About WHOI's Wireless Networks

Once you have registered, you will find there are two WHOI wireless networks available for use. The preferred network Atlantic is more secure because it requires using the Cisco VPN. An alternative network Pacific is available for computers which are not configured for use with the VPN. Of the two networks, Atlantic is easier to configure.

Atlantic

This wireless network is a secure network that always requires you to establish a VPN connection to get service. It does not uses wireless security methods but instead relies upon the high level of security and encryption provided by the VPN. The SSID (Atlantic) is broadcast, so most computers with wireless cards will find this network automatically if they are in range of an access point. No WEP key is required. Once connected to an access point, run your Cisco VPN client to access the Internet and WHOInet.

If you are not currently using a VPN client but would like to, please see the CIS pages on VPN accounts and software.

Pacific

The second wireless network, Pacific, provides a moderate level of security. Because wireless network connections at this time are inherently less secure than wired ones, this wireless network does NOT offer unrestricted access to WHOI computing resources. Connecting to this wireless network will give you access equivalent to that of an external connection, that is, the same as an iPass or RAS dialup connection or a connection from another organization's network. Establishing a VPN connection after getting the wireless connection will give you full access just as it does with other external connection methods.

To use this wireless network you will need to enter the network identifier (SSID) Pacific and the security key (WEP key) that was sent to you via Email when you registered.

Please note: The exact procedure of configuring for wireless access varies depending upon operating system and manufacturer of the wireless interface card. If you are already familiar with the process of entering SSIDs and WEP keys on your computer, then follow the procedures that have worked for you. We have written a configuration page documenting an example of what we have seen - we hope it will help.