Wi-Fi Etiquette

Your Wi-Fi devices can interfere with others’ Wi-Fi connectivity.

Wi-Fi networks use a range of publicly available, unlicensed radio frequencies that are shared among numerous types of devices. When many devices use these same frequencies it can degrade Wi-Fi network performance. Many devices have an impact — wireless printers, microwave ovens, cordless phones, wireless audio speakers, wireless clocks, projectors, cameras, and gaming controllers.

By working cooperatively and practicing good Wi-Fi etiquette, NC State network users can help each other get the optimal campus connections we all need. Here’s how:

Choose the right connection for your needs.

NC State offers several options for Wi-Fi: eduroam, ncsu, and ncsu-guest.

Reduce Wi-Fi interference.

• Avoid using any device that can create a personal wireless network.
  This includes things like This type of ad hoc network is created by individual devices that can communicate directly with each other without using a router. We advise that you use NC State’s WolfPrint system instead.
  
• Avoid using a personal Wi-Fi access point.
  While it may be tempting to use a personal hotspot, they interfere with our campus networks and cause problems for other users. If you believe that your situation requires a personal access point, please request assistance from OIT ComTech.
  
• Minimize interference from your other devices.
  Use the table below to learn how your devices impact Wi-Fi and what you can do about it. Usually, a wired connection will perform better than a wireless connection.

Know your personal impact on Wi-Fi.

The following table lists devices commonly used on campus and their impacts on Wi-Fi at various ranges. It also suggests solutions you can implement to reduce your impact. 

Device	Impact	Range	Suggested Solution
Microwave oven	Very Severe	Short	Keep microwave away from wireless devices.
Wireless router	Very Severe	Very Long	Avoid using a personal router.
Wireless camera / projectors	Severe	Very Long	Disable wireless and use a wired connection. For classrooms, please contact your unit’s IT support.
Apple Time Capsule	Severe	Very Long	Disable wireless and use a wired connection.
Wireless media player (i.e. Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast)	Severe	Long	Connect with cable if possible, and only connect through the ncsu (Nomad) network.
Wireless printer	Severe	Medium	Disable wireless and use a wired connection.
Wireless speaker	Severe	Medium	Disable wireless and use a wired connection.
Wireless gaming controller	Severe	Short	Disable wireless and use a wired connection; power off when not in use.
Cordless phone	Severe	Short	Do not use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz cordless phones.
Bluetooth device	Medium	Short	Power off when not in use.
Certain computer monitors	Medium	Short	Power off when not in use.