Network Access by Type

The type of network access you can use depends on your computer's hardware and portability. The pages below describe campus offerings for each of the major network technologies, so that you can decide what to use based upon such factors as what type of networking your system offers and whether you have a large desktop computer or a backpack-sized laptop.

Wireless access

UIUCnet Wireless and Departmental Wireless:
Access to the campus network is available from the hundreds of wireless-enabled locations on campus.

UI Public Wireless:
Fewer locations provide this type of access, but for campus visitors who have not received guest accounts, UI Public Wireless provides a simple way to access email, AIM, and web pages.

(Note: University members with NetIDs and guest account holders should use UIUCnet Wireless, not UI Public Wireless. UIUCnet Wireless is available in many more locations, with fewer restrictions applied.)

High-speed Ethernet access

Campus computer laboratories
Many departments, libraries, and residence halls on campus provide computer labs for University members' use. Hours and support depend on the location.

UIUCnet Walkup
High-speed network access is provided in several buildings around campus for mobile laptop computer users who bring an Ethernet cable to plug in with.

UIUCnet (in most campus facilities)
URHnet and CSHnet (in campus housing facilities)
Campuswide UIUCnet (and its residential affiliates URHnet and CSHnet) are the standard method of high-speed network access for desktop computers in fixed locations.

Other high-speed network access providers
Many companies offer high-speed network access. In combination with the CITES VPN, you can connect to the campus network and identify yourself as a member of the campus community from many locations around the world.

Dialup networking

CITES no longer offers dialup networking to campus. However, some companies do still offer dialup networking services. See Choosing a dialup provider for more information.