, but cannot take advantage of the higher speed and security it offers. 

CORRECTIONS: In a previous version of this article, the reason why students may have issues connecting to the Internet was misstated. The updated wireless network does not affect Internet connectivity.  The amount of complaints about difficulties with the network was also misstated. Complaints have not increased compared to previous years.  Information about most students reporting temporary bouts with Air Orange X was misattributed. The Daily Orange regrets these errors.

Air Orange X, Syracuse University’s wireless network, underwent an upgrade this past summer.

The network completed a conversion to use an 802.11n wireless network. The technology uses multiple antennas to improve connectivity and speed, said Christopher Finkle, communications manager for Information Technology and Services. 

Air Orange X is “Syracuse University’s high-speed wireless network (that) provides an encrypted secure connection,” according to the ITS website. ITS is responsible for overseeing wireless networking at SU. 

But like most wireless technology, the new network is still susceptible to interference from other devices like cellphone hotspots, which can cause abrupt disconnections and an inability to browse, Finkle said. 

Unfortunately, some older devices are not configured to use this type of technology. Though older devices can function on the upgraded network, they are unable to take advantage of the higher speed and security the network offers, he said. The new network does not provide a positive or negative effect on older devices.

For some SU students, connecting to the internet can often be a troubling experience.

“There are some days where I have to completely restart my computer’s internal wireless system by going through the help menu,” said Steve Pincus, a sophomore business administration major. “It can be a total nightmare.”

ITS ensures a 100-percent connectivity rate in all residence halls. Air Orange X receives connection in all academic buildings both on and off campus, and every South Campus apartment, according to the website.

South Campus resident Zach Goldberg, a sophomore international relations and policy studies major, has run into trouble with the network at his apartment. He faced little difficulty with Air Orange X last year when he lived in Brewster Hall.

“The connection is much worse on South Campus than in BBB or anywhere else on campus,” Goldberg said. “There are times when my connection goes out every couple minutes, making it virtually impossible to complete my homework.”

Jeremy Philipson, a junior sports management major, lived on South Campus last year. Unlike Goldberg, he recalls no problems with Air Orange X.

“Living on South, I never really had any difficulties connecting or staying connected to the Internet,” Philipson said.

This year, Philipson uses his own network at his off-campus apartment and has enjoyed trouble-free browsing.

“The Internet is better, but it’s also nicer to know that Syracuse isn’t tracking your every move,” he said.

Some of the issues with Air Orange X are problems with devices connecting to the network and not the network itself. Many issues can be resolved with simple, user-friendly tutorials on the ITS website, Finkle said.

Other problems with the network may be a result of rapidly changing technology, as certain devices struggle to keep up with the pace of development.

Published on September 18, 2012 at 1:19 am

Contact Levi: ldstei01@syr.edu